Invite your friends into the comfort zone, the kitchen. A bridal shower around the kitchen bench is a nicely, homely thing to do; throw in a cooking class and it will become a sensational day of cooking secrets and freshly baked treats.

A pink on pink theme has the retro fun of the Stepford Wives without the computers. Make the menu no-fuss. How about pink frosted cup cakes, iced doughnuts, filled vol au vents, scones, curried egg sandwiches and vanilla home style cookies? Yes, please.

Guests could bring a small practical gift for the bride’s kitchen. Or if the bride already has well stocked gadget drawers, pool some money to pay for a chef to host a short cooking class for the group. Cute prizes for all cooking efforts will add a sporty edge.