Bridal Showers and Rites of Passage

Some people avoid them, some love them and for others they are only a social obligation. What really happens under the fluff and umbrella? Some women never have had a shower thrown for them and some have had so many that they have run out of gifts to receive.

It is a rite of passage, women joining together to celebeate one of the milestones on our life journey. Most of us are not even going to the wedding but we are happy to help a sister on her way

It is a sort of paying it forward - we all give, in our turn we will receive and we continue to extend our support. Some of us may never be showered due to life circumstances but when the nuptuals are announced we will say, "don't forget to invite me to the shower".

There are many unwritten rules which have of course changed much over the years, many trends and some superstitions associated with the happy event

Certainly the family and friends shower, at a friend's home surrounded by the mixed generations in our lives , can be such a break from our daily routine. Silly games, fancy sandwiches, a cake, the funny hat decorated with the ribbons and bows all feel comfortable in that space and time. So as silly as they may seem we go and in doing so we say "Good luck" and here is our support to start you on your way and help you along the new road you are following.

I have heard of great traditions that are similar in other cultures. I think the best one is when friends and family give the young bride (and groom) enough of everything they will need for their first year married. That includes food and anything else usable or consumable.