I read a article on a message board recently with an interesting question. A guest had been invited to a bridal shower that was being done as an Open House, meaning guests were free to come and go as they please. Is this okay? Yes it is – provided it is done right and it has some benefits:

- More time with each guest as they are not there all at once

- If you have a larger guest list, you can still fit them all in your house

If you are considering hosting a Open House, here are a few guidelines you can follow to make sure that all your guests have a pleasant experience.

1. Greet each guest personally and offer then refreshments and a seat. Make sure there is enough room in case a bunch show up at once. You do not want anyone feeling out of place.

2. Open gifts as they arrive and give a personal thanks. Then, place the gift with the card in a visible place so others can see what other guests brought.

3. Plan some games and regular bridal shower activities that guests can participate in when they come in.

4. Try to take a few minutes to talk one on one with each guest before they leave and when they do leave, make sure you say thank you and walk them out.

In the end – your goal is to provide just as nice of a time as they would have had at a more traditional shower. You want each guest to stay as long as they please – and never to feel rushed or out of place.