How to Pull Off Having Two Bridal Showers

A bridal shower is a very special occasion for a to-be-wed. Friends and family come together to celebrate your upcoming marriage with fun games and delicious food and drinks. Sometimes, if you're lucky enough, you get the opportunity to have two bridal showers. This may happen for a variety of different reasons: you and your partner are from different places, multiple people might want to host one or you have different people from different parts of your life who want to celebrate. No matter what the reason is, wedding showers are always a blast and having two just means double the fun. Celebrate however you see fit, without fear of judgment. We tapped an expert to weigh in on how to have two bridal showers.

In this article:

• Is It Common to Have Two Bridal Showers?
• When to Have Two Bridal Showers
• Should Guests Bring Two Gifts?
• How to Have Two Bridal Showers

Is It Common to Have Two Bridal Showers?

In short: Yes. It is very common to have two separate bridal showers, especially if your family and your future in-laws don't live near each other. "Having two bridal showers is more common than you might think, depending on the circumstances and preferences," says Michelle Durpetti, founder of Durpetti Events based in Chicago. "Some brides we have worked with chose to have themed showers—like a personal shower for fun gifts such as lingerie or a holiday-themed shower for Christmas and other holiday-inspired home decor items. Sometimes more than one family member would like to do something for the couple which can also mean more than one celebration!"

When to Have Two Bridal Showers

For the record, you don't need a reason to have two bridal showers, if that's what you want to do. However, there are a few instances when it would make sense to have more than one.

You and Your Partner Are From Two Different Places

"If a couple is from different hometowns or locations, it's often convenient to host a shower in each area to celebrate with local friends and family," explains Durpetti. Look for a bridal shower venue near you in each event location.

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You Have Multiple Theme Ideas

"Another scenario might involve different themes for the showers—one might be more traditional, while another could focus on a specific theme, like a personal shower or a shower centered around a holiday or seasonal home items," Durpetti says. Embrace several bridal shower ideas by having two events. Some to-be-weds also want a second shower that includes their partner and incorporates couples shower ideas.

There Are Multiple Hosts

More than one family member may offer to host and pay for a bridal shower to celebrate your upcoming nuptials. "With families being many shapes and sizes, sometimes more than one parent or family member expresses interest in hosting a shower, in which case, why not?" Durpetti says.

Should Guests Bring Two Gifts?

"While it's typical for guests invited to both showers to bring gifts to each, it's not always necessary," Durpetti says. "One option is to have one shower focused more on gathering and celebrating, without the expectation of gifts—such as a bridal brunch. Alternatively, you can be clear about which event will include gifts and which will not. It's all about how you frame the event and set expectations with your guests." Read this if you need further clarification about bridal shower gift etiquette.

How to Have Two Bridal Showers

There are no specific guidelines to follow when it comes to having two showers. Since it's so commonplace now, don't feel guilty or awkward about celebrating more than once. Your loved ones will understand your situation and will show up to support you no matter what. If you are having two bridal showers, here are a few expert tips.

Consider Your Guest Lists

"You can certainly invite the same guests to both showers if both events are intended to be of a similar scale. However, if you're planning for one of the showers to be smaller, you might opt to limit the guest list to close family members and the bridal party," Durpetti recommends. "It really depends on the size and nature of each event. Keep in mind that smaller showers are a great way to create more intimate moments with a select group."

Plan Thoughtfully

"There's no real trick to pulling off two bridal showers—if you want two, have two and enjoy them," Durpetti encourages. "The key is to organize each one thoughtfully, ensuring that both events align with your overall wedding vision and create meaningful opportunities to celebrate with loved ones. There's no need to feel like you have to make it more complicated than it is."

Do It If It Feels Right For You

"I believe that when it comes to celebrating with loved ones, the sky's the limit," Durpetti says. "If having two showers feels right for you and your community, then go for it! Just remember to make each shower feel special in its own way and enjoy the love and support surrounding you during this exciting time."