Bridal shower

Honestly, i do think it's tacky. It's incredible that you made it 22 years of marriage! But an event where the whole purpose is to bring you presents to start married life with, especially as a type of consolation for not being able to attend the "Wedding" just feels kind of icky. Maybe do a bridal brunch or tea? A get together for your close female friends and relatives without the gifts?

I have to agree with the PP- this would be in bad taste. Showers are for those just getting married and starting a life together - not for an established married couple of 22 years. This is going to come off as “gift grabby”. Also, you never invite anyone to a shower that isn’t also invited to the wedding.

If I were invited to a "bridal shower" for someone who was married for 22 years, I would be so confused. I would also wonder why the party you are planning to celebrate your 22nd anniversary wouldn't be enough for you. One big celebration with everyone you want to celebrate your milestone is great, fantastic, appropriate...and plenty. Don't confuse everyone with extra parties that don't make any sense.

I would think it's weird to be invited to a shower for what is in essence a vow renewal. Doesn't take away from your event, but things like showers and bachelorettes will seem odd to at least some of your guests.

What an amazing story!!! You deserve to have anything your desire. 20 years ago you navigated the naysayers. Why stop now? Go for it!!

I think my biggest question is what would you even need? Engaged couples who lived together already have a hard time figuring out stuff on their wedding registry, I would definitely be confused as to what more you would need after 22 years of marriage.

Maybe a casual bridal lunch where no gifts are expected would be more appropriate. I would also be confused to be invited to a shower for someone already married 22 years.

Also, can you clarify on “the people that can’t go”? A bridal shower is really supposed to be for any guests that are actually invited to the wedding, so if the idea is to have this shower for everyone that is NOT invited to the destination wedding, that would definitely come off as hurtful as they’re being asked to give you gifts, but they weren’t worthy to make the guest list. For any pre-wedding events, only those who are actually on the wedding guest list are supposed to be invited.