Learn a New Skill at Your Bridal Shower

I just heard a great idea and had to share it with you all. Bridal showers traditionally are a simple luncheon with goofy games that gently poke fun at the bride while celebrating her.

Yet an increasingly popular option is to do a group activity - such as going to the spa or a wine tasting. Why not expand on this idea by learning a skill together that can help you make your wedding more personal and less expensive? Many cooking schools offer one day classes - see if you can find one that's specifically about baking or decorating cakes. Once you've picked up some useful skills, you and your maid of honor can undertake the task of baking and decorating your wedding cake! (Don't worry, you don't have to bake a cake to feed 200 people - make a simple one to display, and a sheet cake to serve the additional people.)

Another option is taking a floral arranging class. Check with your YMCA, or adult education center to see if they already have someone teaching such classes, or contact your favorite florist. You'll probably want to arrange a private one-day class that will focus on hand-held bouquets rather than vase arrangements.

If you did want to go the spa route, throw in a makeup application lesson, so that the bridesmaids will be experts in time for the big day.