Why a bridal shower should be a surprise full of gifts

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It is a norm and normal to celebrate a bridal shower for the bride a month, weeks or days before the D-day.

Relationship experts advise that a bridal shower is meant to act as a precursor to the main event.

Ann Baligasima, the CEO of Cantana Events Management, says in most cases, it should be a surprise party for the bride organised by close friends who later involve the family and at times the groom-to-be.

“We usually advise the organisers to keep the groom out of the bridal shower because it is supposed to prepare the bride for marriage, especially bedroom affairs, which are not meant to be known by the groom,” she says, explaining that it is basically a Senga session. The people who organise it should be close to the bride.

Who hosts the bridal shower?

Judith Babirye, a relationship advisor, says traditionally, the maid of honour or bridesmaids host the bridal shower, but anyone close to the bride can take on this role.

“It very unethical and inconsiderate for the bride’s immediate family members to organise a bridal shower,” she says.

Gift-Giving Etiquette

Guests of the bridal shower are expected to bring gifts for the bride, which can include household items, personal accessories and cash. It is important for guests to consider the bride's preferences and needs when selecting gifts.

“Before you buy a gift for the bride, however close you may be, try to find out her preference and stick to it,” Margaret Kagimu, the deputy chief executive officer of Tem Fashion Wear.

Kagimu adds that it is best to gift money, gift vouchers in case one is not sure of what the bride likes.

Babirye advises events organisers to plan the event with the bride's preferences in mind, including the theme, location, and activities. If other service providers are involved in the organisation, they should communicate early enough to avoid duplicating gifts and other arrangements.

 They should also communicate with other hosts if multiple people are involved in planning to avoid duplication of guests and gifts.