Traditionally, the maid or matron of honor hosts a bridal shower for the bride. Today, a Bachelorette party is often thrown for the bride in addition to the conservative bridal shower. As the maid or matron of honor, it is likely you will be expected to arrange and pay for both events.

Consult with the Bride
For both the bridal shower and the Bachelorette party, talk with the bride about the guest lists. You'll also want to discuss where the party should be hosted, what day would be best, and what kind of activities she'd like to do, including games.

When and Where
The bridal shower usually occurs on a Sunday afternoon, two to three weeks before the wedding, at the maid/matron of honor's house. The Bachelorette party often happens on a Friday or Saturday night, two to three weeks before the wedding. You may want to plan the Bachelorette party on the same night as the groom's bachelor party.

Orchestrating the Party
The possibilities are only limited by your imagination. Generally, if you are hosting a traditional bridal shower or a Bachelorette party at your house, you should:

1. Send out invitations 3 weeks before the party. Be sure to ask for an RSVP by a certain date, preferably one week before the party. Parties usually last 2 to 3 hours.

2. Buy a gift for the bride. Something off the couple's bridal registry is always appropriate. If this is a bachelorette party, gifts can be more risqué, such as nasty cards, sleazy lingerie and other sex toys, depending on the comfort level of the bride.

3. Prepare a variety of finger foods and order a cake. Don't forget the punch and coffee. If this is a bachelorette party, you may want to add Jell-o shots or other alcoholic beverages.

4. Clean and organize your house for the party. Decorate with streamers, balloons and/or confetti. Arrange furniture and chairs around a central location where the bride will open her presents.

5. Presents should be placed in a central location in the house such as a living room or family room. Offer guests something to drink or eat as they arrive.

6. Make introductions as soon as all of the guests have arrived and taken a seat.

7. Play 1 to 2 party games. Make sure to have wrapped prizes for the winners, plus one extra prize in case there is a tie.

8. Have the bride open her presents. Be sure to assign someone to write down all gifts and gift givers on a piece of paper for the bride's thank you notes.

9. Cut the cake after all of the presents are opened. Be sure to get a picture of the bride with the cake before cutting and serving.

10. If this is a bachelorette party, you may want to continue the party at a local bar or strip club. Carpooling is least expensive...be sure to have designated drivers. You could also rent a van or limousine for a few hours. Limos can be very expensive--read the fine print and get all the details before signing on the dotted line.

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