Do You Bring Gifts to a Bridal Shower?

You’ve been invited to a bridal shower. Congratulations! It’s an exciting time for the bride-to-be, and you’re honored to be part of her special day. But one question might be lingering in your mind, “Do you bring gifts to a bridal shower?”

What Are Bridal Showers?

According to folktale, the first bridal shower was held in 16th-century Holland. Legend has it that a ‘society’ girl fell in love with a farm boy from a humble background. When the young man expresses his intentions to the girl’s family, her father forbids the marriage. Since the woman’s kin paid a dowry to the man’s family in the medieval era, the girl’s father refused to support the payment. As a result, the community came together and gave gifts to the girl so she could marry her heart’s pick.

Back then, bridal showers were solely a woman’s affair. The aim was to help brides prepare for their new life. Friends and family would “shower” the to-be-wed with donations and good wishes. This ensured the newlyweds had household items and essentials to begin their life together.

Over time, these gatherings have evolved into more elaborate festivities. They’re more than just gift-giving ceremonies. Family and friends come together to shower the bride with love and support.

Some showers are casual get-togethers, while others follow a pre-determined theme. These pre-wedding celebrations are also more inclusive, welcoming guests of all genders — Jack and Jill shower, anyone?

So, Do You Bring Gifts to a Bridal Shower?

Yes, you do. Bringing a gift to the bridal shower is a well-established tradition. It’s an outward sign of your support and excitement for the bride’s future. These thoughtful tokens help her start married life with valuable items and memorable keepsakes.

Top 5 Bridal Shower Gift Ideas

Start brainstorming bridal shower gift ideas as soon as you receive the invitation. These five handy gift suggestions are sure to delight the bride and make her feel special leading up to her big day:

1. The Classic Choices

Traditional bridal gifts of household Items are practical and always appreciated. Think kitchenware and smart home gadgets like coffee makers and AI-powered vacuum cleaners. Linens, such as elegant silk bed sheets and soft bathing robes, are excellent choices. The classic lingerie shower gift also falls in this category. 

2. Personalized Goods

More than 40% of all Millenials and Gen Zs in the U.S. prefer to give personalized gifts as it’s an excellent opportunity to express their thoughtfulness. Monogrammed towels, robes and PJs, custom jewelry with the bride’s initials, a photo album filled with memories or a custom portrait of the couple are heartfelt gifts she will treasure.

3. Handmade Presents

If you’re crafty or on a budget, a DIY gift can be as meaningful as a store-bought one. They offer the personal touch that store-bought items often lack. They show that you’ve put effort into creating something unique — whether it’s a painting, knitted blanket, scrapbook filled with memories or handmade card expressing your well wishes. If you go the DIY route, include elements relevant to the bride to give the gift sentimental value.

4. Experience-Based Gifts

Sometimes, experiences make the best gifts. Consider a gift the bride-to-be can use to create lasting memories. A spa voucher for a day of relaxation before the big event, a wine-tasting tour for an enjoyable outing, a fun cooking class or tickets to a show make ideal experience-based bridal shower gifts.

5. Monetary Tokens

Times are changing, and gift-giving expectations are more flexible. You no longer have to stick to cookware and dinner sets. Offering money gifts during bridal showers is becoming more acceptable and appreciated.

Giving at least 50 dollars is recommended — but the more generous, the better. A good rule of thumb involves following the 20-20-60 rule. It states that you should allocate 20% of your budget to the engagement gift, another 20% to the bridal shower and the elephant 60 goes to the wedding present. You can calculate how much the 20% stands for and present this as a monetary gift.

There are a few situations where money might not be the best choice. If the invitation specifies a no-gift policy or the bride explicitly states she prefers traditional gifts, follow her wishes. Some cultures or families may have specific traditions or preferences regarding money as gifts. So, consider these factors before stashing those bills into an envelope.

Tips for Choosing the Right Bridal Shower Gift

To pick the best gift for the bride-to-be:

• Check the invitation: Do you see a “no gifts” on the invitation? If not, it’s good etiquette to carry a present.
• The bride’s personality: Does she love to cook? Is she a wino? Perhaps she’s a gardening guru. You should tailor your gift to her preferences and hobbies.
• What’s your relationship with the bride-to-be?: The closer you are to the lady of the day, the more personalized the gift should be — because you know her better!
• Consider the theme: Although not a strict prerequisite, it’s best if your gift matches the day’s theme.
• Stick to the registry: If the couple specifies a gift registry, refer to it to narrow your choices. This will ensure you’re gifting something they need or want. 

What About Virtual Bridal Showers?

With family and friends spread all over the globe, don’t be shocked if you’re invited to a virtual bridal shower. Even though the event is held in the digital realm, gift-giving is still essential. If this is the case, ensure you send your present in advance. Coordinate with the host to organize a gift-opening session for a shared experience. Digital gifts like e-gift cards, online subscriptions and virtual experiences are suitable for virtual baby showers.

When Not to Bring a Gift

Exceptions exist where you might not need to bring the bride-to-be a present on her shower:

• When the invitation explicitly states that guests do not bring gifts, respect the bride’s wishes. 
• If you’ve already given a wedding gift, you’re not obligated to bring a gift to the shower. However, close friends and family may be expected to get the bride a token regardless.
• Giving a group gift eliminates the need to buy an individual present.
• You’re saving the best for last. You might have invested in an “all-in-one” present to gift the couple on their wedding day. If this is the case, you can forgo the bridal shower token.

Even when you’re not bringing a tangible gift, your presence and participation are the best presents you can offer. So, show up, celebrate the bride and congratulate her on her new journey.

Your Bridal Shower Dilemma Resolved

Not sure if you should bring gifts to a bridal shower? Now you know! Bringing a present to a shower is a thoughtful gesture that honors the bride-to-be and expresses your goodwill. Remember, the most important thing is to choose a present that comes from the heart. Whether big or small, practical or luxurious, the thought behind the gift is what matters.