- The idea behind an around the clock bridal shower is that each guest is assigned a certain time of day. The guests then choose a gift that corresponds with that time. For example, if a guest is assigned noon, a gourmet picnic basket would be an appropriate gift. A guest who is assigned midnight might purchase a set of luxurious sheets.
- If you have 24 guests or more, you can assign each person an exact hour of the day. However, if you feel that is too restrictive (what gift corresponds with 3 a.m.?), or you have a small guest list, you can have a different type of around the clock shower. For example, you can break up the times into segments, such as "5 to 7 a.m." You can also give names to different times of the day, such as "Suppertime."
- You can have a lot of fun with food and decorations for an around the clock shower. Borrow lots of clocks from friends and neighbors. Hang and set them all about the room. If you can find clocks that tick loudly, chime on the quarter hour, or a cuckoo clock or two, better yet. Serve foods from distinctively different times of the day. For instance, you might have a tray of donuts, small sandwiches and mini-bagel pizzas.
- One upside to throwing an around the clock shower is that there is less of a chance that the bride will receive duplicates of an item. Although you might think it would be more of a challenge, it can actually make shopping easier for the guests. Because they are assigned to a certain time of day, it narrows down their choices. They can still use the bridal registry, if desired. They will simply need to ascertain which gift best suits their designated time.
- While some guests might be resistant to having a time of day imposed upon them, once you point out the benefits of this shower theme as well as how much fun it will be, they will likely concede. Even if they do not, or someone either intentionally or accidentally brings a gift that does not pertain to their assigned time, just let it go. The shower will still be enjoyable and the bride will still receive lovely and practical gifts.
