Step-by-step guide to planning a bridal shower.

There is a lot of work that goes into putting a bridal shower together. Since bridal showers consists of many details, it is important to have realistic expectations in mind. It is also important to know what resources you have in hand.

The hardest part of planning a bridal shower is figuring out how much time and money you can afford to put into it. Once you figure out how much time and money you want me to put into a bridal shower, you are less likely to come up with any complications.

This article will go through the steps of planning a successful bridal shower.

1. Consult the Bride

Determine Preferences: Ask the bride about her preferences, such as the theme, guest list, or any activities she’d like to include. Some brides want to be involved, while others prefer to be surprised.
Pick a Date: Coordinate a date that works for the bride, key family members, and close friends, ideally 1-3 months before the wedding.

2. Set a Budget

Determine Who’s Paying: The bridal shower is often hosted by the maid of honor, bridesmaids, or close family. Establish if the costs will be split and determine the total budget for the event.
Plan Expenses: Include the venue, food, drinks, decorations, invitations, favors, and any game prizes or entertainment.

3. Choose a Theme

Theme Ideas: Decide on a theme that reflects the bride’s personality or interests. Some popular options include:
- Floral themes like “Garden Party” or “Rose Gold Elegance”
- Seasonal themes like “Spring Blossom” or “Winter Wonderland”
- Bubbly themes like “Brunch & Bubbly” or “Tea Party”
- Movie/TV themes like “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” or “Friends”
- Sweets-themed showers like “Donut Worry, Be Happy”
Blog Content: You can find more inspiration under the “themes” section of your blog.

4. Create a Guest List

Bride’s Input: Ensure the guest list aligns with who the bride wants in attendance.
Numbers: Depending on your venue and budget, limit the guest list to a manageable number.

5. Choose a Venue

Home, Restaurant, or Rental Space?: Consider the size of your guest list and the formality of the shower. A home setting is cozy, while a rented venue might offer more space and amenities.
Outdoor or Indoor?: Depending on the season, outdoor options like gardens or patios may be perfect for a spring/summer shower.

6. Send Invitations

Digital or Physical Invitations: Send invites 6-8 weeks in advance. You can opt for email invitations for simplicity or printed ones for a more formal touch.
Include Essential Info: Date, time, location, theme, dress code (if any), and RSVP details. You might also want to include any gift registry information.

7. Plan the Menu

Meal Type: Decide whether you’ll serve brunch, lunch, appetizers, or a full meal.
Cater or DIY: You can cater the event or make it a potluck, with close friends or family members contributing dishes.
Drinks: Offer a signature cocktail, wine, tea, or coffee, depending on the preferences of the bride and guests.

8. Decorations

Match the Theme: Use colors, flowers, banners, balloons, and table settings that align with the theme.
DIY or Buy: You can either make your own decor (a great way to save money) or purchase items that fit the bridal shower theme.

9. Plan Activities and Games

Bridal Shower Games: Plan fun games that involve the guests and keep the event lively, such as:
- How Well Do You Know the Bride?
- Bridal Bingo
- Wedding Pictionary
- Create a Dress from Toilet Paper
Prizes: Prepare small gifts for winners to add excitement.

10. Prepare Party Favors

Thank-You Gifts: Plan to send guests home with a small token of appreciation, such as candles, sweets, mini succulents, or personalized keepsakes.
Theme-Aligned: Align the favors with your theme, such as floral-scented candles for a garden-themed party.

11. Music and Entertainment

Playlist: Curate a playlist of the bride’s favorite songs or select background music that sets a fun and relaxed tone.
Photo Area: Set up a small photo booth with props for guests to take pictures with the bride.

12. Final Details

RSVPs: Track who has RSVP’d so you can finalize food and seating arrangements.
Setup: Set aside time before the event for setup, decorating, and food preparation.
Enjoy the Shower!: On the day, make sure the bride is comfortable, and everyone is having fun. Keep the flow of the event smooth with a general schedule of games, food, and gift opening.

Conclusion

Although, there may be a lot of details that go into playing in bridal shower, but end result are really worth it. Be sure to follow the steps when planning a bridal shower.

It is important to get the basics down and more importantly to determine what you are comfortable with and your budget. Once you figure that out, the other details will fall into place.

What type of bridal shower are you planning? What is your estimated budget?