Just What Is a Bridesmaids' Tea

Photo by Better Tie Productions

The other day someone asked me just what a bridal tea is and do we need to have one. A bridal tea, also called the bridal luncheon or bridesmaid’s luncheon is a thank you party given by the bride for her bridesmaids and any close family or friends that have helped with the wedding planning.

Normally, this luncheon is given a day or two before the wedding or occasionally on the wedding day. The bride and her mom normally are the ones giving this luncheon. It may be held at a restaurant or at home. It usually consists of light foods, such as salads or fruits and is followed up with a traditional bridesmaids cake. It is almost always a small intimate gathering. Most of the time the colors of the luncheon or the tea reflect the colors of the upcoming wedding, but this is not a requirement.

This is the one party where the bride does not receive gifts. Instead she gives gifts, thanking those attending for all their help, time and expenses invested in making her dream wedding day possible.