Parties, Favored

Brides (and their worn-out maids) deserve more than the same old gift-and-snack snoozefest. Good hosts get behind these new twists on classic showers.


The Wine Tasting

unique wedding showers

Jonathan Alsop breaks down wine aromas; Photograph by Greg Bolosky.

Slightly more, um, alcoholic than a tea tasting is an afternoon of fine wine. (Tip: Try to prearrange transportation home.) The Boston Wine School’s casual classroom works equally well for sit-down meals or less formal afternoon fetes. Host and teacher Jonathan Alsop guides groups through themed tastings; depending on the bride’s preference, that could mean a selection of California cabernets, an odyssey through the Loire Valley, or a survey of new Argentine blends. He pairs about six vintages with a hearty three-course meal, family-style tapas, or just enough cheese and charcuterie to clear the palate between sips. As entertaining as he is educated on the fruits of the vine, Alsop moves the class along, keeping attendees in a focused—if slightly fuzzy—state.

BUDGET OPTION

unique wedding showers

Photograph courtesy of Istockphoto

Host an in-home tasting. Ask guests to bring two bottles of their favorite wine, plus notes on good food pairings. Hit up a cheese store like Formaggio Kitchen to stock up on crackers, cheese, and a few appetizers. Pick up wine glasses and notepads, then start the party by cracking open one bottle at a time (remember to keep the pours small). Gift any remaining bottles to the bride, and she’ll walk away with a well-stocked bar.

Starting at $50 per person, Boston Wine School, 1354 Commonwealth Ave., Allston, 617-784-7150, bostonwineschool.com; Formaggio Kitchen, 244 Huron Ave., Cambridge, 617-354-4750, formaggiokitchen.com.

Go on to the next page to read about the spa day…