The winter season, with its distinct charm and serene beauty, provides an extraordinary backdrop for celebrating special occasions. Winter bridal showers are a fun event to plan.
In this guide, I’m going to explore a range of themes and ideas that perfectly complement the cooler months, from sophisticated and sparkly to cozy and intimate.
Whether you’re planning an elegant affair or a laid-back gathering, our curated selection of ideas will inspire you to create a celebration that is both fitting for the season and deeply personal.
So, let’s get started on planning a bridal shower that beautifully captures the essence of winter.
Transform the space into a snowy paradise with white and silver decorations, snowflakes, and twinkling lights. Serve hot chocolate and have a s’mores bar for a cozy touch.
If the shower is close to Christmas, use this as a theme. Decorate with reds, greens, and gold, and use ornaments and Christmas lights. Consider a gingerbread house decorating contest for fun.
For a bridal shower around New Year’s, go for a glamorous theme with black, gold, and silver decor. Think about a champagne bar and a countdown to a mock New Year’s Eve at the end of the party.
Use blue and silver for a sophisticated and cool winter vibe. Decorate with icicles, glitter, and snowy branches. Blue cocktails and silver-dusted cupcakes can add to the theme.
Create a cozy, rustic feel with wooden decor, flannel accents, and warm lighting. Serve comfort food and hot drinks to keep guests warm.
Center the shower around holiday baking. Have a cookie decorating station and serve a variety of baked goods. This is perfect for a more casual, intimate gathering.
Think of a fairytale set in winter, with romantic and whimsical decorations like twinkling fairy lights, candles, and soft pastel colors.
Decorate with ski and snowboard equipment, plaid patterns, and faux fur throws. A hot toddy bar can be a unique addition to this theme.
Mix vintage Christmas decorations with elegant table settings. Use lace, pearls, and antique-looking decor to create a nostalgic feel.
Use flowers in winter tones like deep reds, purples, and whites, and mix them with frosted branches and pinecones for a unique twist on floral decor.
Create an enchanting atmosphere with greenery, fairy lights, and woodland decorations. Think of incorporating elements like pine cones, moss, and wood slices for a natural feel.
Embrace the beauty of snowflakes in your decor. Use sparkling snowflake decorations, glittery tablecloths, and icy blue lighting to create a magical ambiance.
If the bridal shower is near Valentine’s Day, use hearts, reds, and pinks for a romantic theme. Heart-shaped desserts and love-themed games can add to the fun.
Incorporate knitted textures and plaid patterns for a cozy, homey feel. Use knit throws, plaid table runners, and warm lighting to create a comfortable setting.
Draw inspiration from Nordic style with minimalist decor, clean lines, and a neutral color palette. Add touches of greenery and rustic wood for warmth.
For an elegant and sophisticated look, use crystal ware, pearl garlands, and shimmering white decor. This theme is perfect for a more formal bridal shower.
After a day on the slopes, an après-ski theme can be fun. Include warm drinks, a fireplace setting, and comfy seating areas with blankets and pillows.
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The party is over and you a full of love and gratitude for all that attended. But how do you put that into words?
Thinking about what to write in a bridal shower thank you card to really express your gratitude can be hard.
I have you covered though, In this blog post, I am going to share some templates to get you started or copy and paste. I will share some hints and tips for writing your own thank you card.
I also have you covered for what to write in your bridal shower invites.
Remember, personalization is key. Tailoring each message to reflect your relationship with the guest and their specific contribution to your bridal shower will make your thank you cards more meaningful and heartfelt.
By personalizing your thank you cards with these design elements, you’ll create a keepsake that your guests will treasure and that reflects the special nature of your bridal shower.
When it comes to printing and choosing materials for bridal shower thank you cards, the quality and style of your selections can greatly enhance the overall impression. Here are some suggestions:
Remember, the paper and printing method you choose should reflect the overall theme and formality of your bridal shower and wedding. A well-chosen design and high-quality materials will leave a lasting impression on your guests.
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Bridal shower brunch is the perfect sophisticated bridal event. If you or the bride and stylish and prefer a more low key event when celebrating, a brunch is for you.
Also, come on. Who doesn’t love brunch?
