There are a number of pre-wedding events that happen before the big day, but few are more exciting than the bridal shower. A time when female family members and friends gather to celebrate the bride-to-be and help prepare her for married life, the bridal shower is a chance for the woman of the hour to spend quality time with the most important ladies in her life and prepare for her future as a newlywed. And though bridal showers have been happening for a very long time, the etiquette for these affairs has certainly changed over time. To help you understand exactly what to expect from these events—whether you're the hostess or an attendee—we talked to etiquette expert Diane Gottsman and asked her to share exactly what happens at a bridal shower and how to plan the perfect party.