Why do Women receive a Bridal Shower?

The custom of throwing a bridal shower for women about to get married is common practice throughout the United States and Canada. Where did this custom originate? What brought it about? Why is it called a "shower?" How does it work? The answers to these questions may surprise you.
It is believed that this custom was brought about as a natural growth from ancient dowry practices. In the case of a woman whose family was too poor to provide her a proper dowry, Her friends would get together and throw her a party where they would give her gifts to make up a dowry she could take into the marriage. This practice was also implemented for young ladies who chose a husband her family disapproved of and, therefore, refused to provide her with a dowry.
An often told legend places the origins of the practice of the bridal shower in sixteenth century Holland. The practice actually originated in the American colonies, but publications mentioning such events did not appear until about 1860 in Brussels, Belgium. It became a common practice in cities in the United States among the moderately wealthy families around 1890. The practice soon spread to rural areas and less affluent ladies.
The term bridal shower has a couple of possible origins. One possibility is that it is so called because the guests shower the bride to be with gifts, referring to the number of gifts given at such an occasion. The more likely reason is that during Victorian times, it was common practice to place small gifts inside a parasol. When the bride to be would open the parasol, the gifts would shower down around her.
The modern version of the bridal shower is more of a party thrown for the prospective bride by her bridesmaids and closest friends. Often the soon to be mother-in-law is also involved. The custom of giving the bride gifts for her home is still practiced, though not all gifts are as practical as they once were. The ladies attending the shower play games, offer "advice" and generally enjoy themselves. Sometimes, a male stripper is hired to come in and perform. This is most likely to offset the fact that a stripper is often part of a man's bachelor party.
The custom of throwing a bridal shower for women about to get married is common practice throughout the United States and Canada. This practice originated in the British colonies, but legends take its roots back to Europe in the sixteenth century. It came about as an extension of common dowry practices. Their are a couple of reasons it called a shower. Today, what it is a party for the bride to be with gifts, games, and entertainment.

Bridal Shower | Wedding Party