Dad and I (stepmom) are funding quite a bit of this wedding. I am also sewing for our bride and her bridal party. And, I am also invited to a bridal shower for her. Do I also like need to buy a shower gift? What is the etiquette in this situation?

Janan

Donna, Wedding Queen, President; Top Wedding Sites, Inc

All of the tasks you’ve generously agreed to perform are your choice. But, when invited to a shower you need to bring a gift. If you’re feeling the pinch of the bad economy you can certainly select a gift based on your budget.

Brandi Hamerstone,

I will agree with the post answer above. You are doing these things as part of the wedding, not as wedding gifts. It is tradition for the bride’s parents to pay for the wedding, so this certainly shouldn’t be considered a “gift” when going to a shower. If finances are an issue, you can get her something small, or even create something “special” for her.

Donna, Wedding Queen, President; Top Wedding Sites, Inc

Even though in the past it has been traditional for the bride’s parents to pay for the wedding, times are changing and bridal couples are evolving into more independent people paying for their own weddings. So, although what you’ve offered can be considered as “gifts”, they are not bridal shower gifts.

Rebecca Black, Etiquette By Rebecca

I agree. Unfortunately, many are still not opting for the gift-less shower, which is fairer to guests and family who are also contributing and giving gifts for the wedding. It really is double gift dipping. But, it is what it is for now: a tired tradition that’s not representative of our lives, but one that is still in play. So, if we want to be polite, we abide by the “rules” of this game.