In this post, I am breaking down all you need to know to plan the most stylish bridal shower brunch. From planning, styling, and of course food choices.
With any event, this should always be the first step. If you are hosting and covering all costs this is easier.
If you are having guests pay for themselves or chip in then you need to figure out roughly what people can afford.
Decide whether you want to host the bridal shower brunch at home, a restaurant, a café, or any other suitable location.
Consider the number of guests, the ambiance you desire, and the availability of the venue. If it is home then it can be cheaper but remember that usually means more work for the host.
Head to my bridal shower venue guide.
Choose a theme that reflects the bride’s personality or interests. It could be anything from a garden-inspired brunch to a glamorous brunch affair.
Select decorations, centerpieces, table settings, and linens that align with the chosen theme.
Create and send out invitations to the guests. Include the date, time, venue, theme, and any specific instructions or requests.
Consider whether you want to send physical invitations or use electronic invitations for convenience.
Design a delicious and well-balanced brunch menu.
Consider a mix of breakfast and lunch items such as egg dishes, pastries, salads, sandwiches, and fruit platters.
Refreshing beverages like mimosas or non-alcoholic options. Take into account any dietary restrictions or preferences of the guests.
Establish a timeline for the bridal shower brunch, including the arrival of guests, brunch service, activities, gift opening, and any other special moments or surprises you have planned.
This will help you stay organized and ensure everything runs smoothly.
The bride and everyone attending should be looking their best.
A brunch is usually a more casual but stylish event. You will definitely want to dress up and make an effort but daytime glam, not nighttime party.
Consider providing small favors or tokens of appreciation for the guests. These can be personalized items, homemade treats, or something related to the brunch theme.
Plan some entertaining activities and games to keep the guests engaged and create a fun atmosphere. You can incorporate bridal shower classics like “Guess the Bride’s Age,” “Wedding Mad Libs,” or “Bridal Bingo.
Don’t forget to send thank you notes to all guests and presents received. If you are the bride it is nice to thank the hosts also.
This can be done with favours but sometimes you miss thanking people on the day personally so always nice to a least send a thank you note. Even if just a text.
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Ever been to a bridal shower and the whole thing is just a little awkward? They miss the mark with the games and they are either just way too much for the event or way too boring to get anyone involved.
Well, you don’t need to worry, that will not be your bridal shower. I have surveyed guests, brides, and suppliers to find out the games people actually want to play at a bridal shower!
Bridal bingo is the best game for a large sit down event. It also works well in smaller groups and you can mix and match it up to what suits your size. You can play normal bingo or bridal shower alternatives.
I have a full blog post breaking down how to play and create cards for all these bridal shower bingo games in detail.
Prepare a list of wedding-related trivia questions and see who can answer the most correctly. You can cover topics like famous weddings, wedding traditions, or facts about the bride and groom. Think about what would suit the bride and guests attending.
The ring game works for big parties, smaller events and long weekend breaks. You give or tell everyone to take the ring. You pick a word, usually bride, and if anyone hears you say the word they get your ring. The person at the end with the most rings wins a prize.
I have a full guide with free printables, just head to the Put a Ring on it game guide.
This game is great for history and tradition loving brides. Find some of the strangest wedding traditions, trust me there’s a lot. Then the guest has to guess why we do those traditions.
Example: why do brides wear a white dress? Give me the answer in the comments below.
Again I have a full blog post on this game also with free printables. Why do we do that game?
If you have ever played Pin the tail on the Donkey you will know this one. I loved this game as a kid at birthday parties, anyone else?
You blindfold guests and give them a veil and they have to try and pin it in the right place on a big cut out bride. Can be the actual bride to be or a cartoon or photo.
Ask the guests a series of questions about the bride before the event. During the shower, read the questions aloud and have the guests write down their answers. Compare the responses and see who knows the bride best.
Divide the guests into teams and have them take turns drawing wedding-related words or phrases while their team members try to guess what they are illustrating within a time limit.
Prepare a list of questions about the couple’s relationship and have the groom answer them in advance. During the shower, ask the bride the same questions and see how their answers match up.
