Shower Invites: Matching Wedding Colors, Good Or Bad?

There are differing opinions on whether bridal shower invites should match the wedding colors. Some people believe that it is proper etiquette to use the bride's wedding colors on the shower invites. However, others believe that the colors of the invites do not have to match the wedding colors and that it is more important to ensure that the formality of the invites matches the level of formality of the event. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference, and there is no requirement that the invites must match the wedding colors.

The importance of matching colours

Matching colours is important for a number of reasons. Firstly, it creates a cohesive look for your wedding. From the invitations to the wedding decor, a consistent colour scheme helps to tie all the elements of your special day together. This doesn't mean that everything has to be exactly the same shade, but choosing a few complementary colours and using them throughout your wedding stationery and decor will give your celebration a polished and well-planned feel.

Secondly, matching colours on your wedding invitations can be a great way to give your guests a hint about the level of formality of your wedding. For example, if you're having a black-tie wedding, you might choose elegant black and white invitations with a touch of gold or silver. This will give your guests an idea of the dress code and the overall tone of your wedding.

Another reason to match colours is simply because it looks good! Choosing a colour scheme that you love and incorporating it into your invitations, decor, and even your bridal party's attire can make for some stunning photos and create a beautiful atmosphere on your big day.

Finally, matching colours can be a fun way to get creative and put your personal stamp on your wedding. Whether you choose a bold and vibrant palette or a soft and romantic one, your colour choices will help set the mood and reflect your unique style as a couple.

While matching colours is not a requirement, it can definitely enhance the overall look and feel of your wedding. So, if you've found invitations that you love that happen to match your wedding colours, go for it! But if you're not quite sure about your colour scheme yet, don't stress. Focus on finding invitations that you love, and don't be afraid to get creative and add your own personal touch.

The role of the host

The host of a bridal shower has many responsibilities, both big and small. Here is a detailed breakdown of the role of the host:

Planning and Preparation

The host is responsible for creating a timeline and checklist to ensure everything runs smoothly. They should start planning several weeks in advance and oversee all the arrangements, both large and small. This includes planning the meal, games or activities, and decorations. The host should also decide on a theme for the bridal shower and coordinate it with the bride's wedding colours if desired.

Guest List and Invitations

The host should work with the bride to finalise the guest list, ensuring that all important people in the bride's life are included. The host is also responsible for sending out invitations, ideally six to eight weeks before the shower. Invitations should include the date, time, location, host's name and contact information for RSVPs, as well as any special instructions such as dress code or gifts.

Day-of Management

On the day of the bridal shower, the host should greet guests as they arrive, make sure everyone is comfortable, and facilitate introductions. They should also be on hand to help the bride with any last-minute needs or requests. The host will also typically give a speech, thanking the guests for attending and wishing the bride well.

Gifts

The host will often help collect gifts and assist the bride in opening them. They will also keep track of who gave which gift to facilitate the sending of thank-you notes.

Clean-up

The host will usually stay until the end of the bridal shower to help with any clean-up or breakdown of decorations.

Financial Responsibility

Traditionally, the bridal shower is hosted and paid for by the maid of honour. However, the entire bridal party should be involved in the planning and celebration. Each person can have a delegated task, and often the mother of the bride helps with finances.

The guest list

Ultimately, the host of the bridal shower, in collaboration with the guest(s) of honour, has the final say on who to invite. However, it is important to remember that everyone invited to the bridal shower should also be invited to the wedding. If the guest list is extensive, consider hosting multiple showers to accommodate different groups of guests in various locations.

The size of the guest list will depend on the venue capacity. A sweet spot for the number of guests is between 30 and 40 people, understanding that not everyone invited may be able to attend. If renting a venue, check the guest capacity to ensure it can accommodate your desired number of guests. If hosting at home, take into account the number of chairs, tables, plates, and other party items available or budget for additional rentals if needed.

When creating the guest list, it is essential to consult with the bride to ensure no one is missed and that only desired guests are included. It is also a good idea to get the couple's approval on the final guest list before sending out invitations, unless they specifically request to be surprised.

Timing

The best time to send out bridal shower invitations is between four and eight weeks before the event. This gives guests enough time to book their calendars and find a gift, while also giving the host time to prepare for the final headcount. The six-week mark is a widely accepted sweet spot, with an RSVP deadline of at least two to three weeks before the event.

If you have out-of-town guests, it is considered good etiquette to send invitations at least two months in advance. This will give them enough time to organise travel and accommodation. It is also good etiquette to give a heads-up to overseas guests by calling or emailing them with the details.

If you are sending paper invitations, it is recommended to start the process earlier than you think. This will give you enough time to design, print, and send the invitations.

The host should provide their contact details on the bridal shower invites, instructing guests to RSVP by a certain date (at least two weeks before the event is recommended).

The level of formality

The bridal shower invites should also match the level of formality of the bridal shower itself. For example, if the bridal shower is a classic tea party, a backyard barbecue, or a fancy brunch, the invites should reflect this.

Bridal shower invites do not need to be overly formal. In fact, they are generally less formal than wedding invites. There is no need to go overboard with fancy calligraphy or hand lettering unless you want to. It is perfectly acceptable to opt for printable invites or order themed invites online, as long as they include all the necessary details.

The most important details to include are the date, time, location, name of the guest(s) of honour, event type, and host's name and contact information for RSVPs. It is also proper to include the bride's wedding colours on the shower invites. Other details such as the theme, dress code, and special requests can also be included.

It is worth noting that the bridal shower invites do not have to match the wedding colours. While it is ideal for them to match, it is not a requirement. If you are unable to find invites that match your colours, you can opt for invites in metallics like gold or silver, or simple black and white palettes. You can also choose very minimalist, simple styles of invites that go with everything.

Frequently asked questions