Bridal Shower Etiquette

Dear Amy: I have never written to any columnist but this question has never been quite clear to me. I am invited to my nieces bridal shower and I was wondering if on the card that is attached to the gift, do I put both mine and my husband’s name or just mine. As far as that goes, any shower that I’m invited to (he has never been invited to one) whether it be my niece or just a friend. I’ve always thought since we are married then I should put his name on it but on the same note, he wasn’t invited (ladies only shower) so what is the etiquette here?

I know it isn’t that big of a deal but it is something I’ve always wondered.

Dear Reader: Since husband and wife share finances, you are sharing the cost of the gift. Therefore, both names are put on the gift card, even though your husband does not attend the shower. If you are giving a piece of lingerie and it is a gift from you to her, the card would only have your name on it even though you and your husband share finances.

It is bridal shower etiquette to include the wedding party members—and the mothers. Thus, men are invited. However, the trend in recent years is that men usually only come for an hour, and then, they go to a sports bar or one of their homes, for some ‘guy time.’ Enjoy this wonderful event.

Amy