Hi - I got such good advice on planning a bachelorette party in nyc, that I thought I'd come back for help on the bridal shower that I'm planning.
I had been hoping to do it on a separately from the bachelorette, but because of scheduling difficulties, I may have to plan it in NY earlier that same day.
2 questions: 1) does this generally work out, doing both on the same day? I will likely invite everyone (mother of the bride, relatives etc) to the shower, and just the friends for the bachelorette.
and 2) any thoughts on location. I'm thinking a brunch/lunch someplace that wouldn't be too pricey.
Thanks!

Hi JK:

I can't offer you advise on doing both events on the same day. But I can tell you that my Bridal Shower was held a the Manhattan Grille on First Avenue @63rd Street in Manhattan and it was truly lovely. They offer a price fixed brunch/luncheon for the shower which I don't think is that expensive and they did a really beautiful job. They also section off a part of the main room and it is private and they put a table up for gifts - it was very special.

how many people?

Would having a Bridal Tea, be less expensive, but just as elegant and special as a lunch/brunch? Maybe it would help keep costs down, especially if you have to host both of these events the same weekend, or even the same day.

My guess is it would be around 20 people. I was thinking of a bridal tea as another option, but I do know that our group of friends enjoy a cocktail. I wasn't sure if a tea would necessarily exclude a mimosa, etc.

Is this over a weekend? If so my suggestion would be to do the Bridal Shower as a Sunday Brunch. Since you all will be in the city, pick a fabulous hotel and do the brunch around 10:30AM. Early I know but it is cheaper before 11AM in some places.

I bet there will be plenty of cocktails at the bachelorette party, I wouldn't worry about how much flows at the shower! LOL!

If you did a tea, I personally see nothing wrong with also serving champagne and mimosas.

Miss Elle's (Ellie's?) Homesick Bar & Grill for brunch upstairs. I helped organize a bridal shower there and it was very nice and the service was good & acccomodating.

Depending on your budget, you can also book a night in a penthouse suite at one of the many boutique hotels. I did a tea party bridal shower for my sister in '98 at the Shoreham Hotel. Everything came out beautiful and the staff was very accomodating there as well. Rent the china, purchase your flowers, wine, scones, tea at Chelsea Market and you're good to go!

Good luck & have fun!