Hosting a Bridal Shower
Updated February 8, 2026
Hosting Guides By Gina Holzer
Putting on a bridal shower can be stressful. However, with some helpful hints you can prepare properly for a lovely shower that won’t disappoint!
As in most party planning situations it is best to start with a budget. It is helpful to nail this down at the beginning of the planning process to reference along the way and not overspend.
Have the bride-to-be make a guest list and then order invitations. They should be sent out 4 – 6 weeks prior to the shower. Be sure to include date, time, location, RSVP, host and registry information.
Next will be choosing a date and venue. You will need to keep in mind the budget as well as guest count when picking the venue.
Check with the bride for suggestions on a theme. You can then plan for and purchase decorations. Decorations to consider are welcome signs, a guest book sign-in, banners, balloons, tablecloths, and floral centerpieces. Also, depending on the venue you may need to plan for plates, napkins and cutlery.
In addition to décor, you will probably want to come up with a playlist of appropriate music.
Next comes the food and drinks. I highly recommend getting the bride’s opinion when it comes to choosing the menu, cakes/desserts and beverages. Some may have no preference, which is fine too!
Designate an area for gifts and cards and have someone document who gave what so the bride can send out thank you notes later.
You may choose to play a game or activity to keep the shower going. There are some traditional games such as “over/under” that prove to be entertaining.
A photo backdrop would be a fun way to have pictures taken of the bride and guests. That will help make the moment memorable.
Party favors are encouraged, but not necessary. Most want to send their guests home with a favor as a thank you for coming and/or a memory of the event.
The main points to focus on are making sure the shower is tailored to the bride’s tastes and expectations, having a preset timeline to help the party flow (not too fast and not too slow), and of course, having fun! The main goal of throwing the shower is to celebrate the bride-to-be by surrounding her with family and friends that are excited for the upcoming nuptials.
Hopefully this will set you on the right path for a memorable and successful shower! Enjoy yourself!
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