Gifting Ideas
The Wine Cellar
Consider having all guests bring a bottle of wine to give to the bride and groom. This way the happy couple is stocked up and have a library of selection! Consider placing labels on the back with personalized messages from the guest who brought it. A more complex twist on this idea could be to designate specific people to select bottles for special occasions (anniversary's, 30th birthday, first bottle after first baby is born, first bottle for first home, etc).
Each guest is designated a letter (via invitation), and their gift (or a small part of it) should be associated somehow with that letter. This lets guests be as creative as they can to connect their gift to their letter. My guess is the bride will always remember who gave what gift!
For the Pantry
Is your couple into canning, pickling, jams & jellies? Consider having guests bring recipes & samples specific to these sorts of pantry items. This gives the couple an opportunity to stock their shelves for the start of their lives together, enjoy some samples, and have the recipes for life. Not everyone knows these techniques? Have people who may not be pro-canners bring any staple family recipe for the cookbook & add spices to the pantry cabinet.
Venues and Themes
A Picnic in the Park
This isn't necessarily a new idea, but just one that is always unique. For an idea on a budget, this is a great way to celebrate outdoors, and still feels like it's a special venue. Hosts can make bagged lunches for everyone, do a buffet style meal, or even have guests bring their own lunch! This idea also allows for both formal and casual style showers. Bring chairs and tables, use existing picnic tables, or tell guests to bring blankets & pillows and sit on the ground! Check with local officials about regulations before bringing any spirits
Eat, Drink and be Merry: A Vineyard Shower
Having a shower at a vineyard location is a great way for everyone to enjoy a special event, taste some wine, and eat some cheese & cupcakes. Vineyards are usually simple and elegant, with a relaxing atmosphere. This also can offer a fun entertainment, as tours & tastings provide a focus that can be entertaining. Many offer indoor & outdoor spaces, so for those wanting an outdoor venue with a safe backup, this may be a great option. Consider the gift idea above to match!
Cooking Class
Looking for a different idea? Try a cooking class as a shower. This is a great way for a bride to bond a bit with the ladies (and gents) in her life, eat wonderful food stress free for all, and still have an opportunity to open gifts. Know someone who is savvy in the kitchen? Have a DIY cooking class by asking a friend or relative to run the show! All you need is someone with the skills and a large kitchen to fit everyone.
