A bridal shower is a pre-wedding celebration or party typically held for the bride to be before her wedding day. It is an opportunity for close friends and family members to come together and “shower” the bride with gifts, well wishes, and advice for her upcoming marriage.

Traditionally, the bridal shower is organized and hosted by the maid of honor or close female relatives of the bride. However, nowadays, anyone close to the bride, including family members, friends, or even colleagues, can take on the role of organizing and hosting the event.

What happens at a bridal shower

During a bridal shower, guests often participate in various activities and games that are centered around the bride. These activities can include trivia games about the couple, guessing games, or other interactive activities that bring fun and laughter to the event.

Bridal showers are an opportunity for the bride and her loved ones to celebrate and share in the excitement leading up to the wedding day. They often feature decorations, food, and drinks. The specific format and theme of a bridal shower can vary depending on cultural traditions, personal preferences, and the overall style of the event.

Who pays for a bridal shower?

Traditionally, the maid of honor or the bridesmaids would cover the expenses for planning and hosting the bridal shower.

However, in recent times, financial responsibilities have become more flexible and can vary depending on various factors, including cultural norms, relationships, and the preferences of those involved.

How to plan a bridal shower

Discuss with the bride

Your first step should always be to talk to the bride. Ask her about her preferences, expectations, and any specific ideas she may have for the shower. Discuss the guest list, date, theme (if desired), and any particular activities or games she would like to include.

Set a budget

Determine the budget for the bridal shower. This will help you make decisions regarding the venue, decorations, food, and other elements of the event.

If you are the host and covering cost this is easier to decide. If you are all pitching in then make sure you speak to everyone and at least get a rough idea of budgets.

Choose a date and time

Coordinate with the bride and select a date and time that works for her and most of the important guests. Aim to schedule the shower a few weeks to a couple of months before the wedding, allowing ample time for preparations and RSVPs.

Create a guest list

Work with the bride to create a guest list based on her preferences. Consider inviting close friends, family members, and other individuals important to the bride’s life. Coordinate with the bride to collect the necessary contact information for the guests.

Select a venue

Determine the location for the bridal shower. It can be hosted at someone’s home, a rented event space, a restaurant, or any other suitable location based on the budget and the number of guests.

Choose a theme or style

If the bride desires a specific theme for the bridal shower, brainstorm ideas together and choose a theme that reflects her interests and personality. The theme can influence the decorations, invitations, and activities at the shower.

Choosing an overall style or theme is really important to have a cohesive event. It helps let guests know what to wear and expect and makes decorating and styling easier.

Send invitations

Create and send out invitations to the guests. You can choose to send traditional physical invitations or use digital platforms to send electronic invitations. Make sure to include the date, time, location, RSVP details, and any special instructions or requests.

A top tip is to set up a WhatsApp group for everyone or at least the key members so you can chat about any decisions easily.

Plan the menu

Decide if you want a sit-down meal, a buffet, or a more casual setup. Consider people’s dietary preferences and any potential food allergies or restrictions of the guests.

A bridal shower brunch is always a big hit. I love the pizza and prosecco theme, super easy to get pizzas and everyone likes pizza, right?

Organize activities and games

Plan some engaging activities and games for the guests to enjoy during the shower. This can include icebreaker games, trivia about the couple, advice-sharing sessions, or other interactive activities related to the bride or the wedding.

I have put together a list of ideas for games that people actually want to play!

Decorations and Styling

The fun part! Well, my favorite anyway!

Select decorations that will enhance the overall atmosphere of the event. This can include table centerpieces, balloons, banners, flowers, and any other decorative elements that align with the chosen theme or color scheme.

Gifts and Favours

Discuss with the bride if she wants a gift registry or any specific instructions regarding gifts. Inform the guests about any gift preferences or suggestions in the invitations.

Consider what favors you will have for the guests attending. You can do small edible gifts or go all out with gift bags.

Plan the schedule

Create a detailed schedule for the bridal shower, including the timing of activities, gift opening, and any speeches or toasts. Make sure to allocate enough time for each segment while allowing room for flexibility and mingling.

Giving guests a brief timeline is helpful to things running smoothly. You can send this digitally, print if off or have it as a big sign.

Coordinate logistics

Take care of logistical aspects such as renting the venue, arranging for seating, audiovisual equipment (if needed), and ensuring any necessary permits or permissions are obtained.

This is when a planner comes in super useful. Having all the times, and supplier contact details in one place makes any event run smoothly.

Confirm RSVPs and finalize details

Keep track of guest RSVPs and communicate with the venue, vendors, and any individuals involved to confirm arrangements and finalize details.

If you have a big event with a large guest list I would have an online RSVP system if possible. If not keep a spreadsheet yourself that can be easily shared.

Execute the plan

On the day of the bridal shower, set up the venue according to the chosen theme and ensure everything is in place. Coordinate with any helpers or volunteers, greet the guests, and ensure the flow of the event follows the planned schedule.

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