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The Theme Is … Bridal Showers!

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Tasty Kitchen Blog: The Theme is Bridal Showers!

 
June will be here before we know it, and since June is a popular month to get married, that means that these six or so weeks leading up to it will see a lot of bridal showers or wedding planning luncheons being held. So today, we’ll take a look at just some of the many excellent bridal shower menu choices that Tasty Kitchen members have shared. Wonderful dishes like the spread that Ree showed us from a Sip ‘n See that featured Patsy’s Recipes seen above (follow the link to the post for the recipes).

Bridal showers are sometimes seen as obligatory social functions, unless you’re close to the bride and actually share in the planning. But in the old days, bridal showers were particularly helpful when a family didn’t have the resources to provide a proper dowry for their daughter, or if a woman’s father refused to offer a dowry because he disapproved of the marriage. The woman’s friends would gather and bring gifts to compensate for the dowry, which allowed her to marry the man of her choice.

So bridal showers were, at times, an expression of the power of women and the fight to be able to choose your husband. Go ladies!

This, of course, doesn’t change the fact that one of my favorite reasons for attending bridal showers is the food. Oh, the glorious, dainty, yummy ladies food. Because let’s face it, not many men are around during these showers, and it’s our time to plan menus around ourselves and enjoy food that our menfolk might not touch with a ten-foot pole.

Let’s start with some finger foods and little bites. (The guys are already groaning. Finger foods? Little bites? Are you trying to starve us? Thank goodness we’re not invited!) It’s best to choose those that aren’t too messy to eat, but filling and delicious enough to keep the guests happy and satisfied. From classic cucumber sandwiches to crostinis and dumplings, we’ve got everything from simple and elegant to adventurously exotic.

 

Tasty Kitchen Blog: The Theme is Bridal Showers! (Finger Food)Top row, from left to right: Cucumber Sandwices from Angie Arthur, Ricotta Stuffed Mushrooms from italianfoodforever, and Ree’s Mushroom Phyllo Bundles. Middle row, from left to right: Prosciutto, Manchego and Strawberry Crostini from Dandy, Calla Lily Sandwiches by tesslynne, and Mini Caprese Appetizers from LanaAnn. Bottom row, from left to right: Southwest Chicken Eggrolls with Avocado Creme Dip from The Noshery, Ahi Tuna Potstickers with Ginger Soy Dipping Sauce from Food for My Family, and Curry Chicken Salad Crisps from wynk52.

 
 
Bridal showers typically feature light fare and dishes that are easy to eat and not too complicated. After all, there are games going on, gifts being opened, maybe speeches being made, anecdotes and sage advice being shared … so whether the shower you’re organizing is a brunch, luncheon, or dinner, these light dishes will definitely fit the bill.

 

Tasty Kitchen Blog: The Theme is Bridal Showers! (Light Fare)Top row, from left to right: Pasta Salad with Fresh Mozzarella, Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Olives from theparsleythief, Ratatouille from walnutsandwine, and Oriental Chicken Slaw from Kelsey Barnard. Middle row, from left to right: Crustless Spinach Quiche from Ali @ gimmesomeoven, Mini Crab Cakes from theparsleythief, and Crispy Chicken Cutlets with Tallegio Cheese and Prosciutto from italianfoodforever. Bottom row, from left to right: Shrimp Scampi from A Cozy Kitchen, Healthy Lemon Chicken On the Grill from Jacki (you can use this to top a salad, make a wrap, as healthy chicken tenders … so many options!), and a wicked-looking Garlic Cream Cheese Fettuccine with Salmon from Anna G.

 
 
Another fixture in bridal showers is the traditional punch bowl. Champagne. A lovely assortment of ladies’ drinks. Most bridal showers are held during the day, so the choices usually feature light and refreshing cocktails and of course, non-alcoholic options. Here are some of the pretty choices that I found. I don’t know about you, but I’m almost tempted to throw a shower just for these! (Anyone here getting married soon? Anyone?)

 

Tasty Kitchen Blog The Theme is Bridal Showers! (Drinks)Clockwise from top left: Sunshine Nectar from goodlifeeats, Peach, Passionfruit and Prosecco from steamykitchen, Citrus Water Punch from Melanie (gotta hydrate!), The Ward 2010 from foodwoolf, simple and refreshing Iced Green Tea from mangiodasola, and the perfect, decadent end to reward everyone for that light meal that they just had: Ree’s Dulce de Leche Coffee.

 
 
Then there’s dessert. There’s always dessert. Sometimes, entire meals are simply an excuse to have dessert after. In keeping with the “light” theme of the shower, I looked for some recipes that either featured berries or citrus, or delivered chocolate in single portions. (Because chocolate is always, always a good choice.) These are just a handful of the possibilities I found.

