Many bridal showers are organized to celebrate the upcoming marriage of a couple. These events typically involve closest friends and family gathering to share in the joy and excitement.
Planning a bridal shower or or couple's shower can be both exciting and challenging. It can be a demanding task for the maid of honor or a designated planner. In most bridal showers, it is typically a close friend or a relative chosen by the bride-to-be to play a special role on the wedding day.
So we have created this ultimate bridal shower checklist to help you organize and execute a successful and stress-free event. This checklist will cover everything from the budget, theme, venue, guest list, invitations, decorations, food, games, favors, and more.
So if you are planning a traditional, modern, or unique bridal shower, consider the following to do list:
1. What is the budget for the bridal shower?
First things first, how much are you willing to spend for this kind of event?
If multiple people are contributing, you need to discuss and agree on a bridal shower budget that everyone is comfortable with. You need to consider the fee for venue booking, catering, decorations, and entertainment.
You wouldn't like the idea of spending more than you can afford or less than you should, which can cause you debt, regret, or disappointment.
Once you agree on a total budget, the next step would be breaking down the allocated funds to the specific aspects of the event.
venue and rental cost
catering and beverages
decor items that align with the shower theme
entertainment and activities
invitations and bridal shower favors
2. When is the preferred date and time for the bridal shower?
The second step in hosting a bridal shower is choosing the shower date that works for everybody. Scheduling months or a few weeks before the wedding is ideal if you decide to host at someone's home. However, if hosting it at a restaurant, banquet hall, or another event space, you need to consider the availability of the date and the number of people on your guest list.
Some folks are booking two or three months before their event date. This gives them enough time to plan, send invitations, order food and drinks, prepare party favors, and other details of the bachelorette party.
Make sure you communicate or make advance notice about the date and time to the guests so they can make necessary travel arrangements ahead.
To dos: After completing a couple of items in your checklist for bridal shower, quickly identify the next tasks to prioritize and move on to the next set.
3. How many guests are you expecting?
Next, you need to come up with a ballpark figure of the people you expect to attend. This will help you narrow down your event venue options and avoid booking a space that is too big or too small. Knowing the guest count helps you in the overall logistical planning process.
You don't need to invite 100 guests, 80 guests, or 75 guests.
That's a lot of people. And believe it or not, the more people you host, the more your event is going to cost you!
Who should be included in the bridal shower guest list?
Not everyone in the community needs to be invited. Not everybody can maintain social interaction. Some people may be left out or feel unwelcome. So make it personal and intimate. Invite people who are close to the bride or the groom--these are the close friends and family members.
To dos: Make a guest list, Settle on a final guest count, Send invitations
4. Will the shower be held at home, a venue, or another location?
"What are you looking for in a venue?" One of the questions we ask to everyone looking for a space. Most people would say "I want something like raw space or an open space", and others " I need a full-service venue."
If you want to have your own decorator, caterer, DJ, and other stuff for the fun part then you may end up choosing a raw space that offers a blank canvas.
You can browse some unique bridal shower venues near you to see what options you have. Online platforms like Eventective, Peerspace, or Wedding Spot are valuable resources for finding and booking event venues. You can also search on Google, read reviews, check availability, and request quotes.
For an intimate bridal shower venue or space for the wedding party, Check out our guide here.
You may also want to visit the venues in person or virtually and ask the receptionist or venue manager any questions you have about the space, such as the layout, the amenities, the catering, the parking, the decor, the policies, or the bar service.
Before falling in love with a particular space, be mindful of the venue rental fees, catering costs, incidental fees, and any additional expenses that may arise.
If you want to save money on the venue, you can also consider some of these tips:
Host the bridal shower at an off-peak time, such as a weekday, a morning, or an afternoon
Choose a venue that already has the furniture, equipment, or the amenities you need
Look for a venue that allows you to bring your own food and drinks
5. Are there any specific themes or colors you'd like to incorporate?
It is advisable to choose a bridal shower theme that matches the bride's personality, preferences, and expectations. You may also want to discuss this with the bride-to-be, and the groom, the bridal party, and the close family members and other wedding party members their opinions and suggestions for the theme.
Here are some popular bridal shower themes to consider:
Vintage Romance
Tropical Paradise
Boho Chic
Parisian Elegance
Garden Party
Movie Night
Masquerade Ball
Rustic Charm
Boozy Brunch
These are just some of the many bridal shower themes you can choose from and remember, it is not a requirement for the bridal showers, but it can have some benefits. If the bride prefers a more casual or simple event, it's okay to skip this list.
Whether it's a themed shower or just a plain brunch or dinner party, the most important thing is to make the shower an amazing event for the bride and the guests.
6. Are there any dietary restrictions or preferences among the guests?
The bridal shower menu is an essential part of the bridal shower planning. Whether it's a casual brunch, an elegant tea party, or a fun and relaxed gathering, the menu sets the tone for the event.
What kind of food is served at a bridal shower?
Typically, the menu can range from light refreshment for brunch or afternoon showers to more substantial meals for evening events. Some common food items often served are:
finger sandwiches, tea sandwiches
fruit and cheese platters
vegetable trays with dip, salads
quiches or mini frittatas
pastries and mini desserts
sweets and candy
beverages and don't forget the
Cakes and cupcakes!
When deciding on the types of food and beverages, consider the dietary restrictions and preferences of the bride and guests.
7. What are the items used for bridal shower?
Organizing and choosing decorations can be a fun and creative process. If you are hosting in an event space, review their policies and guidelines. Coordinate with the bride to make sure the decorations align with her vision for the bridal shower.
