Bridal Shower Changed in Recent Years

Showers can be held closer or farther from the wedding, depending on what is convenient for the bride and hostess. Who throws the bridal shower is another factor that has changed; generally, it is the maid of honor with help from the bridesmaids. Nowadays, however, anyone who wants to host a shower can, with one exception: members of the bride's immediate family.

Wedding showers usually last about two hours, but again, this can vary depending on the type of shower you plan on giving. The time at the shower can be broken down any number of ways, but the basic format usually includes the following components:

• Arrival and introduction of guests
• Bridal shower games
• Lunch/tea/brunch
• Opening of gifts
• Cutting and serving of cake 

Wedding shower games are a great way for guests to interact. Don't wait for everyone to show up. Late arrivals can join in on the next game. Allow time for two games but have a third one ready to go just in case you breeze through the first two.