Set up a station with note cards or a guestbook where guests can write down their advice, well wishes, or marriage tips for the bride. This can be a thoughtful keepsake for the bride to look back on.
Divide guests into teams and provide rolls of toilet paper or crepe paper. In a limited time, each team must create a wedding dress using only the materials provided. The bride can judge the designs and choose a winning team.
Create a scavenger hunt list with items related to weddings or specific objects around the venue. Guests can work individually or in teams to find and check off the items on the list.
Couple Jeopardy is a fun and interactive bridal shower game where the bride and groom answer questions about each other to test their knowledge and compatibility. The game is set up like a quiz show, with various categories and point values. The couple takes turns answering questions, and the guests enjoy watching their responses and learning more about the couple’s relationship.
The “He Said, She Said” game is a playful bridal shower activity where guests try to guess who said certain statements or phrases, either the bride or the groom. The host reads out a series of quotes related to the couple’s relationship or personalities, and the guests must decide whether each statement was spoken by the bride or the groom. It’s a lighthearted way to test how well the guests know the couple and adds a fun element to the celebration.
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Hosting a bridal shower can be a big task. It is easy to get overwhelmed with all the things you need to do and when by.
But don’t worry I got you!
I have put together a list of all the things you need to do to plan the perfect bridal shower. This list is a rough guide. Things and timings will depend on what you have planned. You are best creating your own bridal shower timeline and checklist so you can make sure you don’t miss anything.
Grab a free Checklist Printable!
☐ Determine the date and time of the bridal shower, consulting with the bride and important guests.
☐ Set a budget for the event.
☐ Decide on the guest list in collaboration with the bride.
☐ Choose a venue or decide if the shower will be hosted at someone’s home.
☐ Select a theme (if desired) and brainstorm ideas for decorations and activities.
☐ Reach out to potential co-hosts or helpers, if needed.
☐ Start gathering contact information for the guests.
☐ Send out save-the-date notifications to the guests.
☐ Finalize the venue booking or make arrangements for hosting at a home.
☐ Purchase or create invitations that match the chosen theme.
☐ Create a detailed schedule for the bridal shower, including activities, games, and gift openings.
☐ Begin planning the menu, considering the bride’s preferences and any dietary restrictions of the guests. ☐ Plan and purchase or order decorations, centrepieces, and any other supplies needed.
☐ Start researching and booking any necessary vendors, such as caterers or rental companies.
☐ Send out formal invitations to the guests, including all necessary details and RSVP information.
☐ Follow up with any guests who haven’t responded to the invitations.
☐ Confirm the menu and make any necessary adjustments.
☐ Purchase or order any party favors or special gifts for the guests.
☐ Plan and prepare any games or activities, ensuring you have all the necessary supplies.
☐ Coordinate with any co-hosts or helpers, assigning tasks and responsibilities.
GRAB YOUR BRIDAL SHOWER CHECKLIST FREEBIE
☐ Confirm the final guest count and make any adjustments to the venue or catering.
☐ Double-check all the necessary supplies, including decorations, utensils, and serving dishes.
☐ Confirm any deliveries or pickups from vendors.
☐ Prepare a final schedule for the bridal shower, ensuring it accommodates the planned activities and allows for flexibility.
☐ Contact any guests who haven’t RSVPed to confirm their attendance.
☐ Delegate any last-minute tasks to co-hosts or helpers.
☐ Set up the venue or decorate the designated area according to the chosen theme.
☐ Set up tables, chairs, and any necessary audiovisual equipment.
☐ Arrange the food and beverage stations.
☐ Set up a designated area for gifts and a space for the bride to open them.
☐ Ensure all necessary supplies, such as plates, napkins, and utensils, are readily available.
☐ Greet and welcome guests as they arrive.
☐ Follow the planned schedule, facilitating activities, games, and gift openings.
☐ Take photos or designate someone to capture memorable moments throughout the event.
☐ Clean up and pack away decorations, ensuring the venue or home is left in good condition.
☐ Send thank-you notes to the guests, expressing gratitude for their attendance and any gifts received.
☐ Share any photos or memories from the bridal shower with the bride and guests.
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Knowing what to write in an invitation can leave you stumped!
