How to Plan a Badass Bridal Shower in 9 Steps

from timing to the must-have details for your wedding shower this guide covers it all

Are you a friend or maid of honor helping the bride plan the bridal shower? If so, then more props to you for taking on this responsibility! You probably are wondering how to plan a bridal wedding shower.

Set a Theme or Dress Code

Wedding showers are known for having a fun theme tied to the occasion. Establish your theme to let guests know how formal the event is and what they should wear.

It also sets the guidelines to find the right venue, & décor (like diy wedding reception lighting & wall drapes). Think about an easy theme that everyone can match with their attire.

Example of Bridal Shower Themes:

• Tea Party

• Sunday Brunch

• Tropical Night

• Slumber Party

• Movie Night

• 80s Party

• Lemonade

• Bohemian Theme

• Breakfast at Tiffanys

• Taco Fiesta

• Masquerade

• 60s dance

setting a theme will help you decide on food & drinks

Did you notice how as you read the wedding shower themes you can instantly picture your event? We’re talking about your decorations, atmosphere & even outfits to wear.

That is the reason behind choosing a bridal shower theme. Your theme should be easy to understand & integrate. For example, a Taco Fiesta can include tacos, nacho & margaritas as the main drink.

Who Is Invited

Wedding showers have changed over time. They are usually a one-gender celebration, but lately, those rules are being forgotten.

We have seen couples celebrate a joint shower with both the bride & groom’s family. If you are helping the couple organize their shower, ask about their expectations.

it is okay to not assume it’s a girl-only party

Once that is settled, you should sit with the couple and write out the guest list. Ask first to make sure the celebration includes the people they want there.

Some couples only prefer family and close friends to be invited to their wedding shower. Others might invite friends only or family only.

Type of Bridal Shower to Host

seriously… who doesn’t enjoy a fancy cocktail right before hitting the dance floor

Is this party a classic brunch with soft music playing in the background? You just might want a good chat with the girls over some coffee or mimosas.

You could plan a more lively party with karaoke or a DJ. We know they are far from each other, but you need to have clear intentions so the guests know what to expect.

Sign Up for Wedding Gift Registry

One of the most exciting things about a wedding shower is the gifts! Before sending your invites, you must have a registry at a couple of stores. Include both national stores & online stores.

include a cash app or bank account for those who don’t have time to go shopping

If the couple has all they need in terms of home décor, you can go for an experience gift. An example of this is when guests buy the couple a night at a spa. People can even pay for a portion of their honeymoon or send a monetary gift instead.

Where to Host a Bridal Shower

So far you have set the mood, the theme, and the gift registry! Next, you need to find the best place to host your shower. Depending on the size of your guest list, you may look into DIY vs all-inclusive banquet halls.

wedding showers are often held on family properties that have enough space

Try to match your theme to the venue location. For example, if it is a tea party, the ideal venue should have an English-inspired garden. You may consider an event space with sparkly chandeliers & hanging fabric from ceiling.

Bridal Shower Food & Drink Ideas

don’t go overboard, just keep it simple & theme related

All that is left is to take care of food, drinks & decorations. Your main inspiration should be the party’s theme. Following the tea party theme, you can serve a Long Island tea cocktail, some cute little sandwiches, and appetizers. A teapot could be your floral vase, and you add some tiny colorful candles to each table and make it unique.

The Bride’s Seat (Bridal Throne Chair)

If you are planning a bridal shower for the bride-to-be, you must know they should sit at a special seat. People will want to take pictures with the bride-to-be throughout the event. This makes for a great backdrop & photo opportunity for other guests.

The main purpose is to make the bride feel extra special while she enjoys the company of her loved ones. Make sure the special seat matches the rest of the décor.

This could be a simple velvet chair, a cute rustic one, a gold throne chair, or a silver throne chair. You can even shop our drapery rentals to make your stage look stunning.

Bridal Shower Photo Booth

What is a party without amazing photos? Create a special area with drapery & decorations.

Incorporate a couple of chairs, wedding flower rentals, a diy backdrop stand, & wireless uplighting to set the right atmosphere. Add a neon sign to your flower wall backdrop to keep everyone entertained while they photos.

Surprise the Bride-to-Be

Who doesn’t love a surprise? If you are helping the bride, you can set up a surprise appearance for the groom. If you are throwing a couple’s shower, you can invite a special guest like a loved one.

at the end have the groom walk in with a beautiful flower bouquet

If they can’t make it schedule a virtual call & display it (rent an LCD projector). Want to take it over the top? Hire an imitator celebrity to sing their favorite songs! Once again a big congrats & happy planning.