A bridal shower is a special pre-wedding celebration that brings together the bride's closest friends and family to shower her with love, gifts, and well-wishes before her big day. If you've been asked to host one, you might be wondering where to start. Don't worry—this beginner's guide will walk you through everything you need to know to throw a memorable bridal shower.
What Is a Bridal Shower?
A bridal shower is a party held in honour of the bride-to-be, typically a few weeks to a few months before the wedding. It's a time for the bride to celebrate with her inner circle, receive gifts to help her start her new life, and enjoy quality time with loved ones. Unlike the bachelorette party, which is often more about fun and adventure, the bridal shower is usually a more intimate, relaxed gathering.
Who Hosts the Bridal Shower?
Traditionally, the maid of honour or bridesmaids host the bridal shower, but it can also be organised by close friends, family members, or even the mother of the bride. The key is to work together and communicate with the bride to ensure the event reflects her personality and preferences.
When Should You Host a Bridal Shower?
Bridal showers are typically held 2-3 months before the wedding, but the timing can vary depending on the bride's schedule and the availability of guests. Weekends are the most popular choice, as they're convenient for most attendees. Be sure to check with the bride and key guests before setting a date.
Where Should You Host a Bridal Shower?
The venue depends on the size of the guest list and the vibe you're going for. Popular options include:
- Someone's home for a cosy, intimate feel
- A restaurant or café for a more formal gathering
- A garden or outdoor space for a fresh, natural setting
- A private event space or function room for larger groups
Choose a location that suits the bride's style and makes guests feel comfortable.
Who Should Be Invited?
The guest list should include the bride's closest friends and family members. Traditionally, only people invited to the wedding are invited to the bridal shower. The size of the event can range from an intimate gathering of 10-15 people to a larger celebration with 30 or more guests. Always consult with the bride to ensure no one important is left out.
What Should You Serve?
Food and drinks are a big part of any bridal shower. Depending on the time of day and the formality of the event, you might serve:
- Brunch items like pastries, fruit, and mimosas
- Afternoon tea with sandwiches, scones, and tea or coffee
- A light lunch or dinner with salads, finger foods, and desserts
Don't forget a beautiful cake or dessert table to add a special touch!
What Activities Should You Plan?
While opening gifts is the main event, it's nice to include a few fun activities to keep guests entertained. Some popular bridal shower games and activities include:
- Bridal bingo
- How well do you know the bride?
- Advice cards for the bride
- DIY craft stations (like decorating picture frames or making candles)
Keep the activities light and fun—nothing too competitive or time-consuming.
What About Decorations?
Decorations set the tone for the event. Choose a theme or colour scheme that reflects the bride's personality or wedding theme. Popular bridal shower themes include:
- Garden party
- Vintage tea party
- Boho chic
- Elegant and classic
Simple touches like fresh flowers, balloons, banners, and table settings can make a big impact without breaking the bank. For more decoration inspiration, there are plenty of creative ideas to explore.
What Gifts Should Guests Bring?
Guests typically bring gifts from the couple's wedding registry, but they can also give personal items like kitchen gadgets, home décor, or sentimental keepsakes. If the bride has a registry, include the details on the invitation to make shopping easier for guests.
Final Tips for a Successful Bridal Shower
- Communicate with the bride to understand her preferences and expectations.
- Send invitations at least 4-6 weeks in advance.
- Delegate tasks to other bridesmaids or helpers to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
- Capture the memories with photos or a guest book.
- Most importantly, keep the focus on celebrating the bride and making her feel loved.
Ready to Plan?
Hosting a bridal shower doesn't have to be stressful. With a little planning and creativity, you can create a beautiful, memorable event that the bride will cherish forever. For more wedding planning advice, check out our blog. And if you're looking for the perfect gift for the bride, explore our range of wedding planners to help her stay organised and excited for her big day.
Happy planning!