Who Throws a Couples Shower? A Modern Wedding Trend Explained

So, you're thinking about throwing a couples shower, but where do you even start? First off, let's get it straight: a couples shower is just like a bridal shower but for both partners. It's a chance to celebrate with all your closest friends instead of sticking with just the traditional bridesmaids bash.

In the past, it was always the maid of honor or a close female family member who got the ball rolling. But with couples showers, it's more about who knows how to party! Sometimes the best friends of both partners team up to host, or even a sibling duo. There are no strict rules—it’s more about who’s in the best position to bring everyone together.

A couples shower opens up so many activity possibilities—think coed games, themed dinner parties, or even a relaxed backyard BBQ. The focus moves away from the bride-centered gifts to things both partners will enjoy. It's all about having fun and celebrating the upcoming wedding together.

• What is a Couples Shower?
• Who Hosts the Celebration?
• Activities to Try
• Invitation Tips
• Why Choose a Couples Shower?

What is a Couples Shower?

A couples shower is a modern twist on the traditional bridal shower, designed to include both partners—yes, the groom too! These events are becoming incredibly popular as they reflect the evolving dynamics of relationships and weddings. Instead of celebrating just the bride, this shower brings together the couple's mutual friends and family.

This change encourages a more inclusive environment where everyone can take part in the festivities. It's not just about lace and ribbons anymore; it can be anything from a casual backyard barbecue to a themed dinner party. The best part? Everyone feels more involved in the journey to the big day.

"Couples showers are a reflection of the growing trend toward equality in wedding planning," says Amelia Trent, editor of Modern Bride Magazine. "They allow both partners to share in the joy and excitement leading up to the wedding day."

Not Just for Ladies: An Inclusive Affair

The growing popularity of coed showers is more than a passing trend. According to a recent survey conducted by WeddingWire, about 40% of engaged couples reported hosting or attending a couples shower last year. This inclusive twist means no one misses out on the fun, and both partners feel equally celebrated.

While the event can still involve some traditional elements like opening gifts, it evolves to include activities and games that appeal to everyone attending. Doesn't that sound a lot more fun? Think group trivia about the couple or a playful mixology class where friends craft cocktails for all.

Celebrating Together, Everyone's Invited!

In essence, these showers are all about shared joy and togetherness. They allow friends from both sides to bond in a relaxed setting before the big day, creating lasting memories. Importantly, they also break away from the gender norms often associated with wedding traditions, making them an important step toward a more modern wedding culture.

Who Hosts the Celebration?

In the exciting world of couples showers, the host question gets a fun twist. Traditionally, bridal showers were often hosted by the maid of honor or a close female relative. But with couples showers, the hosting duties can be shared among more creative combinations.

So, who should take the reins? Often, it's the job of the best friends or siblings of both partners. Why? Because they're likely to know the ins and outs of the couple and can plan activities that everyone will love. This not only spreads the workload but also injects fun, diverse elements into the planning process.

"It's about who knows them best and who can ensure the shower is a blast." — Wedding Planner Alex Chambers

Can the couple host their own shower? Technically yes, but it’s more common and less work for the couple if their loved ones handle the planning. It allows the soon-to-be-weds to kick back and enjoy the celebration.

Key Tips for Hosts

If you find yourself in the hosting seat, here are some tricks of the trade:

• Team up: Divide tasks among a group of friends to make the process easier and more fun.
• Theme it: Find a theme that resonates with the couple's interests—the more personal, the better.
• Plan activities: Make sure to include activities everyone can join to create an inclusive atmosphere.

By knowing who typically hosts a couples shower, you can ensure the duties land on those who will make the event memorable. In the end, it's less about the rules, and more about ensuring the event feels personal and joyous for the couple and all their loved ones.

Activities to Try

Planning a couples shower might feel like a tall order at first, but there are heaps of fun activities to keep the day entertaining for everyone. Forget those awkward icebreakers—this is all about good times and laughter.

1. Team Games

Nothing gets people bonding like a bit of friendly competition. Consider organizing some coed games like a trivia contest focused on the couple's history or a classic game of charades. These can easily break the ice and create fun memories.

