 Showers are almost always informal gatherings with a simple menu and often only include cake, mints and punch.  The hostess issues invitations by telephone, mail, or in person. It is considered in poor taste to invite people who do not personally know the bride, although, they may be friends of her family or fiancé.  A shower may be the time, chosen by the mother of the groom, for instance, to bring family and close friends to meet her prospective daughter-in-law.  Showers are not times to call in social obligations.

The Bachelor Party The bachelor dinner or party is another one of those optional customs and has long held a reputation as the last chance for the groom and his attendants to release their pre- wedding jitters. The dinner may be hosted by the groom's friends or by the groom himself, in much the same way the bride hosts the bridesmaid luncheon. It is the perfect time for him to pass out gifts of appreciation to his best man. Unlike the custom of giving gifts which can be worn during the wedding, as in the case of the brides attendants, the gifts received by the grooms attendants are more likely not to be worn or used in the wedding. Gifts often include engraved money clips, steins, or knives, but the ideas are endless.

The Rehearsal Dinner The wedding rehearsal is followed by a dinner for members of the wedding party. The grooms parents traditionally are responsible for the financial obligation of the rehearsal dinner, however any other close relative or friend may do the honor. All attendants, the bride and her fiancé's immediate families, the officiate and spouse, as well as any out-of-town guests are included in the guest list. Family and friends of the bride or the host may also be invited.