Here is the truth. I would have skipped the bridal shower all together a few months back. I wouldn’t have bothered because it’s planning a mini party right before I plan a big party. It seemed unnecessary at first and I hesitated. My sister, the Maid-of-Honor, pushed me first to register at Macys. Then she said she’d plan a surprise bridal shower. As she lives in Boston and I live in Miami, that had to be hard for her. But I relented. I stay focused on the wedding and my sister took the shower details.
This Thursday she flies into town. This Friday is a hard day at work for me for the day job. The AP tests I cover are next week. And this Saturday is my surprise bridal shower. Then that night it’s the surprise bachelorette party. I really have no clue about anything and I don’t ask. I’m happy to focus on the wedding in 39 days. Selfie station is on the maybe list right now. And the candy buffet needs a few more vases and boxes to pack underneath for differing heights. Did I order enough cupcakes? Do I have enough candy? These are the things that come to my mind at the moment.
But I do have to make a run to Barnes and Noble to pick up thank you cards this week.
So now that the shower is this weekend, I’m excited about the whole thing. I’ve no idea what’s going on. If it’s just a few people, it’s all good. I don’t really know anything.
I feel beholden at the Vice President of the Florida Romance Writers to show up at the meeting I planned on paranormal world building with a medical doctor presenting. This is a great topic and I’m sold already in going. It’s at 9 AM and ends at noon. Bridal shower starts at 1 PM. So it’s possible.
Then that evening my sister and friends are taking me out. There will be no strippers. I was super clear I just wanted a fun time out with my friends and naked men are gross. Yes I write romance novels, and no I don’t want to see a male dancer remove his clothing. A drink with friends and I’m a happy camper. It’s mostly about being out with my friends and having a good time.
So as the whole thing in one day… what does one wear? It’s a surprise. Do I pack a pair of blue jeans? I’ve literally no idea what to wear. But I’m excited to celebrate the whole women getting together to party before the wedding idea now.
So special shout out to my sister Sabrina. She is doing it all. (And yes our parents named us Victoria and Sabrina… perfect romance novel writer names, if my sister ever wants to take a stab at the genre she loves reading.)
Speaking of names, it’s awesome to be an author. Pinder will always be my writers name. But in real life, no one will know anything due to the married name I’ll pick up. So I get to stay two people with two names. I like it!
Frequently Asked Questions
How should the bride dress for a surprise bridal shower when she doesn’t know the venue or plans?
When the bride doesn’t know the venue or plans for a surprise bridal shower, a versatile outfit that works across multiple settings is the safest choice. Packing a pair of blue jeans as a backup is a practical option. Since the event details are unknown, choosing something comfortable yet polished ensures the bride is prepared for anything from a casual gathering to a night out.
What is the difference between a bridal shower and a bachelorette party?
A bridal shower is typically a daytime celebration, often involving gifts and close friends or family gathering before the wedding. A bachelorette party is a separate, usually evening event focused on fun and celebration with friends. Both can happen on the same day — for example, a bridal shower in the afternoon followed by a bachelorette night out with drinks.
Should a bride have both a bridal shower and a bachelorette party or just one?
Having both a bridal shower and a bachelorette party is common, and both can even be scheduled on the same day to simplify planning. While a bridal shower can initially feel like extra work before the wedding, many brides find value in both events once they embrace the celebrations. The Maid of Honor often handles planning, making it easier for the bride to simply enjoy each event.