2. Cooking or Mixology Class

If you want something hands-on, why not a cooking or cocktail mixing class? Not only do guests learn something new, but they also get to enjoy their creations afterward. It's a deliciously engaging way to bring everyone together.

3. Backyard BBQ

Keep it relaxed with a simple backyard BBQ. Set up some lawn games like cornhole or frisbee, and let everyone mingle while they enjoy the atmosphere. This laid-back approach keeps the day exciting without any over-the-top frills.

4. Karaoke Battle

If your crowd loves music, a karaoke battle could be a hit. Set up a small stage with classic hits and watch as inhibitions disappear. It’s all about having fun, so don’t take it too seriously.

5. Crafting Station

Add a personal touch with a crafting station where guests can create their own keepsakes. It could be decorating wine glasses or making friendship bracelets. It’s a neat way for everyone to take home a piece of the day.

Whichever activities you pick, just ensure they reflect the personalities of both partners. The goal is inclusivity and making sure everyone feels like they're a part of the celebration.

Invitation Tips

When it comes to sending out invites for a couples shower, you've got to strike a balance between fun and informative. Unlike the usual bridal shower invites, a couples shower is more about setting the vibe for everyone, since both of you are in the spotlight. Here’s how to nail it:

Choosing the Right Platform

These days, there are tons of ways to send invitations. Traditional paper invites are charming, but for a more modern touch, digital invites using platforms like Evite or Paperless Post are popular. They're eco-friendly and let you track RSVPs easily, which is super handy.

Essential Details to Include

• Date and Time: Pretty key piece of info, right? Be clear about the when and where.
• Location: Whether it's a chill backyard get-together or a more formal venue, make sure everyone knows where to go.
• Theme and Attire: Got a theme? Let people know! Is it Hawaiian, Boho, or just come-as-you-are casual?
• RSVP Details: Give a clear deadline for when people need to respond and how. Do you prefer snail mail, email, or a phone call?
• Gift Ideas: While gifts might not be the main focus, it’s still a good idea to include registry info or preferred gift ideas. Maybe you now prefer gifts that both can enjoy!

Timing is Everything

Try to send out invitations at least four to six weeks before the big day. This gives guests ample time to clear their schedules and respond. Don’t forget to follow up if you haven’t heard back closer to the deadline.

Make it Personal

Don’t just settle for cookie-cutter invites, add a personal touch. Whether it's a quirky line, an inside joke, or even matching the invite design to your wedding colors, these little details make your invites memorable. And remember, the invitation is a teaser of what’s to come, so make it zing!

Why Choose a Couples Shower?

In today's world, inclusivity and shared experiences are key in planning memorable events. So why opt for a couples shower instead of the traditional bridal shower? Well, it offers plenty of advantages that cater to modern dynamics and create unforgettable memories for couples and their friends.

Inclusion and Togetherness

Gone are the days when wedding-related events were just for women. A couples shower embraces both partners, making everyone feel included. It’s a fantastic way for friends from both sides to mingle and bond before the big day, creating a warm, supportive environment.

Breaking the Norms and Having More Fun

Hosting a couples shower allows you to break from norm and add your own flair. Think about it—playing coed games or sharing quirky couple stories enriches the overall experience. It’s a chance to laugh together, let loose, and celebrate your love story with everyone.

All About Shared Gifts

Another big perk is how it shifts the focus from solely bride-oriented gifts to something both partners can enjoy. Whether it's cool gadgets, home decor, or shared hobbies, gift-giving becomes more meaningful and relevant to both people.

Simplified Planning

Organizing one event instead of separate parties can simplify the planning process. Having a joint celebration means fewer dates to juggle, reduced costs, and a lighter organizational load overall. Plus, it usually results in a bigger turnout for a stellar bash!

Overall, choosing a couples shower lets you celebrate your partnership equally, marking the adventure you're about to embark on as a team. It’s more than just a party—it sets the tone for an inclusive and joyous future.