Wondering how to host a bridal shower? Check out this guide on organising a memorable celebration for the bride!
A bridal shower is a wonderful way to celebrate the bride-to-be officially. It serves as one of the initial pre-wedding events where friends and family from both sides can meet, with plenty of enjoyable decorations, snacks, gifts, and games, plus, it’s the perfect opportunity to dress up! Traditionally, a bridal shower is an all-female gathering including the bride, her friends, bridesmaids, and close female relatives. Looking for ways to host an unforgettable bridal shower? Well, you stumbled in the right place.
In this guide created by our team at Wedding Affair, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide to host a bridal shower that will be etched in the minds of everyone attending for decades to come!
Determine the Budget
The first tip in our comprehensive guide to host a bridal shower is to set up a budget. Establishing a budget is the first step in planning any event. Traditionally, the host covers the costs. While it’s tempting to delight the bride with extravagant plans, choose an amount that’s comfortable for you.
Plan Wisely
Start planning the bridal shower at least six months before the wedding and not less than four months. Ideally, you should host the bridal shower two months before the wedding. Remember to run through the finalised date with the bride so that it can align seamlessly with her schedule.
Choose the Venue
Once you have a date and guest count, the next step in planning a memorable bridal shower is to finalise the venue. Oftentimes, the traditional choice is the host’s home. But, if you are not comfortable, you can opt for a private banquet hall or any venue that matches the bride’s interests, like an art gallery or spa. When in doubt, consult the bride! Ensure the location is accessible, offers ample parking, and has enough space for all expected guests.
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Select a Theme
After gathering the addresses of your guests and confirming the guest list with the bride, you can now move on to choose a theme. Although it is optional, it can surely add a personal touch to the celebration with themed invitations, food, and decor. Take full liberty with your creativity and include popular themes like brunch and bubbly, rustic, wine tasting, or even a flower arranging party. Select the theme while considering your bride’s interests and personality.
Send Invitations
The next tip in our guide to host a bridal shower is to send out the invitations after finalising the guest list. Finalise, order, and mail invitations about six to eight weeks before the bridal shower event. This will provide guests with ample time to adjust their schedules, purchase gifts, and inform you of their attendance.
Plan the Menu & Bar
After sending out invitations and receiving RSVPs, start planning the menu. You must include the dishes and items that the bride enjoys and always opt for items that are simple to serve. If you are going with a brunch theme, consider a mimosa bar, coffee drinks, and breakfast items like mini waffles. For a boho theme, a DIY taco station with guacamole and margaritas could be a hit. Depending on your budget, you can either cater the meal or prepare it yourself (preferably with help from bridesmaids).
Acquire the Decor
The last step to host a bridal shower is curating the decor according to the finalised theme. The most interesting part of hosting a memorable bridal shower is the decorations. After selecting the theme for the bridal shower, it’s ideal to start your decor shopping. No need to go overboard though. Seek out items like personalised posters, tassel garlands, and photo backdrops that won’t burn a hole in your pocket.
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Hope, we provided you with all the help you need to host a bridal shower that will remain memorable for everyone attending!