It doesn’t need to be complicated, yes you can go all formal and follow the rules. But really, all you need to make sure is that you include all the key details.
Here are some key details to consider:
Remember to use appropriate language and tone that reflects the style and formality of the event. You can get creative with the design and layout of the invitation to match the theme or the bride’s personality.
Overall, the invitation should clearly convey the essential details of the bridal shower and create excitement for the upcoming celebration.
You’re Cordially Invited to a Bridal Shower
Honoring Sarah Thompson before her special day
Date: Saturday, September 10th, 2023 Time: 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM Venue: The Grand Ballroom at The Regency Hotel Address: 123 Main Street, Cityville Dress Code: Black Tie/Formal Attire
Kindly RSVP by August 30th, 2023 RSVP to Jennifer Parker at jennifer.parker@email.com or (555) 123-4567
Gift Registry: Sarah is registered at Luxe Home Decor and Bloomingdale’s.
We look forward to your presence at this joyous occasion as we celebrate the bride-to-be.
Hosted by the Maid of Honor and Bridesmaids: Jennifer Parker, Emily Johnson, Lily Adams
For any inquiries, please contact Jennifer at (555) 123-4567 or jennifer.parker@email.com.”
You’re invited!
To Sarah’s Bridal shower
Date: Saturday, September 10th, 2023 Time: 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM Venue: The Loft Event Space Address: 456 Oak Street, Cityville
Attire: Casual and Comfortable
Please RSVP by August 30th, 2023 RSVP to Emily Johnson at emily.johnson@email.com or (555) 987-6543
No Gift Registry: Your presence is the only gift we need!
We can’t wait to spend this special time together, enjoying good company, delicious treats, and creating lasting memories.
Hosted by: Emily Johnson, Jennifer Parker, Lily Adams (Bridal Squad)
For any questions or additional information, please reach out to Emily at (555) 987-6543 or emily.johnson@email.com.”
Creating and managing a guest list for your bridal shower can seem daunting, but with proper organization and communication, it can be a manageable task.
Planning a bridal shower is a big task. It can be overwhelming but if you are organized you got this. I have all the resources you could ever need to plan the perfect bridal shower.
Begin by listing the names of your closest family members and friends who you definitely want to invite. This core group will form the foundation of your guest list.
If you are hosting it for the couple make sure they always have the last say on the guest list.
If you are hosting and your partner is involved in the wedding planning process, consult with them to ensure you include any mutual friends or family members on the guest list. Their input is valuable and helps create a balanced list.
Determine the maximum capacity of your chosen venue and consider any limitations or constraints it may have. This will help you establish an approximate number of guests you can invite.
Divide your guest list into different categories such as family, close friends, colleagues, and acquaintances. This will help you prioritize and make decisions about who to invite.
Determine the maximum number of guests you can comfortably accommodate within your budget and venue limitations. This will help you make necessary cuts if your initial list exceeds the capacity.
Use a spreadsheet or a guest list management tool to keep track of your guests’ names, contact information, RSVP status, and any specific notes or dietary restrictions. This will help you stay organized and easily update information as needed.
It can be as simple as this one below that you update yourself. You can set up an online RSVP system. Our grab my guestlist spreadsheet for a stylish-looking spreadsheet.
Full Name | Relationship | Address | Phone | RSVP Status | Dietary Preference | Food Choice | Event Choice | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Send out your bridal shower invitations well in advance, preferably 12-8 weeks before the event. This gives guests enough time to RSVP and allows you to follow up with those who haven’t responded.
Regularly check and update your guest list based on the RSVPs you receive. Follow up with guests who haven’t responded by the designated RSVP deadline to get a final headcount.
Maintain clear and open communication with your guests. Provide clear instructions for RSVPing, include a contact person’s name and email/phone number, and promptly respond to any questions or inquiries.
Be Prepared for Changes: Understand that there may be changes to your guest list due to unexpected circumstances or last-minute cancellations. Be flexible and prepared to adapt accordingly.
After the bridal shower, express your gratitude to your guests by sending out thank you notes. This small gesture of appreciation goes a long way in maintaining good relationships with your loved ones.
