Bridal showers living it up for new generation

Put away the tea cups and silence that dreary conversation because for this wedding season, bridal showers are getting a little more oomph.

What was once regarded as a more formal, rather high brow affair has now turned to weekend getaways, co-ed shindigs and yes, even lingerie parties. Start with a theme or a nice way to personalize the bridal shower and gives the couple-to-be useful gifts to use at home.

“People are getting out of the more demure bridal showers and getting a little more exciting,” said Leticia Guerra, a wedding coordinator and publisher of the Valley Wedding Pages, an annual wedding guide. “Weddings are a lot of stress so it’s a nice distraction before the big day.”

For the unabashed, Guerra says, many bridal parties are resorting to the good old-fashioned private dancers but enjoying the festivities while on a beach getaway.

“These types of parties still exist,” she said. “It might not be spoken about out loud but women still keep this tradition alive.”

With bridal showers, women have ventured into the world of lingerie for a more intimate setting with close gal pals. This type of shindig might call for an overnighter which also might incorporate a longer getaway to Sin City.

“Las Vegas isn’t just for bachelors anymore,” she said. “Groups of girls are heading to Vegas for several days as a bachelorette, bridal shower all in one.”

For out-of-town showers experts suggest giving guests keepsakes like cosmetic cases, faux crystal key chains or place card photo frames. Less traditional gifts also include personalized chocolates, monogrammed shot glasses and small perfume bottles, said Maureen Caballero, show producer of the annual Wedding Fair in McAllen.

“People want to feel involved in a wedding and giving out personalized items is a great idea,” she said. “Even small events like a bridal shower help the group prepare for the wedding day.”

One of the newer trends is taking a handful of girlfriends for a day of pampering at a local spa, Caballero said. There, the group can sip on mimosas, get facials and a much-needed massage. Or, have the organizer reserve a space at the spa so that everyone can eat lunch together and exchange gifts, experts said. Guests can pitch in to pay for the bride’s services as their shower gift to her.

“A lot of people are used to going to someone’s house and having a more sit-down shower,” Caballero said. “Things have changed, but for the better.”

According to the Web site ebridalshowers.com, one of the newer trends is hosting couple showers. With couple showers, hosts can hold off on ribbons and bows and traditional settings, opting to have the event at the couples’ favorite restaurant or bar.

The Web site also suggests bringing along a karaoke machine for those wannabe American Idols, and watching the fun (or the ridiculous).

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Miriam Ramirez covers features and entertainment for The Monitor. You can reach her at (956) 683-4468. For this and more local stories visit www.themonitor.com.