When someone announces they’re engaged, suddenly there are many events to be planned, including a bridal shower. This gathering, generally thrown by the maid/matron of honor, is a celebration of the bride-to-be. Along with light-hearted advice, guests are expected to bring gifts to help the couple feather their nest in this tradition that dates back to communities providing an alternative to the dowry system.
As with any party, establishing a theme at the get-go will help with selections going forward. In November, BRIDES magazine in collaboration with Minted Weddings marketplace, announced Marseille Bleu as the 2024 Wedding Color of the Year. Articles in the hue named after the French coastal city can also serve as that something blue. While hydrangeas are a summer flower in Rhode Island, they are available all year to florists, so harkening July even on a snowy afternoon shouldn’t be an issue.
While the food served will depend on the venue – everything from pot-luck at a home to catered at a country club or a selected menu from a cafe – it’s always nice to have dessert. Cupcakes decorated with piped frosting to resemble hydrangeas are perfect for extending the theme beyond the vase.
Specialty cookies decorated with the bride’s initials or topped with a cluster of confectionery petals, along with shapes like engagement rings and wedding bands, are a sweet touch, and best of all, so easy to grab and eat!
Linen in its naturally wrinkled state sets the backdrop for a seaside-inspired tablescape. Collected sea glass and picked hydrangea petals scattered about add unfussy interest and color.
Sending traditional paper invitations gives guests a first impression of the event ahead, and provides something tangible to post on the fridge and save. The original artwork that appears on the custom bridal shower invitations by Sincerely, Eileen extends to other products carried at Eileen Graphics in Newport; find stickers, notepads, pillows, coasters, and more!
Embark on a quest of vintage, antique, and thrift shops seeking aqua Ball canning jars to use as vases for billowy blue blooms; new versions are available at various retailers as well.
Hand-painted oyster shells add charm to the table and can be used as gifts for the couple, favors for guests, or simply holders of small items.
Love hydrangeas but want something other than blue? These water-loving mop heads can also be found in white, red, purple, and pink in a range of shades from pale to rich.
A handy list of brands, shops, and makers featured in this article:
North Kingstown | @aucoindesigns
Featured: Styling and photography
Cranston | @danielles_delights_ri
Featured: Cupcakes and cookies
Scituate | @lucky_clover_farm
Featured: Floral bouquets
Wickford | @serendipity_ri
Featured: Backyard Beach Decor Wedding Collection
Newport | @eileengraphics
Featured: Custom invitations
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