A Complete Guide to Bridal Shower Invitation Wording

There are so many details that go into planning a bridal shower, and it all starts with creating the perfect invitation for this special pre-wedding event. But since bridal shower invitations have their own set of rules, you'll need to learn the right way to ask guests to attend this all-important affair, as the details you provide will set the tone for the festivities you're organizing. This includes when to send them out, how to word them, and what details to include.

Rule number one? Proper etiquette dictates that it's best to send out invitations a minimum of four to six weeks in advance of the shower. It's also recommended that you mail paper invitations instead of sending out e-vites—though you can lean into emails depending on the type of shower and who's hosting it. For instance, for bridesmaids hosting a shower for close friends of the bride only (we're talking no family here), it's okay to use an email invitation. (Keep in mind, however, that every part of the wedding experience is special to the bride, and a printed bridal shower invitation goes a long way—especially when it comes to keeping mementos.) But if the shower includes family members, like grandmothers, older family, or older family friends, it's best to stick with a printed invitation; you never know what will get lost online.

Additionally, and most importantly, you'll have to accurately write out the details of the event so that guests know what to expect before the celebration begins. To help you plan this element out, here's our guide to bridal shower invitation wording, complete with examples to inspire your own.

What to Include on Bridal Shower Invitations

When writing out your bridal shower invitations, be sure to include all of the following event information.

The Guest of Honor's Name

This should be a no-brainer: The guest of honor's name should be included on the front of a bridal shower invitation. Hosting co-ed shower? Be sure to also add the bride's partner so that people know this isn't a gals-only day. Avoid mentioning the bride's partner if the shower is only for her, however. It's nice of you to want to include them as a way of celebrating the couple but doing so will likely leave guests confused.

The Date, Time, and Location

The date, time, and location are all crucial details that need to be included on a bridal shower invitation—and these should be listed in fonts that people can easily read. Ensure the date is also crystal clear by spelling out the month rather than using numerals (for example, write out November 6, 2017, instead of 11-06-17). Don't forget to write out the address, too: This prevents guests from showing up at the wrong venue due to a GPS mistake.

RSVP Details

You'd be surprised how many people forget to add RSVP details on their bridal shower invitations (don't let this be you!). Include an RSVP date (this will ensure you order the right amount of food and drinks), the name of the person guests should contact, and a phone number or email address for RSVPs.

The Name of the Host or Hosts

While not required, it's nice to include information about who is throwing the party—especially if there are multiple people involved. This way, guests will know who to thank once the festivities are over. "Hosted by Aunt Linda, Aunt Ronda, and Aunt Leslie," for example is a nice idea. Alternatively, if all of the bridesmaids are planning the shower, instead of listing names, add a line at the bottom of the invitation that says, "Hosted by her loving bridesmaids."

The Registry Information

The purpose of a bridal shower is to shower the bride with love and gifts, so don't forget to include the registry information when inviting guests. You can do this in two ways: The first is by directing guests to the couple's wedding website, while the other option is to simply name the stores the couple has registered at. For example, write: "For registry information, please visit [insert website here]" or "[Name] is registered at Bed Bath & Beyond, World Market, and Crate & Barrel." Whichever option you choose, it gets the job done.

Bridal Shower Invitation Wording Examples

The words on your invitation—along with the stationery design—will indicate how formal, casual, traditional, or modern the shower will be. Here are several examples to consider if you're stuck on what to say.

Traditional Bridal Shower Invitation Wording

More traditional gatherings may want to open with bridal shower invitation wording like:

• "Please join us for a bridal shower honoring [name of bride]."
• "Help us shower [name of bride] with love."
• "Come celebrate [name of bride] before she ties the knot."
• "[Name of host] is delighted to announce the bridal shower of [name of bride]."
• "Join us for a bridal shower in celebration of [name of bride] and her upcoming marriage."
• "Please join us in celebrating the bride-to-be at her bridal shower this [date of event]!"

Modern Bridal Shower Invitation Wording

For alternative wording, try something more playful, such as:

• "A toast to the soon-to-be Mrs."
• "Let's help this Miss become a Mrs."
• "Pop! Fizz! Clink! Twirl! Help us celebrate our favorite girl!"
• "[Name of bride] is getting married! Let's throw her a shower she'll never forget."

Funny Bridal Shower Invitation Wording

For something lighthearted and amusing, consider using these openers:

• "Guess what? Our girl finally got a ring (it took her long enough!). Come help us celebrate."
• "Free booze and food! Come celebrate [name of bride] with us."
• "Apparently [name of bride] is finally a finacée? Come see for yourself at her bridal shower."

Themed Bridal Shower Invitation Wording

If you're hosting a themed event, here are several wording ideas to get your guests in the mood to party in style:

• "You're cordially invited to [name of bride's] bridal shower tea party. Wear your finest attire to toast to the bride."
• "Boots, brunch, and bubbly. Let's have a shower [name of bride] is sure to remember."
• "Join us for an intimate lingerie shower to celebrate [name of bride] before becoming a Mrs."

Bridal Shower Invitation Wording for a Surprise Event

Throwing a surprise celebration? Here's how to ensure your guests know to keep the secret!

• "Shhh! It's a secret! Please join us in showering [name of bride] with love!"
• "You are cordially invited to a surprise bridal shower for [name of bride]! Keep our secret safe!"

Bridal Shower Invitation Wording for Couples' Events

Sometimes, couples may choose to do a joint shower, with both partners present. For that scenario, here are a few wording ideas:

• "[Partner's name] and [partner's name] invite you to their shower to celebrate their upcoming marriage."
• "Please join [name of host] in celebrating the love of [name of partner] and [name of partner]!"