 

Tasty Kitchen Blog: The Theme is Bridal Showers! (Dessert)Clockwise from top left: Chocolate Indulgence In A Cup from Bindi, Chocolate Mousse Tartlets from hautelikesouth, Light and Springy Chocolate Souffles by sprinklebakes, Lemon Triangles from barefootbelle, and Individual Raspberry Cobblers from Ree.

 
 
Now, someone said there has to be cake at a shower. That it’s a requirement. I don’t know who made that rule, but I’m not fighting it. So whether your plans are to serve actual cake, or to comply with the “rule” by serving a cheesecake or some cupcakes, here are a few suggestions that are hoping to make it to your dessert menu.

 

Tasty Kitchen Blog The Theme is Bridal Showers! (Cake)Left column, from top to bottom: Lime and Ginger Cheesecake from lhewitt and Birthday Carrot Cake from The Noshery. Middle column, from top to bottom: Grapefruit and Lime Cake with a Citrus Glaze from missamy, Mini Chocolate Mocha Cupcakes from Miss Jen, and the incredibly cute Tiramisushi from sprinklebakes. Right column, from top to bottom: Fresh Blackberry Cake from Amy Locurto, Tiramisu Cheesecake with Espresso Glaze from islandvittles, and so those with special dietary needs don’t feel left out, a dairy-free, wheat-free Raw Vegan Cheesecake from maebird.

 
 
And now, I think I just managed to convince myself to throw a bridal shower for someone. What a wonderful way to celebrate a lovely gal’s special journey, surrounded by her friends and family, all wholeheartedly showing her that they’ll always be with her, every step of the way. I always enjoyed it when the women who have been married the longest are asked to share with the young bride their secret to a happy and lasting marriage. It gives me an opportunity to learn more about these lovely ladies, and the wisdom that they impart is always priceless.

 
How about you? Do you have a bridal shower to plan, or one that you’re attending? What do you enjoy most about them? Ooh, do you have any favorite bridal shower games or activities? Do tell!

 
 

43 Comments

Comments are closed for this recipe.

Courtney on 8.4.2010

I know this is a little late coming, but a fantastic idea for entertainment is video taping the groom-to-be and asking him questions about his soon-to-be-bride. My sisters did this for me and it was a crack-up. I since then have done it for every bridal shower I ahve thrown. And for the grooms that were not available to videotape I called them and asked them questions over the phone. Also I asked the bride how she thought her fiance would answer. So fun!

Suzz on 4.27.2010

Black bottom cupcakes are my favorite new recipe to date. Made them for my birthday and everybody loved it.

Whitney allison yoder on 4.27.2010

Chocolate Sheet cake, for sure!!!

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stephhoney on 4.27.2010

So, I made my first recipe post with bridal showers in mind! I gave up my favorite appetizer recipe-fast, easy, economical, and freezer friendly! I’m new here-I hope I’m doing this right! So far I’m loving this website!

Angela on 4.27.2010

I like the eggplant parmesian and the bacon-vegtable fried rice. Both different and tasty.

rebekahd on 4.27.2010

I don’t have a favorite tk recipe, but my favorite recipe of all time is my mom’s taco soup.
It’s like the best chili you’ve ever had with queso and some more rotel added in.
It’s wonderful!

LadyG on 4.27.2010

what a feature!!! i have many new recipes to try….and SOON!!!

Theresa Meacham on 4.27.2010

love the pasta salad with fresh mozzarella!!!

Bobbe George on 4.27.2010

We love Steven’s Oven Baked Chimichangas!

Golda Lucas on 4.27.2010

Salty, Sweet and Simple Bars by pokehorse were fantastic – nothing like fritos as a base for a great sweet.

Melissa V on 4.25.2010

Well i’m already married so a bridal shower is out but I wouldn’t complain to a baby shower. ;)

Marie Toni on 4.23.2010

I will be getting married in Oct. But no bridal shower for me! We have been a couple for 16 years and there is really nothing we need. But I have agreed to a small cocktail party for our close friends. No gifts. I do have a few requirements for the menu now – the menfolk can eat small bites and survive! Thanks for sharing!!

Julie @savvyeats on 4.22.2010

I am getting married next month, and my bridal shower is next Saturday… my maid of honor was just asking for recipe ideas today, so I’ll be sending her this link!

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littlewit on 4.22.2010

I will be the guest of honour at a shower in July and I would love to just forward these recipes to my party planners! They look delicious!

Julie Seamons on 4.22.2010

I could use some great ideas for a baby shower! That is up and coming in my future for my daughters. We’ve done the bridal showers and have moved on to babies! Sweet! I get to be a grandma!

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sweetebakes on 4.22.2010

I don’t even have any bridal showers to attend this summer (as far as I know right now-that could definitely change) but I am still going to figure out places I can make some of these yummy treats!!

Niki on 4.22.2010

Awesome! I am planning my sister’s bridal shower for July! What yummy options!

Lauren O. on 4.22.2010

I got married in June last year!

Chrisgelica on 4.22.2010

Im planning a shower around June/July, am totally going to use some of these! thanks so much!

