What's the difference between a bridal shower and bachelorette party?

A bridal shower and a bachelorette party are two of the most-awaited events in the build-up to the big day. With each of the two being an occasion that’s not to be missed, one might be mistaken to think that there isn’t much difference between the two. To begin with, there’s a reason why each of them is celebrated with their unique attire, guest list, and theme, amongst others. There’s every reason to attend both, and the reasons mentioned below are exactly why. 

Reasons to celebrate

Held during the day, a bridal shower is a traditional event held to celebrate the bride and, of course, ‘shower’ her with gifts and good wishes in preparation for married life. On the other hand, a bachelorette party is exactly what the name suggests—a party where the bride squad lets loose and paints the town red (well, not literally) once the sun goes down to celebrate the bride’s last few days of being single.

The host of these events

Tradition calls for the mother of the bride or groom to plan a bridal shower. On the other hand, the maid of honour/bridesmaids are the designated party planners for the bachelorette. In both cases, the roles and responsibilities are the same with respect to finding a venue and deciding the theme and food and drink menu. 

Who ends up attending

The bridal shower guest list usually includes close friends, relatives, and family, while the bachelorette party is for the maid of honour and bridesmaids. There’s no rule as such of only inviting one gender to the bridal shower; you can call people who are close to both you and your future spouse. That said, with it still being a private event, choose to call those who have been part of your relationship, watched it blossom, and can’t wait for the two of you to get married. 

When are both events held?

There’s no preferred order, as you might want to go throw your bachelorette party in another city or country and have to book things accordingly. Whatever you do, just ensure that there’s enough gap between the two events, as you’d want to feel relaxed, special, and pampered at both of them. Even more reason for saying this considering there will be a select few who will be seen at both events. 

Where are both events held?

A bridal shower sees a lot of gifts being given to the bride, which is why it is practical to keep it at a place with enough space to keep and store them. What better than the home of the host (which is usually the bride’s home)? You could also opt for a restaurant, cafe, or hotel. On the other hand, you’d want a bachelorette to be held in a hotel room, suite, or a private villa since you’ll be doing a lot of activities that might not be age-appropriate and would only want your inner friend circle to witness.

Vibe and attire

A bachelorette is all about the party atmosphere and being anything but formal (what happens at the bachelorette party stays there). Things are loud as there’s a whole lot of music, laughter, alcohol (if you’re drinking), and activities. On the other hand, a bridal shower is more traditional yet informal and relaxed; it’s kind of like a get-together. It could be done in a garden, or over brunch, or later in the day over a tea party. 

The games that are played

One reason why bachelor parties are remembered is for the games that are played over the course of the event/few days. It could be a game over an adventure or something more risqué considering you’re with friends who know every deep and dark secret of yours. On the contrary, you can play simple games such as bridal bingo, this or that, the shoe game, drink if, wedding-themed Pictionary, and a treasure hunt, amongst others. 

What gifts are given?

You can give gifts at a bachelorette party, but it’s more prevalent to do so at a bridal shower. You could give the to-be-bride home decor, skincare, beauty products, chocolates, wine, etc. With a bridal shower being an event that prepares her for married life, you could gift them something that caters to their needs and preferences. That said, don’t gift something that you’d end up giving at their wedding. It should be a gift that’s very thoughtful and practical. 

Lead image: Pexels

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