Combine fragrant soaps, tasty snacks and sexy lingerie and what do you get? You've got Girl Fun 101. It's the makings of a great bridal shower and a fantastic way to enjoy a pre-marital festivity in a relaxed environment accompanied by those close to the bride So, what are the points to cover when planning such a fun affaire? The guidelines are really up to you, however here are some tips to get you started:

1. Who plans it?
The host of this event is usually the bride's maid of honor.
2. Budget
While the maid of honor is traditionally responsible for the expenses, the bride's family often assists by providing the location or invites.
3. Guest List
Organize your guest list by asking the bride and groom who they would like to have at the shower. Get address, phone numbers and email addresses. Decide if it will be a "girl's only" shower or "couples".
4. Theme
Decide on a theme that ties in with the bride's personality and style. A few ideas follow to help inspire you.
5. Selecting the menu
Although your menu should reflect your theme, aim for simplicity to make this a day of relaxation for the bride, her guests, and yourself.
6. Location
Choose a location that is easy to get to and will easily accommodate the needs of the party.
7. Select the date
The bridal shower is normally around eight weeks before the wedding.

Here are a few suggestions for some really creative bridal shower themes. This is where you can let your creative juices start flowing.

One of my favorites is the "Healthy Bride" shower. This is for the bride who loves to work out; include healthy snacks such as smoothies and a salad bar. Gift suggestions are healthy cookbooks, workout videos, sexy workout wear, and sports equipment. A fun favor idea for this party is a sports bottle for each of the guests. Check out having personalized sports bottles or sports towels made up to commemorate this occasion through promotional events companies. Most companies will custom imprint orders as small as one or two dozen.

Another clever idea brides love is the "All Girl Stress-Be-Gone" shower. Decorate this gathering with scented candles, relaxing music and facials for everyone. Facialists, manicurists and even masseuses can be retained for a comfortable at-home splurge. Gifts ideas would be anything that involves pampering, including a cozy robe, gift certificates for a manicure, pedicure, facial, or a visit to her favorite spa.

One idea catching on out on the West coast are botox bridal showers; plump lips and smooth complexions for all. Or try a pick-a-room shower such as kitchen-only or bathroom-only gifts. On the other hand sleepover showers and house party showers are a fun way to ease the bride into her newly purchased house. Another fun idea is the stock-the-bar shower where guests bring wine, champagne and wonderful bar accessories and supplies to stock the new couple's bar, or if you're opting for tradition, the lingerie shower is still a favorite.

Bridal showers range in size, cost and can draw from a host of ideas and themes to produce that very memorable gathering. So, when arranging your event, select the style and budget to reflect a fun party for all, especially the bride. Make it creative, fun and simple. Should you begin to feel a bit overwhelmed, let the words of John Lennon free you up to call in some help from others in the bridal party-- "I get by with a little help from my friends".