Your Go-To Guide to Pre-Wedding Parties

Engagement Party. (6-months to 1 year before the wedding) Traditionally, the bride's parents host the engagement part six months to one year before the celebration. Both the bride-to-be and groom-to-be are present at the event. Wedding gifts are not required, nor should be expected. The engagement party guest list should include those invited to the wedding, with the exception of intimate destination weddings or elopements.

Bridal Shower or Couple's Shower. (2 weeks plus before wedding) The Maid of Honor and bridesmaids host the bridal or couple's shower. A bridal shower is an intimate affair for close friends and family. Bridal showers occur at least two weeks before the wedding, so register for those wedding gifts! In need of some inspiration? Check out our fresh bridal shower ideas.

Bachelorette Party.  (1 week- night before wedding) The bride's friends and bridesmaids host the bachelorette party. Despite popular belief, it doesn't have to be a salacious, boa-clad night on the town. Her last night as a single woman can be a sedative spa weekend or girls only camping trip. The bridesmaids and Maid of Honor, hosting the event should be conscious of the bride's wishes. They shouldn't invite her annoying mother-in-law or the tell-all co-worker just waiting to reveal the bride's antics to the boss.      

Bridesmaid Gathering. (1 week before wedding) The bridesmaid gathering is a great time for a bride to present those bridesmaid gifts and bond with their closest pals before the Big Day. A bridesmaid gathering can be a low-key bridesmaid luncheon with pizza and beer or as formal as high-tea at the Plaza.  

Rehearsal Dinner.  (1-2 days before wedding) The groom's parents host the rehearsal dinner. During the rehearsal dinner, the bride and groom hand out their bridesmaid gifts and groomsmen gifts (if not done so at the bridesmaid gathering) and thank their parents with a toast. Rehearsal dinners don't have to be elaborate or formal. They can be simple backyard barbecues.

After-Wedding Brunch. (Sunday after the wedding) An after-wedding brunch, though not necessary, is a great way for the newlyweds to say goodbye to out-of-town guests and rehash stories from the previous day. Make the brunch optional and easy, by having it your guests' hotel or hosting an "open-house brunch" with cheese plates and fruit at your parents' place.