Business & Finance

If you have the important honor of throwing a bridal shower, or if you’re just looking for ways of making your own shower fun and memorable, give yourself enough time to plan a great bridal shower that will be fun for everyone.

Choosing A Theme

Planning a bridal shower and wedding around a theme that involves more than simply planning everything around one or two colors is becoming very popular. This gives couples a chance to truly express their personalities.

The time of year for the wedding and shower may have something to do with the theme. An autumn shower would be beautiful with vibrant colors of the fall. Besides the four seasons, bridal showers can also be planned around a specific holiday or event.

Some other bridal shower themes to consider include:

-An English tea party-Fancy tea cups (mismatched is fine), fresh cut flowers, an assortment of teas, finger sandwiches, and desserts such as scones and tea cakes will make for the perfect tea party themed bridal shower.

- Garden party: An outdoor party centered around flowers and plants is ideal for the spring bridal shower.

- Hawaiian Luau: Include leis and Hawaiian flowers along with Hawaiian inspired food.

- Las Vegas: For a something different hold a Vegas themed event complete with card games, a roulette wheel and dice. Held in the early evening, this is a great way to combine a bridal shower with a ladies night out.

- Pajama party: Have guests come in their pajamas and serve foods such as pizza, popcorn, soda, ice cream and plenty of other snacks.

- Spa party: This works best for smaller groups. Pamper everyone and treat them to an afternoon of manicures, pedicures, massages, facials, and lots of relaxation.

Shower Invitations and Party Favors

Bridal shower invitations should include the following bits of information:

- Bride’s first and last name – Date and time – Where the shower is being held – Who is hosting the shower – RSVP date and contact phone number – The theme, if any – Where the couple is registered – Maps and directions, if necessary

Shower favors are the perfect way for the bride-to-be to say thanks for coming and that she appreciates everyone sharing in her special time. You can tie the favor into the theme or find something unique that will be enjoyed by the guests. For example you could send everyone home with a small plant in a tiny pot from a garden themed shower.

Bridal Shower Timeline

- Two months before: Set the budget, decide on the style or theme of the shower, set the date, choose and reserve the location, create a guest list, plan the menu, choose the games, delegate tasks to other members of the bridal party, purchase the invitations.

- One month before: Mail the invitations, order the cake, plan your menu and shopping lists, purchase the decorations, party favors and prizes.

- One week before: Order the food, chairs, linens, and tableware if necessary, purchase the bride’s gift and confirm reservations.

- One day before: Begin decorating, pick up the cake, wrap the bride’s gift and game prizes, prepare street signs if needed, and prepare any food items that can be made in advance.

- The day of the shower: Arrange the food and drinks, finish any decorating, be prepared to record a list of gifts received, and finally, relax and have a good time at the shower!