Bridal or bridesmaids' luncheons are intimate gatherings, generally hosted by the bride's attendants or by the bride and her mother. These all-female gatherings are held to thank the bridesmaids, and will usually be a day or two before the wedding day. In terms of formal bridal luncheon etiquette, it doesn't necessarily have to be a lunch party, it could also be afternoon tea, a cocktail party, brunch or dinner.

The main reasons for the bridesmaids' luncheon are to socialize the bridesmaids, and/or enable the bride and her mother to thank the bridesmaids. In this respect, it's a great opportunity to give bridesmaids a gift of appreciation. Guests do not need to take gifts to bridal luncheon parties. A modern bridal luncheon can encompass many social situations; the party could be held on the wedding day itself, and involve trips to manicurists, beauticians or makeup artists.

The bridal luncheon is an opportunity for the key female players in the wedding to get to know each other. The guest list should include the bride, maid or matron of honor, all bridesmaids, the flower girl and her mother, and mothers of the bride and groom. Additionally, it's a nice gesture to invite sisters of the bride and groom, and grandmothers of the bride and groom.