Bridal Shower Alternative?

lodonnell616

Good Morning!

Background: My fiance and I live in Europe (in a non-english speaking country) and will be having our wedding in my hometown in the U.S.

We looked into registering but U.S. based stores, while they now ship to the country we live in, the shipping costs are extremely high and there is the possibility that we will be liable for any customs/duties upon receipt (so we'd have to pay to receive gifts).  We also looked into registering locally but there are no english speaking alternatives which would allow people to order gifts online.

Now, the predicament:

My cousin has very kindly offered to throw us a shower, and I would realy love the opportunity to celebrate with my family and some of the local friends when we're over for a planning trip in a couple of months.  I know we can't really have a shower and say 'no gifts', but are there any other ways we could format the party?

Thanks in advance for any suggestions!

freebread03

If your cousin really wants to throw you a party, a shower isn't appropriate since the point of the shower is to give gifts.  However, she could host a luncheon or an open house in your honor, and invite those who would normally be invited to a shower.

MairePoppy

Ditto. Obviously, a shower isn't going to work out for you. Your cousin could cocktail or dessert party as a welcome home for you.

MeagC

I have no suggestions for the shower. I think what the other ladies said are good ideas.

I just want to say that you could look into an online money registry. We are using Wedistry.com but there are a few others.