How Do I Throw A Wedding Reception & Shower Together? – Ask The Expert Answer

Question from Sabrina:

I have a problem on my hands.  My cousin, who is the closest thing I have to a sister, got married this past Monday.  There was no engagement period or ceremony.  They just got their license, went to the preacher’s house, and got married.  Since there was no engagement period, I was unable to have her a bridal shower.  I would still like to do this, but maybe have it as a reception/shower together.  Is there any appropriate way to do that??  I would love for her to have something to celebrate their marriage.

Answer from Bridal Expert Angela:

Hi Sabrina.  What a lovely thought to do something nice for your cousin.  The question I have is why did they not choose to have a wedding party?  Maybe, for reasons of their own, they don’t want one.  If this is the case, then I feel that you should respect that wish. 

Saying that, many people get married and have a reception at a later date, and sometimes have multiple receptions.  This is becoming more and more common because couples don’t always come from the same geographical area, and family and friends can’t always attend a destination wedding.  Whatever the reasons, having a reception at a later date is not uncommon.  Sometimes, couples will have their wedding party on an anniversary because they were unable to have it on their wedding day.

I would suggest an afternoon cocktail reception as it is a less costly event than a formal reception with a sit down dinner.  There can still be music, a champagne or wine bar, hors d’ouvres, etc.  It can be held in someone’s home as easily as at a more formal hall.  If you have a bridal shower, it will be the ladies only, so a reception would be a better alternative.  People will bring gifts as a matter of course to a wedding reception, although it may not be traditional shower gifts.  If there is no bridal registry, gift suggestions are then given (when asked) by the people hosting the reception, or their immediate family members. 

For ideas on how to word the invitation, check out this link found under Wedding Categories on the home page. There are more ideas under Anniversaries regarding how to throw a party after the couple are married, and more information on wedding invitation wording.  If you have any other questions, feel free to email again.

Angela Fiebelkorn, Ask The Expert