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In appreciation and gratitude for their
participation in her wedding, it is traditional for the bride to treat her maids
to a party. It may be an elegant afternoon tea, dinner out at the finest
restaurant, or a pizza extravaganza held in a private home. It doesn't so much
matter, the formality of the affair, but the importance is in making everyone
feel comfortable and that they have a good time.
The
luncheon is a perfect time for introducing out-of-town attendants, schedule
final dress fittings, display wedding gifts, and distribute presents to the
maids. Items of jewelry, chosen especially to be worn as accessories during the
wedding, make popular gift items given to attendants today.
A delightful tradition, bringing old world
customs into the wedding, includes baking a ring, coin or thimble inside a pink
cake for desert. Strawberry cake is perfect for this occasion when decorated
with fluffy pink frosting. Legend says that the fair maiden whose slice of cake
contains the trinket will be the next to wed.
Another rendition suggests the one, whose slice
of cake contains the trinket, will be "blessed in affairs of the
heart." Sentimental verses or fortunes, written on pink paper and carefully
wrapped in and protected by tin foil, then baked in the cake, is another great
idea. Want to be sure everyone receives a token? Carefully place each trinket
between two layers of cake, after baking, while marking where the tokens reside.
Later when cutting the cake, follow the markings to know where to cut, giving
each person their own surprise.
Bridesmaid luncheons are held between one and two
weeks prior to the wedding. Last minute luncheons are generally scheduled late,
on purposes, allowing out-of-town attendants to arrive and participate in some
of the festivities surrounding the wedding.
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