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Anyone who has taken the plunge in planning a wedding knows the months leading up to the big day can be filled with anticipation, anxiety, stress, and even a few ugly moments. Calm the bridezilla in any bride with a spa party bridal shower. Many of today's brides welcome a modern alternative to the traditional bridal shower games and sugary cake. In fact, more and more showers are being planned with activities held outside the home.

To get started, find fun invitations with a spa theme. Clearly state on the invitation what will be involved and whether or not guests should bring presents for the bride. For example, the invite might read, "Join us for a day of pampering and fun with an afternoon at the spa before Jennifer's big day." Explain to guests what is needed for their spa activities. For instance, if the group will be indulging in a manicure or pedicure treatment, include that information and the cost. Provide guests with the opportunity to bring a spa- or beauty treatment-themed present. It's not uncommon for guests to pay for their own services and pitch in for the bride's treatments. Or the party host may choose to cover the cost of an inexpensive treatment for each guest.

Next, find a spa that will work with you in creating an unforgettable day of pampering. For instance, at the Willow Stream at The Fairmont Scottsdale Princess in Scottsdale, Arizona, girlfriends are treated to a yoga class, followed by a waterfall massage in the eucalyptus gratto pool, a healthful lunch, and a spa treatment of each girl's choice. The day ends with prickly pear lemonade at the rooftop pool.

In Chicago, girlfriends splurge with the bride for a spa tea party at the Ruby Room in a historic neighborhood of Chicago. The loft-like setting creates an unforgettable ambiance with services including yoga, a beauty bar, the healing lounge, and the Rejuvenation Spa to refuel and relax spirits.

Most spas can arrange food and cocktails for the celebration, and this is an ideal time to gather for a light lunch, cake and present opening. Most spas will handle scheduling details as well. Be prepared to pay a nonrefundable 50% deposit of scheduled services.

When it comes to bridal shower gifts, encourage guests to think of pampering items for the bride-to-be. Guests might go into together for a spa certificate or choose items such as a plush robe, pampering cream, hair product, or beauty accessory. The host may also treat guests with a goody bag to remember their day of pampering and to thank them for coming. At-home, mineral-essential facial masks, manicure accessories, or department store samples make fun and appreciated gifts.

For those who enjoy the privacy and comfort of home, consider throwing an at-home spa bridal or bachelorette party. These days, girlfriends are throwing off the tired ideas of strip clubs and silly games to indulge in a spa party with the bride-to-be. Many cities offer mobile spa services that bring the spa to your home.

Baring as much as they dare, groups may book a mobile spa service to perform on-site Brazilian waxes and bikini waxes (done individually). Bathing suit or lingerie shopping is an obvious add on and make a great gift for the bride. Martinis and appetizers are also popular choices.

With locations throughout the United States, Sparty! was featured on Access Hollywood for show host Nancy O'Dell's bridal party. Facials, massages, pedicures and cocktails highlight, as well as plush robes for the guests make Sparty one of the hottest ways today to celebrate this special time. Additional spa services can be added on to packages for a truly indulgent party guests will be talking about for months to come.

The Signature Martini and Manicure Party is popular with brides and their girlfriends who enlist the services of Spa On The Go in Chicago. Each guest is served Apple Martinis while receiving a professional manicure. For groups of 7 or more, groups enjoy everything from spa treatments to professional makeup services.

The focus on today's bridal showers is on pampering and fun. Spa bridal showers give friends and family an opportunity to enjoy one another's company, renew, and relax during an exciting and sometimes stressful time. It's a perfect way to give the bride-to-be a chance to catch her breath, enjoy the day, and create memories which will last a lifetime.