Aileen on 4.21.2010

This post came at a perfect time! Hosting a shower for my cousin next weekend and looking for some good recipes. Thanks!

The Bush League Cook on 4.21.2010

This looks beautiful! What great ideas!

Sheryll on 4.21.2010

ahhh…..we just had my daughter’s bridal shower a few days ago (sunday). this would have been so helpful in our planning. maybe i can use some of these recipes for her bridal luncheon right before the wedding. thanks for all the great ideas.

Audreystyle on 4.21.2010

Wow, Bridget, you ARE going to be busy! I hope you have plenty of help.

Megan on 4.21.2010

This is the post I’ve been looking for! All of my friends seem to be getting married all at once and it has fallen to me to plan their showers, parties, etc. I’m always at a loss for what to make! Thanks for so many great ideas!

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crazylalalulu on 4.21.2010

I wish this had been posted a month ago when we had my daughter’s bridal shower. Ah well, still plenty of good things to make the day after the wedding when everyone will converge on my house for more food.
Thank you for a wonderful post.

Kelly O on 4.21.2010

I will totally volunteer myself for anyone who would like to try these at a baby shower. I’m due in mid-October and will travel for P-Dub goodness.

I might even kiss you if you bring the lemon triangles.

Evie on 4.21.2010

I have a baby shower coming up. Great ideas!

Nothing says baby like some cupcakes.

My Modern Country on 4.21.2010

Giving a shower next month-Thanks for the yummy ideas.

Michelle on 4.21.2010

Do you want to help plan mine? It’s in the DC/VA area in July! I don’t want mine to be all about the games just good food, drinks and friends!

Bridget on 4.21.2010

You wanna come live with me this summer???? I have and are helping plan/host 3-weddings, 3-bridal showers, 3-bachlorette parties, 3-30th Birthday Parties, 2- Jack and Jill Showers, 1-40th wedding anniversary, 1-10th Birthday Party and 1-5th Birthday Party!!! Did I mention that I’m also involved in Youth Football & Cheerleading that starts in July??? NO, well I can’t wait for September, hehe!!! Actually I’m really looking forward to cracking open my cookbooks (the real ones, and the online ones) to find some PERFECT dishes and desserts for all the Festivities!!!

Audreystyle on 4.21.2010

I want to throw a bridal shower now, but I don’t know anybody that is getting married. Well, I guess I can start taste testing the recipes now so that I can pick which ones I want to use when the day comes that I can host a bridal shower.

Congratulations to those of you getting married soon!

Carolyn W on 4.21.2010

I’m getting married in October! How perfect!

Sending this to my MOH stat!

Laura Brown on 4.21.2010

The food isn’t just good for bridal showers…baby showers use this too! Perfect for some of us who are expecting…in September, so start planning for me now! :)

highlandviewpantry on 4.21.2010

One of the best bridal showers I went to served a salad that you could add your own toppings to including grilled chicken. It was simple and tasty and good for picky eaters. My favorite bridal shower activity was at my shower. My mom gave everyone notecards and asked them to write down marital advice for me. She then put them all in a little photo album for me to keep. I still remember my husband’s cousin’s advice – Never clean out his closet without asking him. What must she have thrown away?

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sparkysticks on 4.21.2010

I am getting married in 39 days but have no shower planned. This food makes me wish I did. :)

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3bakingsheets on 4.21.2010

My sister threw me an amazing Japanese (represent!) tea-themed shower last year. She built a 10′ long table and a custom floor cushion for each ladyfriend to sit on. Her husband and his friend served us small plates of dumplings, ginger-dressed salad, edamame, teriyaki chicken and steamed rice.

And sake. Oh, the sake.

It was the best shower I’ve ever been to. Although I might be a bit (completely) biased.

Lee on 4.21.2010

My wedding is in September and my showers start in June. I’m passing this link along to my bridesmaids and best friends! Thanks!

Natasha R on 4.21.2010

I’m in the process of planning a bridal shower for my sister. Excellent timing on this post! :-)

Also, like Erika said shower games and activity suggestions are welcome!

melissa on 4.21.2010

At the risk of being the buzzkill, it’s still an expression of how UNempowered women were that dowries (the bride’s father paying the groom to take her) were even an issue.

But that doesn’t mean we can’t have good cake. ;)

Amy from She Wears Many Hats (missamy) on 4.21.2010

Whoa, that Lime and Ginger cheesecake looks mighty tempting! Going to check it out now.

Emily F. on 4.21.2010

I love shower foods! I saw some adorable individual trifles in jam jars on here somewhere that I think would be SO perfect for a shower also. Although now I can’t find the recipe…

DJL on 4.21.2010

Saving this link for Mother’s day!

Jessica @ How Sweet on 4.21.2010

What a great idea to focus on! I actually have one on Saturday, but it’s fully planned. :) For my own, we had tons of tapas and lots of cupcakes. It was almost more fun that the wedding. :)