So you or loved one is getting hitched and there is so much to do and so much to plan and so little time. The last thing you want on your mind is planning a bridal shower with everything there is to do. Planning a wedding shower can be a lot of fun if you follow some simple rules and try to have fun doing it. Don’t skip the shower, for it is a time to connect with friends and family in joyous celebration as well as giving great gifts to the bride and groom.

The first thing you should do is make up a mock wedding list. This way you have an idea of all of the people and an exact head count for the shower. Don’t worry if you forgot someone, you can always add them later. This is just the first step. You can have an all women shower or a jack and jill shower, which means men are allowed. This is completely a matter of personal preference, but just be aware that adding men means more mouths to feed and more money to pay.

The next thing you want to do is choose a venue. This option is based on the wedding budget. Venues can range from a friends house (cheapest option) to a catering hall (most expensive option). When having the shower at a place of residence, you can have the members of the bridal party cook a meal each. Separate the tasks by person. Be sure to delegate someone in charge of drinks, tableware, desserts, games, favors, and general organization of the event.

Now that you have the guest list and venue worked out, make sure to start a registry for your gifts. Some couples feel uneasy about making a gift list, yet they end up with a load of gifts that are useless to them. Gift registries are already expected when planning a bridal shower. Your guests would rather buy something for you that they know you will like, rather that wondering about your tastes, preferences, etc. Having a gift registry makes it easier for your guest to shop for you, so it is an essential and traditional practice.

Last but not least, try to have fun with your friends and family. Special bridal shower games are a great way to assure that your guests have a great time and are talking about your shower all the way up until the wedding. Another way to make a lasting impact on your guests is to give them beautiful bridal shower favors. They deserve a nice thank you for attending your bridal shower and giving you a gift. Try to make them match with the theme or colors of your wedding so they have a real lasting impact. Whatever you decide to do for your bridal shower, remember that it should be a time of celebration and fun to welcome the union of two people. Whether in a backyard or fancy restaurant, the fellowship of family and friends is what will make your bridal shower one to remember.