Floral Arranging at a Bridal Shower?

That is the gem of an idea we read about over at 100 Layer Cake and The Perfect Bridesmaid. I have to say I am in love with this idea. The concept is this- so many of us love having fresh flowers in our homes but hate the cost of the delivered bouquets from the florist. The flower bundles in the grocery store are much less expensive, but mine never turn into the gorgeous arrangements the florist delivers. That is where the very talented Sarah of Blossom and Branch came up with the idea for Bodega Flowers 101. Sarah teaches you how to take those grocery store flowers from ordinary to extraordinary!

Add your best girlfriends, some good food and good wine, and this sounds like a perfect non traditional bridal shower. Blossom and Branch is in New York but don't fret there is a DIY solution for everyone else. Flower Duet has the Flower Party in a Box. Flower Party in a Box is a steal at about $26 per guest and includes all of this:

• How to Create a European Wrap Bouquet DVD to watch with your guests and get to work on your own designs.
• Three Flower Recipes for each design on the DVD - nine recipes in all.
• Floral cutters for each guest to use and take home – these are our favorite we use for every class & workshop.
• To-go Vases that are reusable and lightweight – You pick the color for your party theme.
• Floral design Tip Sheets for each guest to take home.
• And…one free email consultation on where to buy your flowers for your party and what to buy!

Here is a sample of one of the gorgeous arrangements you can create with flower party in a box.

Ladies I think EM needs this at her shower!

Bridal Shower Games

The modern bride does not always want to play traditional bridal shower games. In fact the last several bridal and baby showers I have been to have had very few or none at all. I spent a little time today searching the web for unique bridal shower games that even a modern bride would love. Some of these yes are old favorites but they get a good laugh out of the group and some are a little naughty for a younger crowd. They all guarantee a good time, and you would be surprised what your mom and her friends think is just as funny as you do!

Pick up a few little prizes for the winners of each game you play. A little competition always gets people involved. Candles, Stationary, Bath and Body products are always a hit and you don't have to spend alot. You can even tie the prizes in with your theme. A Scoop of Love Ice Cream scoopers to spread the love,

for a beach theme wedding Ocean Breeze Shell Scented Soaps.

Swanky Chicks has hundreds of favors that make a great little Thank you gift or prize for your bridal shower games.

DIY Games

1. 20 questions- This is an oldie but a goodie and the answer range from sweet to hilarious. Put together a list of questions for the groom, about the bride and their relationship. The more personal and tailored to the couple, the funnier the answers.
Ex. Where/When was your first kiss?
Where/ When did you meet?
What is the most adorable thing the bride (or groom) does?
What is the most annoying thing the bride (or groom) does?
What is the weirdest habit the bride (or groom) has?
Have the groom answer all the questions before the shower and see how many of their answers match.

2.Famous Couples Matching Game. Put together a list of famous celebrities that are a part of a couple, list only one half of each couple. Have your guests fill in the blanks with the name of the other half of the celebrity couple.
Ex. Tom Cruise ___________ (answer: Katie Holmes)
Calista Flockhart __________ (answer: Harrison Ford)

Buy it Online
1. Pin the Macho on the Man. This is a naughty version of pin the tail on the donkey that is great for bridal showers and bachelorette parties.

Join the fun, and share your favorites. Leave a comment with your favorite bridal shower game.