5 Tips for an Unforgettable Bridal Shower

Besides the number of weddings we do every month, we get a number of baby, bridal, and birthday parties. We thought we'd share our top 5 tips for anyone planning a bridal shower for their bestie. Lessons learned and lived in the event industry!

1. Know Her Favorites
Typically it is traditional for the maid of honor and bridesmaids to host the bridal shower. However, that is not to say that the bride shouldn’t be involved with the planning—after all, it is her party so it should be special according to her liking. Ask her about her ideas on themes, favorite colors, or her favorite cocktails.

2. Make a Timeline
Planning a party can be stressful, but taking the time to map out all the important details can help ease the stress and keep your team on track. Not only will having a timeline help keep things organized, but it will also ensure that you give your guests enough notice to save the date!

Most people plan their bridal showers a month or two before the actual wedding, so it is important that you give yourself enough time to plan ahead.

Details such as your date, guest list, location/time of day, theme, and budget should be determined a few months before the actual party. Also, don’t forget to consult important guests to ensure that there are no conflicting dates. Other details such as decorations, caterers, and wedding invitations should be done within the month before the party. It is also important to make it a point to contact your florist, confirm RSVP’s and deliveries, games, and favors a few weeks prior.

You’ll also want to note the flow of the day, what time is food being served? When will games begin? This keeps the event moving along and guests from wondering what’s next.

3. Remember: Less Is More When It Comes To Décor And Games
Although it is nice, sometimes you don’t always need a red carpet or giant floating lanterns. If there are too many decorations it can be overwhelming and make the area look cluttered. Casual, relaxed, and pretty is the general vibe you're aiming for. Look into DIY decorations and favors as well. Certain types of furniture such as a peacock chair, can also add a nice touch. Same goes for the games; if there are too many games, it’ll be hard for your guest to relax and socialize with one another. Instead, maybe have one or two games that focus on the bride or a quiz on the bride and groom.

4. Get Personal
Opening up to people can be intimidating, but it also important that everyone is comfortable and having fun! It helps if everyone is familiar with one another; take the time to introduce your guests to each other by encouraging an icebreaker or telling how they know the bride. And don’t forget about the groom! Although it is a bridal shower, it doesn't mean that he shouldn't be involved as well. A fun way to do so is to have your bride and groom fill out a questionnaire and compare the answers or even ask about his version of their love story. You could also ask input from the mothers or other important family members of the bride and groom.

5. Hire a Photographer
With all this effort being put into this eventful day, you want to make sure that not a single moment is missed. Often times the host is occupied making things go according to plan and you want your guests to be socializing and having fun. Hiring a photographer will ensure that every memory is captured for the bride and groom to look back on. Before hiring a photographer you could do your research beforehand and look through their website, Instagram, or other galleries to see whose style fits best with your party’s vision.