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Host-It Notes

Weddings and marriage are happy proof that two is better than one. So when it comes to the bridal shower, who says the bride should have all the fun? One modern trend I love is the co-ed bridal shower. Presided over by both the bride and groom, co-ed couples showers offer both male and female friends and family a chance to show their support and affection for the engaged couple. Make the most of this couples-friendly approach by hosting a  Perfect Pair  party. Whether cute and DIY is your style, or classic elegance, I ve got just the right party ideas to inspire.

 <strong>Perfect Pair Party: Cute Edition</strong>

Are you throwing a shower for a cute-as-a-button couple? Looking to incorporate handmade, quirky style? Brainstorm what items make the perfect pair and incorporate them in to your food and decor. Use bright and bubbly colors and free fonts to create and print posters with phrases like  You Are the Cheese to My Macaroni,   You are the Gin to my Tonic," "You are the Frosting to my Cupcake,  and  You are the Milk to My Shake . Serve adorable treats to match your prints like crustless PBJ Bites, chocolate chip cookies served with a shotglass of milk, or fried macaroni and cheese balls. If passed hors d ouvres aren t your thing, create a  paired up  dessert bar. Make labels and desserts that pair two complementary flavors such as  Strawberry + Chocolate,   Cookies + Cream,   Raspberry + Mocha  and  Chocolate + Peanut Butter.  For party favors, try something edible like Chocolate-Dipped Double-Stuff Oreos.

 

<strong>Perfect Pair Party: Classy Edition</strong>

If you re looking to host a more upscale, romantic or elegant shower, create a menu that highlights ideal food and wine pairings. Serve 4-6 small plates or tapas paired with appropriate wines to delight the tastebuds of your guests and introduce them to new flavors. Fusion food is great if the couple hails from two different cultural backgrounds. Otherwise, take cues from the couple's favorite cuisines and restaurants when planning the dishes and select complementary wines. Bonus points if you find wine that triggers a fond memory of a place or time the couple shared. The  Perfect Pair  theme can be taken in a whole new, meaningful direction when you remember that each individual brings to the partnership their own traditions, culture, and personal passions. Another option is to play up the romance. Research the bride and groom s family history to find out what long-lasting couples fill their family tree. Frame old photos from their famous family love stories and write a small description of the couple for guests to read. Congratulate the guests of honor on being the next perfect pair in line.

Cute or classy, there are endless ways to dress up a "Perfect Pair" bridal shower. So go ahead, invite the boys!

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