If you don't want to work with a decorator, and if the budget is tight then consider DIY options to save money without compromising on style. There's always a way to create a beautiful setting without breaking the bank. Just ensure that key areas such as the gift table and photo backdrops are well-lit so they stand out and appear great in photos.
Shop for bridal shower decorations, paper goods, signage, and other party props
Use balloon bouquets or arches, fresh or artificial flowers, banners, garlands, or customized signs that showcase the theme or convey a personalized message.
Pick up any important items
You may also consider string lights, fairy lights, or candles to add a touch of ambiance.
Don't forget to purchase a ribbon bouquet for the bride to be and other bridal shower favors. These favors are small gifts given to guests as a token of appreciation for attending the bridal shower. Some examples are:
decorative or scented candles
personalized keychains, coasters, or magnets
edible treats, customized mini jar of honey or jam or wrapped chocolates or candies
wine stoppers or bottle openers
succulents or mini plants
8. Are there any specific activities or games you'd like to include?
If you want to have a live performance, a unique sound, and a wow factor that can impress and delight your guests then hiring a talented musician or a DJ may be a great option. However, it can be more expensive, less flexible, and less personalized.
That is why it is important to choose a bridal shower venue that has a good sound system and lets you customize and create your music playlist! Having the flexibility to adjust the playlist throughout the bridal party allows you to cater to various moments, from the opening greetings to dancing later.
Organize the bridal shower games and activities to entertain guests
Plan fun activities that engage the guests and create lasting memories. Search for some game ideas and incorporate activities that the bride-to-be enjoys, such as gift opening a "How Well Do You Know The Bride" game or a Bridal Bingo.
More examples of shower games:
Charades
Pictionary
Memory Lane
A photo booth is also great entertainment!
Instead of a traditional guest book, consider having a photo booth. Photo booths are versatile and can be enjoyed by guests of all ages. Many modern photo booths come with the option to instantly share photos on social media. This can be a fun way to involve those who couldn't attend and to share the joy of the bridal shower.
9. Will there be a gift registry for the bride?
Bridal shower gifts and a couple's wedding registry are not necessary, but they are common and helpful for both the bride and the guests. Couples often create a gift registry, a list of desired gifts, to guide attendees. These gifts can range from household items and practical gifts to personal treasures.
What is customary to give at a bridal shower?
Kitchen and cookware
Home appliances
linens and towels
home decor
gift cards, cash gift or gift certificates
intimate apparel
cookbook
9. What is the order of activities at a bridal shower?
Make sure you have a bridal shower timeline so you don't overlook the time for each activity. You need to arrive early at the venue and set up decorations, tables, chairs, and any other necessary items. Double-check that everything in the bridal shower itinerary is in order, and all details are taken care of before the bridal shower day.
To dos: Confirm details, Receive and set up equipment, assemble decorations and favors, and set tables and chairs
Here's an example of a bridal shower itinerary:
1:00 PM - 1:30 PM: Arrival and Welcome
1:30 PM - 2:00 PM: Icebreaker Games
2:00 PM - 2:30 PM: Opening Remarks and Introductions
2:30 PM - 3:00 PM: Food and Drinks
3:00 PM - 3:30 PM: Gift Opening
3:30 PM - 4:00 PM: Interactive Activity
4:00 PM - 4:30 PM: Cake Cutting and Dessert
4:30 PM - 5:00 PM: Games and Entertainment
5:00 PM - 5:30 PM: Thank You Speech and Toast
5:30 PM - 6:00 PM: Mingling and Goodbyes
6:00 PM: Closing and Clean-Up
Remember that quality often matters more than quantity. A well-organized and engaging 5-7 hour event can be more memorable and enjoyable than a longer one that feels stretched or a shorter one that feels rushed.
The suggested day of timeline above may or may not fit the preferences of the bride and the guests during the event. Some parts may take longer than anticipated. And if for instance, the weather unexpectedly changes, you might need to adapt to it and be flexible.
10. Confirm reservations, vendors, orders and delivery times
Confirming reservations, especially for appointments or events, helps reduce the likelihood of ghosting or no-shows. It's also a good practice that can benefit both the hosts and the guests. Most importantly, helps you avoid misunderstandings, mistakes, or delays.
Ensure that everyone involved is on the same page and that operations run smoothly. Watch out for some automated emails, reminders, and follow-ups from the venue management, your vendor, decorator, and other service providers.
Make sure you also review and finalize details and terms of your agreement.
11. Delegate Duties to the Bridal Party
More heads are better than one! If you're the maid of honor, you don't need to handle too many tasks on your own. Assign specific roles, for example, one bridesmaid could record gifts, another is in charge of decorations, and another for entertainment.
Other tasks may include:
sending bridal shower invitations,
coordinating the bridal shower menu, assisting with food preparation
organizing bridal shower games and activities,
handling gift registry, and
sending thank you notes or cards
Don't forget to express gratitude for their efforts and let them know how much their contributions are valued!
Here's a real-time testimonial from one of my team members:
"Planning my cousin's bridal shower was stressful! But the family members managed to pull off a fantastic bridal shower on a tight budget! With a bit of creativity and DIY magic, we transformed an ordinary space into a beautiful setting. Also seeing the bride surrounded by love and joy made all the planning and late nights worthwhile."
So are you ready to start the bridal shower planning?
It's important to note that individual experiences and opinions during the bridal shower planning process can vary, and what might be challenging for you could be enjoyable for others. If you can make it an A+, there's no doubt that you can elevate wedding planning to an even higher level.
Embrace the joy of bringing friends and family together to celebrate love, laughter, and the upcoming wedding day. Use the above bridal shower checklist, be creative, and enjoy the process.
Happy planning!
