Bridal Showers

Hosting a shower? The key to success is to keep it simple: It's a party that's meant to "shower" the bride with good wishes and gifts. If you don't feel like doing it all yourself, have the other moms and "maids" pitch in. (A little hint: Assign and email the recipes.) Here are five different parties, each complete with recipes and drink suggestions, to help you plan with ease.

A multi-course brunch feels both decadent and civilized — fork-and-knife dishes with the perfect mix of sweet and savory to keep your spirits up through midday. Mimosas (made with freshly squeezed orange juice) or bellinis (if peaches are in season) would be a classic pairing here.

• Pear Soup
• Cheese Strata with Ham and Tomatoes
• Mini-Orange Crumble Top Muffins with Orange Butter
• Mixed Greens Salad with Brown Butter Vinaigrette
• Raspberry Almond Tart
• Chocolate Truffles

Keep it classic here with scones, biscuits, finger sandwiches and cake. Serve an assortment of teas, both caffeinated and herbal, and sparkling water with fresh fruit.

• Simple Syrup for Sweetening Tea
• Smoked Salmon and Dill Egg Salad Tea Sandwiches
• Herbed Vidalia Onion Tea Sandwiches
• Homemade Fromage Blanc
• Cream Biscuits
• Blueberry Scones with Lemon Glaze
• Honey Bee Cake

For a mid-afternoon shower, all-dessert is a good way to go. A selection of sorbets surrounding an impressive yet simpleflower and ice centerpiece keeps it light and airy; flourless cake takes care of the chocolate urge. Dessert wines or Port are a great match, or try a punch as a counterpoint.

• Flower and Ice Centerpiece
• Key Lime Sorbet
• Mini Flourless Chocolate Cakes
• Lotta Chocolate Sorbet
• Lemon Coconut Roulade
• Fresh Strawberry Sorbet
• Chocolate Covered Strawberries

Invite the whole gang for an informal "coed" shower. Modern twists on classic comfort food are the perfect fit for your girls (and guys!). Cocktails, beer or red wine work well with this hearty fare.

• Caramelized Onion Toasts
• Italian-style Sausages, Onions and Peppers
• Warm Spicy Butter-Poached Shrimp
• Roasted Asian Chicken Wings
• Roasted Potato Salad
• Spring Celebration Carrot Cake

Have everyone bring a particular gadget — along with a recipe to go with it — for a practical spin on the bridal shower. Click on the gifts below for prices and shopping info from Shopzilla.com.