Remember, the guest list is a personal choice, and it’s important to invite those who are significant to you and who will contribute positively to the celebration. Be mindful of your budget, venue capacity, and overall vision for the bridal shower. With proper organization and timely communication, you can successfully manage your guest list and create a memorable event for everyone involved.
When it comes to choosing a venue for your bridal shower, there are various options to consider. The venue you select should align with your desired atmosphere, guest count, budget, and personal preferences.
Consider hosting the bridal shower at your own home or the home of a close friend or family member. This option provides a cozy and intimate setting, and you have more control over the ambiance and decorations. It can be a cost-effective choice as well.
If you don’t want to use your own home then it is becoming more popular now to hire a nice home for the day or night.
You can hire it for a few days so you can go all out with the setup. It takes away the stress of having the event at home, if you know, you know!
Many restaurants and cafes offer private event spaces or party rooms that can be reserved for bridal showers. Look for venues that match your preferred style, whether it’s a casual brunch spot, a trendy eatery, or an elegant dining establishment. Check if they have packages specifically designed for bridal showers.
If you prefer an outdoor celebration, consider hosting your bridal shower in a beautiful garden, park, or outdoor event space. This option provides a natural and scenic backdrop, especially during the warmer months. Make sure to have a backup plan in case of inclement weather.
Check out local community centers or clubhouses that often have event spaces available for rental. These venues usually offer versatile spaces that can be customized to fit your bridal shower needs. They may provide amenities like kitchen facilities and ample parking.
For a classic and elegant experience, consider hosting your bridal shower at a tea room or a venue that specializes in afternoon tea. This option is perfect for an intimate gathering and offers a sophisticated atmosphere.
Boutique hotels and inns often have private event spaces suitable for bridal showers. These venues can provide a charming and intimate ambiance, along with catering options and accommodations for out-of-town guests if needed.
If you’re planning a larger bridal shower or desire a more formal setting, consider a country club or banquet hall. These venues offer ample space, elegant decor, and professional event staff to assist with planning and execution.
Get creative and think outside the box! Consider venues such as art galleries, museums, vineyards, historic sites, or even a yacht or boat charter. These unique venues can add a touch of novelty and create a memorable experience for your guests.
When choosing a venue, consider factors such as capacity, location, amenities, cost, and the overall vibe you want to create. Visit the venues, ask for recommendations, and review their policies and packages to ensure they align with your vision for the bridal shower.
Choosing the right venue for your bridal shower is an important decision that sets the tone for the event. Here are some top tips to consider when selecting a venue:
Remember, choosing the right venue is crucial for creating the desired atmosphere and ensuring a memorable bridal shower experience. Take your time, compare options, and select a venue that aligns with your vision and meets your practical needs.
A bridal shower and a bachelorette party are both pre-wedding celebrations, but they have distinct purposes and differences in terms of their focus, activities, and guest lists.
We have you covered with our complete in-depth planning guides for both bridal showers and bachelorettes.
Here’s a breakdown of the key differences between the two:
While there can be some overlap in terms of guests and activities, the main distinction lies in the purpose and overall tone of the events. Bridal showers focus on gift-giving, support, and advice for the bride, while bachelorette parties are centered around celebrating the bride’s upcoming marriage with a fun and memorable night or weekend with close friends.
Deciding between a bridal shower and a bachelorette party ultimately depends on your personal preferences, the type of celebration you envision, and the dynamics of your relationships with friends and family. Here are some factors to consider when making a decision:
Remember, there is no right or wrong choice. It’s about selecting the celebration that resonates most with your personality, preferences, and the dynamics of your relationships. You can also consider combining elements of both celebrations or having separate events if that aligns with your vision and circumstances.
If you desire to have both a bridal shower and a bachelorette party, it is absolutely possible to plan and incorporate both celebrations into your pre-wedding festivities.
I would offer to host one yourself or at least have two different people be the host of each one. It is a big task to organize one event, let alone two.
Here’s how you can make it work:
Remember, the key is open communication and collaboration with those involved in the planning process. By expressing your desire for both a bridal shower and a bachelorette party and working together to make it happen, you can have the best of both worlds and create memorable experiences leading up to your wedding day.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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?
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.