Bridal Shower opinions

We had a wedding shower, and we insisted it was co-ed. We still had the silly games, but mostly it was hanging out with people, which we really enjoyed.

However.

If you *really* don't want one, you don't have to have one! As suggested, you could switch it to a bridal luncheon. Or you could talk with your FSILs and explain why you are uncomfortable.

Please don't do things you don't want to do.

I think Melle's suggestion of a smaller luncheon is a great alternative! Then you wouldn't have the games issue.

We've been living together for years at this point, so we don't need household items. Instead, my mom is throwing me a lingerie shower.

"For those that chose not to have one, do you regret it? Why did you choose not to have one?"

I didn't have one because I didn't want one and I absolutely do not regret it. I chose not to have one because I have never enjoyed attending showers, I don't understand parties that are just for gifts (I didn't want gifts), and to me, they don't add anything to the wedding experience. The wedding itself is sufficient celebration.

And for the record, it's absolutely fine to say "thanks, but no thanks" to your FSILs' offer of a party you don't want.

You are the bride-to-be, so if you don't want a shower, don't have one. I personally am not a fan of showers and never wanted a bridal shower myself. Having to open gifts and have genuine reactions to them while everyone is watching is not fun for me. I don't even like opening Christmas or birthday gifts in front of groups of people. I have zero problem speaking in front of crowds or presenting to an audience, but I don't like being doted on if that makes sense.

We're doing a minimony this weekend on our original date and some coworkers put together a basket for me and gave it to me at the end of a meeting, so I sort of had a super mini virtual shower. It was so sweet of them and I really loved what was in my basket - champagne, fresh flowers, a gift certificate to a florist that is making me a last minute bridal bouquet - but it still felt a bit awkward for me. It did really brighten my day, but if I had to endure hours of being "showered" I don't think I would enjoy it.

It totally is fine if you don't want a shower, and it absolutely makes sense that you wouldn't want one if those closest to you would not be able to participate. You don't have to do any of the "pre-wedding" parties if you don't want, and if you don't want them you won't feel like you missed out on not having them. Don't let other people tell you what you should or shouldn't want and trust your own judgement when it comes to what you are comfortable with. It's 100% totally okay not to have a shower and not to replace it with any other activity if that is what you want.

I think that you should appreciate them wanting to do something special for you. It's their way of showing acceptance of you and welcoming you to their family. You don't have to do the bridal games. It can just be something quick a brunch/ lunch. The purpose is to shower the bride with gifts and advice for a healthy relationship. I would allow them to do it. Just be strict that you want something quick 3 hours- brunch/lunch.

look at the glass half full.