Just like the modern shower, today's bridal shower invitations can range from extremely casual to formal. And there's as much potential for creativity with the invitations as you have time and inclination for. The main thing to keep in mind is that the invitation should be a reflection of the bride's tastes, and, of course, the party itself.
Your first task should be to sit down with the bride and help her put together a list of people to invite. While a phone call or online invitation is perfectly fine for a casual shower involving just a close group of friends, a paper invitation should be used if the guest list goes beyond your immediate circle.
Professionally printed invitations are the most formal choice—and often the most expensive. Visit an upscale paper shop or wedding invitation printer for the highest-quality printed invitations. Or, hit the shops for inspiration, then save money by using one of the many Internet-based printers to do the job. Just make sure you allow extra time for shipping for invitations ordered online, and be as specific and detail-oriented in your order as possible. Printed invitations are usually made in the bride's chosen wedding colors, so have this information handy. The cards should also reflect the theme of the shower—for example, playful and sexy for a lingerie shower, or sleek and fresh for a spa day.
Alternatively, you can choose to make your own bridal shower invitations. While this will take time, handmade invitations are a fantastic keepsake for the bride. These cards, too, can be as casual or as formal as you like. You can start with blank designer invitation sets (many come in a variety of colors and special designs, with lined or foiled envelopes). Hand-letter the invitations in calligraphy or just print clearly. Or, save yourself the wrist cramps and design a rubber stamp with all the event invitation (most print shops can get these made inexpensively if you supply them with a text document of the design).
Whatever approach you choose, be sure your bridal shower invitation covers the basics. Make sure to include the bride's name, the time and date of the shower, the address of the soiree, and your name and phone number for the RSVP's. Guests will appreciate clues on what type of gift to bring, and knowing whether there's a registry. Get the invitations in the mail at least two weeks prior to the shower, and assume anyone you haven't gotten an RSVP from will be there. And enjoy showering the bride with the same love and attention as you've put into the event!
Learn more about how to throw a bridal shower - or, if you're looking ahead, learn how to make perfect wedding invitations.
