I (Sarah Kolis) had the honor of hosting a bridal shower for Melissa in my own backyard, and it turned out to be such a cherished memory! With so many wonderful friends and family coming together to celebrate the bride-to-be, the day was filled with love, laughter, and lots of beautiful moments to cherish forever!

Overcoming a Rainy Start

Our day began with a bit of a hiccup—a beautiful rainstorm. Thankfully, my dad and Billy quickly sprang into action, heading to Menards to create the most adorable woodchip path through the backyard to our old back garage where the shower was hosted. Despite the rain, the event ran smoothly in our enclosed garage, complete with a covered porch. We set up five beautifully decorated tables with white chivari chairs and light blue tablecloths, adorned with floral centerpieces and candles, transforming the space into a magical setting.

Games and Pretty Things

After a bit of mingling time, we kicked off the festivities with some shower activities. Guests enjoyed a round of bridal bingo and the ‘Guess the Dress’ game, where guests had the chance to “design” a.k.a “guess” what Melissa’s dress would look like with their very own sketch! Cam ended up choosing Anne Wolf’s couture design as the lucky winner! The couple also played the classic “shoe game” which is always a hit! Pro tip- Cam was wearing socks with Melissa’s picture all over, way to go Cam!! If you’re planning a shower, go ahead and order a pair of these for the groom if you plan to play this game, how fun!!! (see them below!!)

Each table setting included adorable little notebooks from Rifle Paper Co. as party favors, an idea I borrowed from a client who had thrown a stunning shower for her daughter. I also invested in $3 white glass plates to have for years to come, plastic gold silverware, and mismatched glassware from local estate sales, which all added a unique charm to the event. We even had custom “Melissa’s Bridal Shower” pens as souvenirs, a nod to the bachelorette party pens I had previously created. By the way, if you haven’t yet listened to episode #34 of the Dressing Up podcast all about the Melissa’s Nashville Bachelorette, you can do so here!

Speeches

Bride’s favorite sister Sarah (me!) gave a speech to kick-off the event, explaining how the shower will go and thanking all the people whom have put great hard work into making this event so special…especially father-of-the-bride Don Kolis, who spontaneously walked by and decided to give a quick speech in the moment all about the light construction done on this backyard barn space. Blessing given by mother-of-the-bride Cynthia!

Sunshine and Celebrations

Fortunately, the rain stopped just as the party began, and the sun eventually broke through. After about half an hour of mingling, we officially started the party with the shoe game, as mentioned. This fun activity showcased how perfect Cam and Melissa are for each other. Next, we enjoyed a delicious meal catered by Genetti’s, followed by the lengthy gift opening. The sheer number of gifts was overwhelming, but we all settled in together to witness Melissa and Cam’s excitement as they unwrapped everything from kitchen supplies to bedding and heartfelt notes. We could feel the love!

A Touch of Fashion

Melissa looked stunning in a custom Sarah Kolis dress, made from gorgeous embroidered silk organza, a truly high-quality art of a fabric. When designing all her bridal wardrobe looks, we wanted to make them all different from one another. So, this look was the more full skirt look of the collection. A bow of course! Come to think of it, each and every one of her bridal wardrobe pieces includes a bow! Semi-unintentionally, I suppose bows are just in that Cynthia Kolis bloodline. I made my own dress too for the shower, the week before and I couldn’t help myself, but that too included a beautiful back halter bow that had tails draping down the back. I used my beloved vintage floral fabric that I only save for super super special occasions, and this event was one of them!

Can’t forget the special mother-of-the-bride Cynthia Kolis! She too debuts a brand new Sarah Kolis original for her daughter’s special event!!

Capturing the Moment

Brittany Allen came in to save the day last-minute as a fabulous event photographer and did an incredible job! She captured this event so beautifully and even got some spontaneous couple’s shots too! Thank you Brittany!! You can reach her on Instagram at @brittany___Allen, or website brittanyallen.com! Be sure to browse the gallery below!!

Tips for Attending a Bridal Shower

Whether you’re hosting or attending a shower, these tips can help make the event truly special:

1. RSVP Promptly: Even if you can’t attend, let the host know as soon as possible.
2. Gift Thoughtfully: Choose something from the registry and feel free to add a personal touch.
3. Be Punctual: Arrive on time or within 10 minutes of the start.
4. Offer Help: If you’re close to the couple, offer to assist the host before or during the event.
5. Stay Positive: Keep a cheerful attitude throughout the event.
6. Greet Key People: Make sure to say hello to the couple, their parents, the host, and siblings.
7. End with Kindness: Conclude with a heartfelt “see you at the wedding!”

Tips for Hosting a Bridal Shower

1. Home Sweet Home: Consider hosting at home to save costs, despite the added preparations.
2. Gather Helpers: Don’t hesitate to ask bridesmaids or family for assistance with tasks like desserts, party favors, setup, and cleanup.
3. Special Touches: Get a corsage for the bride.
4. Capture Memories: Hire a photographer if your budget allows, or at least a designated attendee.
5. Wine is a Winner: Keep plenty of wine on hand!
6. Thank You: Give a quick thank-you speech to all involved.
7. Game Prizes: Consider simple, bride and groom-themed gifts.
8. Involve Family: Include close family members in roles such as leading games, giving blessings, or helping with gift opening.

Hosting Melissa’s bridal shower was a joyous occasion filled with unforgettable moments.

Special Thanks

• Photography: Brittany Allen Photography
• Rentals: Elegant Events
• Florals: The Flower Alley
• Catering: Genetti’s in Northville
• Valet: Provided by the Schreiber family
• Bartender: Kevin Dombek
• Cleanup: Bell Clean-up Crew
• Garage Re-design: Painting and electrical work by Don’s Outdoor Services
• Landscaping: Bill Bell and Team