Couples' showers are a fun alternative to the traditional bridal shower.
A couples' shower is a great way to include the groom and all of the couple's male friends into a traditionally female celebration. People sometimes call a couples' shower a co-ed or Jack-and-Jill shower. Instead of a formal, girlie celebration, a couples' shower is a relaxed, casual affair. What was once considered a strange shower idea that strayed too far from tradition is an acceptable option today. Does this Spark an idea?
Planning
Before you begin planning, be sure a couples' shower is something the bride and groom want to do. It is, after all, their special day and you want to be sure they are comfortable with your plans. Since men and women will be invited, feel free to involve the groomsmen in the party planning. It is appropriate for all of the shower planners to divide the costs equally. Be sure the groomsmen understand this ahead of time.
Invitations
Be clear on the invitation that men are invited to the shower too. Couples' shower invitations are available, but if you choose a traditional bridal shower invitation, write something inside stating that couples are invited. For single friends, be sure to let them know that they are welcome to bring a date.
Themes
Casual themes work best for a couples' shower. The vibe is closer to that of a cocktail party or dinner party, according to The Knot. Consider a picnic in the park, pig roast, cook-out in someone's backyard, pool party or casual restaurant. The menu choices should be simple, such as pizza or hamburgers and hot dogs. You may choose to forgo a meal entirely and serve finger foods and appetizers, according to the Web site Bliss Tree. If the couple enjoys a mutual activity together, such as camping, NASCAR or cooking, create a theme around that.
Games
Play games that include men and women at the couples' shower. Ask the bride and groom a series of questions ahead of time. Read their answers and ask guests to guess if he said it or she said it. See how well the couple knows each other by interviewing each about the other. Ask guests to predict how many questions each one will get right. For a simple game, randomly set a timer while the couple is opening their gifts. When the timer goes off, the person who gave the gift being opened receives a prize. Nix the games altogether if you think that the co-ed crowd would not enjoy them.
Prizes and Favors
Choose unisex prizes for your games, since you won't know if a man or a woman will win them. Some ideas include gift cards for restaurants, bookstores or big box stores like Target or Walmart. Favors should also appeal to men and women. For a fun idea, make personalized candy bars and give each guest an empty container to fill up.
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