I've never been fake about my feelings on bridal showers.
We women (who have a sense of humor), often snicker to one another while the bride "ooooohs" and "ahhhhhhhs" and "OH MY GODs" at her gifts. We're all like, "Why are we pretending this is a surprise? You literally told me exactly what you buy you from your hand-selected registry and I bought it! IT'S A $50 CHEESE PLATE. REMEMBER, YOU PICKED IT!?!?!"
Needless to say, after getting engaged, I was absolutely dreading having to be in the hot seat... Not one, not two, but three times.
Shower Palooza.
Shower Palooza.
Karma is a real bitch, and I knew damn well how I felt going to a gazillion bridal showers, so I certainly knew how all of my girlfriends and family members felt driving to the suburbs for mine. Wooof. But here's the thing. It was totally delightful and, thanks to champagne and Corona Light, you quickly get over the hot seat and GENUINELY are excited to receive the gifts that you picked. And in a weird way, it IS a surprise! I can't quite explain it.
I haven't experienced everything in life yet, but it's on my list. So, for now, I will say this: Perspective is massively important.
Prior to being married, I never actually understood the magnanimity of what it feels like to have everyone you love surrounding you in one room. That the emotion is so thick you can hardly speak without your bottom lip quivering. That it's not at all about the gifts. That I had it all wrong before.
Prior to being married, I never actually understood the magnanimity of what it feels like to have everyone you love surrounding you in one room. That the emotion is so thick you can hardly speak without your bottom lip quivering. That it's not at all about the gifts. That I had it all wrong before.
From now on, when I drive to Bumblefuck to attend a bridal shower, I will fully recognize that the event isn't at all about me. It's not at all about the present you give. It's 110% entirely about your presence. It's about showing up for your friend so that she can feel engulfed by so much love she can hardly breathe. It's about being part of a singular moment that will take her breath away. And it also just might very well suck! But let me tell you from firsthand experience, you are significant to someone else and that is a true blessing.
To the magnificent women who hosted my bridal showers, THANK YOU WITH ALL MY HEART! To those who attended, THANK YOU BEYOND MEASURE. To those whose showers I will be invited to in the future, you bet your ass I'll be there with bells on! Thank YOU in advance for inviting me :)
