party possibilities
April 2008

Finally, it's spring! Warmer temperatures, bright yellow daffodils and ... beautiful weddings! Yes, April through June is a very popular time of year for getting married, which means it is, also, a very popular time for bridal showers.

Currently, I'm working on a very special bridal shower for the niece, and goddaughter, of my client, Kat. Not a traditional shower, this bridal fete is a cocktail party for women only and will feature a wine-tasting to complement the bride's love of wine and ease the pain of a postponed honeymoon to Italy. With the help of a sommelier, guests will sample and learn about a variety of wines, while trying to guess which bottle is Italian.

If you or someone you know is hosting a bridal shower this season, then I invite you to read the article below. This issue of party possibilities focuses on bridal shower themes, my favorite theme ideas for the modern bride, bride and groom, and the second- time-around or older bride. Enjoy, and happy spring!

Bridal Shower Themes

Each 'posh' party begins with an Event Design, which is a creative concept and strategy for incorporating the theme into all of the party elements - invitation, catering, decor, entertainment, etc. - so that collectively, the party is an experience for everyone.

Bridal showers are no exception. Below are some of my favorite themes that inspire my creativity.

Modern Bride
'Some Like It Hot' theme, which is very versatile but I prefer to associate it with the kitchen and make it a truly entertaining event. For this theme, I recommend hiring a personal chef, who can prepare new recipes while demonstrating how to use the bride's new cookware, and serve the guests a wonderful brunch, lunch or dinner. At the end of this interactive party, the bride has confidence to cook, entertain and use her new gifts - and everyone has a great time!

Bride and Groom
'Firsts' theme, to celebrate the many firsts in their marriage - i.e. first night in, first dinner party, first repair project, first breakfast in bed, you get the idea. It's a fun theme that reinforces the couple's union but it, also, gives guests a lot of direction, with room for creativity, when selecting gifts.

Older or Second-Marriage Brides
Typically, this bride (couple) has an established home. Therefore, I often recommend a Patio/Gardening theme.

My absolute new favorite bridal shower theme is "Growing Up with Barbie", which plays out in multiple shades of pink, white daisies, and even a few buff and tanned "Kens" as servers or bartenders. It's such a cute scene and very sentimental; it reminds women of when they adored playing with dolls years and years before.

About posh parties, LLC (SM)

Created for people who enjoy entertaining and celebrating life's special occasions, posh parties, LLC is a full service professional party planning firm.

Services include:
Event Design
Party Planning & Coordination
On-site/Day-of Event Management

for all types of celebrations, such as:
Adult & Children's Birthdays
Anniversaries
Retirement
Baby Showers & Welcome Parties
Bridal Showers & Rehearsal Dinners
Holiday Gatherings
Just-because Cocktail Parties ... and more!

If you are entertaining in the near future, I invite you to contact me to assist in the planning of your special occasion. With over 10 years of professional party planning experience, I make entertaining effortless and enjoyable!

A bridal shower celebration


Ashleigh Dorfman, CSEP
posh parties, LLC
phone: 703.476.6530