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When planning the festivities leading up to your wedding day there are no right or wrong answer; only what is right for you. Like many modern couples, you may be hearing more about Jack-and-Jill Showers taking place instead of the traditional Bridal Shower. Matthew and I actually opted for the later, but as I guest I have enjoyed many a fun bridal shower.
So what is a Jack-and-Jill Shower?
Bridal showers have traditionally been ladies only, typically hosted by the mother-of-the-bride or her Maid-of-honor. They were parties designed for guests to present the bride with gifts that she would need for her marriage to take care of her new house and husband; gifts usually consisted of cookware, dishes, linens, supplies for hosting family dinners, cleaning supplies, and appliances for the home. Ladies have a whole lot more power these days and because most couples now live together before marriage, they usually need less because they already own the necessities. So instead, many couples are opting for co-ed parties (that is where the Jack-and-Jill gets it’s name) that honor both the bride and the groom, instead of only the bride. Couples still receive gifts, but most gifts are now geared toward the couple, what they really need, or cash for honeymoon or wedding expenses. These parties are usually a fun way for the couple to enjoy time with close family and friends before the big day.
So is the Bridal Shower Antiquated?
Perhaps the traditional purpose of the Bridal Shower is no longer relevant (for good reason), but that doesn’t mean you cannot have a Bridal Shower if you would prefer a ladies-only event. There are still many reasons why you may still want a traditional Shower. Perhaps you feel it is a right of passage, it is nostalgic for you or a parent, you are looking forward to the silly games like a toilet paper dress making competition, you’re looking for something a little fancier, a family member really wants to host one in your honor, or you’re craving a ladies-only party. Got for it!
Traditional guests not happy with the Jack-and-Jill idea?
You may face some questions, but most people are just curious. Many older relatives may think it is odd to have a co-ed party or they simply have never heard of one before. Educate them to why you would prefer to celebrate together. Jack-and-Jill Showers are typically less formal so perhaps you want one because you don’t like the idea of a formal party. You can even make your Jack-and-Jill formal if you want to. These days there really are no rules to follow, you get to create your own.
Ask your partner. Maybe they would feel left out if you did a Bridal Shower without the groom, or perhaps they would rather avoid another party they have to help plan.
No matter what you decide, make the choice that you want. You’ll be so much happier when you get to do what you truly want to.
