While planning for a wedding there's one thing you will notice, you need to be prepared for multiple parties! These parties do serve a purpose it's to help friends and families become better acquainted and it allows the hosts and guests an opportunity to share the joy of the couple. It's such a festive occasion! You will get to "PARTY THE NIGHTS AWAY".

There are things to consider when giving a party, such as should I sent out invitations, who should be invited, do I have games, and most of all what type of party should it be? I have tried to answer some of the normal concerns with some suggestions below.

Who should give the bridal shower? The Maid of Honor should throw the shower with one exception, if the Maid of Honor is the bride's sister she should allow one of the bride's maids handle it. The reason for this is the bride's family should not sponsor any shower for the bride, but this is a new day so if you fell compelled to do so I say why not!

There are many types of showers you can have, of course the time and season will play a role in your selection. Choosing the location of the shower will help you decide the type of shower you will have, be it formal, informal or just a backyard garden shower.

Compiling a guest list could be complicated; you must include the bridesmaids, sisters, the bride's and groom's mothers and grandmothers. You should never invite anyone to the shower who is not going to be invited to the wedding reception as well. Close relatives and friends of the bride can be invited, if you have more than one shower make sure not to duplicate the guest list.

Invitations should be sent at least three to four weeks before the event. The invitation should include the hostesses' names; the bride's name; the date, time and location of the event; any special themes, and an RSVP name and phone number.