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What to write in a bridal shower card

A bridal shower is one of the most exciting and fun events that are organized in the lead up to the big day. They also offer a chance for the bride and her close friends, family and colleagues to enjoy some real girly fun on the journey to the wedding. 

If you have been invited and want to bring a bridal shower card but aren’t quite sure what message to include, read our step-by-step guide for some real inspiration. You’ll be on your way in no time.

What is a bridal shower?

The concept of a bridal shower can be traced right back to 16th century Europe, when it was established as an alternative to the dowry system. For example, if the bride-to-be was very poor and her family were unable to provide a dowry then her friends and family would contribute small gifts or some money to help the newlyweds start their married life. Likewise, if the bride’s father did not approve of the marriage and refused to pay, friends and family would rally around and help the couple.

In the United States, bridal showers, as we know them today, began to appear in urban areas towards the end of the 19th century, mainly among the upper middle classes. By the 1930s, bridal showers had spread across all areas of America.

A bridal shower today is usually held in the afternoon or evening, and is often organized by the Maid of Honor and perhaps a couple of the bride’s close friends a few weeks before the actual wedding. 

There is definitely a party atmosphere and just like in the 19th century, friends and family still ‘shower’ the bride-to-be with bridal cards and small gifts (though not from a parasol – read on to find out why!). These typically include little luxuries and personal tokens, and you’ll also find lots of wedding themed decorations, party food and cake, champagne and other goodies. 

Traditionally speaking, showers are girly events, but there are no rules banning friends of any gender from attending.

Fun fact

The word ‘shower’ may originate from the Victorian era when gifts were placed inside a parasol, which was then opened, showering the bride-to-be with the presents.

Why should you send a card?

Whether you’re attending or not, a bridal shower invite is a thoughtful gesture, and a bridal shower card is customary. It’s also a great way to express your excitement about upcoming nuptials, and an opportunity to offer your help in any upcoming duties – whether you are a member of the bridal party or not. It’s especially important to send a card if you’re unable to attend the shower – maybe you live far away and will be there for the wedding but not for events in the run up to the big day.

What kind of card should I send?

There’s a good chance you’ve already sent an engagement card, and you’ll probably be sending a wedding card too. So although bridal shower-specific cards tend to be hard to find, a congratulations card is generally a great place to start. TouchNote has an incredible range of cards for every wedding occasion. Take a look at our “congratulations on your wedding” cards and go from there.

Messages for a friend

Whether you have known them for just about ever or your friendship is reasonably new, a friend’s wedding is wonderful and exciting. You know how long they’ve loved their person and now you’re at their bridal shower helping prepare them for the big day. Capture your joy and excitement with a thoughtful message telling them how thrilled you are for them.

If you’re a very close friend, you will probably want to include something intimate and more sentimental. However, if you aren’t that close, you can still make your wishes heartfelt and sincere. Or you might want to write something fun and funny – whatever you decide will be right for you.

“Congratulations to my very best friend – I could not be more thrilled for you, and wish you a wonderful wedding day and a life filled with happiness and love.”

“Wishing you a fun day today, a wonderful wedding day, and a lifetime of happiness. I am there for you whenever you need me in this busy and exciting time.”

“Two of my most favorite people in the world are getting married, and I am so happy for you – you are perfect for each other. Congratulations and all my love to you both. Have a great day today!”

Messages for family

Whether the bride is a daughter, sister, cousin, aunt or niece, this wedding is going to be a big moment for them – and for you too, as you welcome a new person into your family. Express your love for them, reminisce on the years you’ve spent together and let them know how excited and happy you are as they begin this new chapter in their lives.

“Happy bridal shower day Sis! Thanks for being a brilliant big sister and I know you are going to be the most beautiful bride ever. I’m so looking forward to being a bridesmaid and sharing the joy on your big day!”

“Congratulations on your special day, cousin – may you be ‘showered’ with gifts! Remember when we used to play weddings all those years ago? Now you’re getting married for real, and I couldn’t be happier for you.”

“To a brilliant, smart and beautiful daughter who has filled my life with joy. I know you will have an incredible future with (name) and I wish you a lifetime of love and contentment.”

Messages for co-workers

Though a co-worker might not be your closest friend, getting an invite to their bridal shower is still a big gesture. Keep your message sweet, short and simple. Tell them you’re excited to be working with the future Mrs X and that you’ll be there with cake when they get back from their honeymoon. 

“Congratulations on your forthcoming wedding and thank you for including me in your bridal shower. I hope you have a lovely day today.”

“Best wishes and good luck for the future from your colleagues in (department). Hope you have lots of fun today.”

“Showering you with warm wishes – good luck and all the best. I look forward to seeing you back in the office after your honeymoon and hearing all about it!”

Messages for anyone

Not every bride will be your best friend or sister; sometimes the invite comes from a family friend, a distant cousin or a partner’s friend. Even though you’re not close right now, this invite is a chance to bond and deepen your relationship. Cards like these might not be the most sentimental, but that doesn’t mean they have to be generic. 

“Best wishes to you both for a brilliant future. May your bridal shower be just the beginning of an exciting and wonderful adventure.”

“Your big day is almost here! Many warm wishes and all the very best for a lovely wedding.”

“Thank you for making me part of your wedding journey, I wish you every happiness as you begin your new life.”

The perfect personalized bridal shower card

A bridal shower is an exciting and fun event in the lead up to the big day; a chance for the bride-to-be and her close friends, family and colleagues to have some girly fun and celebrate the next step in the wedding journey. So log into the TouchNote app today and you can be sure your bridal shower card is a real hit!

TouchNote / January 2023
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