6 Must-Haves for a Dreamy Bridal Shower

When you’re planning a wedding, time seems to fly by. The happy couple usually works until the very last minute with their family and wedding planners to execute the perfect day they’ll cherish for the rest of their lives. As friends and family of the couple, there are plenty of ways to help ease the stress by shouldering responsibilities and running errands.

But as the big day gets closer, it’s even more important to help the bride slow down and cherish these moments of excitement and anticipation before she begins a new chapter of her life. So, throwing a bridal shower is the perfect way to celebrate the bride-to-be and show her how special she is to you.

What Are the Must-Haves for a Bridal Shower?

While it’s simple to plan a bridal shower, there are a few essentials to keep in mind to help you execute a dreamy gathering that the bride will remember fondly.

A Fun Location

The first order of business is deciding on an appropriate venue. Not only will this be determined by the size of the guest list, but it will also direct decorations and logistics. Moreover, it is only after deciding the location that invites can be sent out to all the attendees.

While a home gathering is always a safe bet, an enchanting location is essential to making it a memorable day for the bride-to-be. Hosting your bridal shower at a resort or a guest ranch could offer options such as wine tastings, a garden brunch, outdoor activities, and luxury cabins. You could even extend the bridal shower into a 2-3 day glamping trip for a unique bonding experience in the lap of nature, while retaining access to modern amenities.

Cohesive Decor

Decorations are an opportunity to direct all the focus to your bride’s upcoming nuptials. Choose a color palette in line with the bride’s favorite colors. Banners and a bridal sash will set the stage for the event, along with tasteful centerpieces for the tables. You could set up an entry table featuring photos of the bride and groom, and even lay out a guest book where attendees can leave messages and blessings for the bride-to-be.

Personalized Gifts

While most couples usually set up a registry leading up to the wedding, personalized gifts for brides can also be a thoughtful gesture and a welcome surprise. Flasks and tumblers are practical gifts to keep the bride hydrated during long meetings hashing out details with the wedding planner. You could also consider a cooler or a monogrammed bridal clutch.

Creative Refreshments

No bridal shower is complete without refreshments. This is an area where you can get creative. Opt for light snacks such as a charcuterie board, canapes, or cupcakes and create a few signature cocktails named after the bride. Make sure to also include non-alcoholic options for the guests who may want soft beverages. Customize the appearance of the cake by matching it to the color palette of the decorations or even adding a unique cake topper.

Games, Music, and Memories

From scratch-off cards and bridal bingo to charades, mad libs, and “How Well Do You Know the Bride” quizzes, there are plenty of fun entertainment options to keep the guests and the bride in high spirits. Raise the stakes by offering fun prizes for different games, such as cosmetic bags or decorative purses with unique detailing – like a shell bag with a pearl handle.

For music, hiring a DJ is a great option. But if the budget is a constraint, and in case you’re doubtful, you can trust that everyone will have a good time with karaoke. Make sure you hire a trusted photographer to chronicle memories for the bride to look back on later. You could also make things interesting by creating a DIY photo booth, filled with props for the guests to pose with.

Bride Tribe Party Favors

Apart from gathering personalized gifts for the bride, party favors for all the guests will make your bridal shower unforgettable. Assembling gift bags is a simple task, but by putting in a bit of thought, you can make all the attendees feel special too. Opt for functional gifts like candles or other spa-related items. Edibles such as cookies and artisanal tea or coffee will also be well appreciated.

The Ultimate Bridal Shower Checklist

As a member of the bride’s closest crew, planning the bridal shower is an important responsibility. However, that is not to say that you need to organize everything in secret. When in doubt, make sure to consult the bride to make sure that everyone she would like to be present is invited to the gathering.

Remember, a bridal shower can be a unique way to share a special day with the bride-to-be, while reminding her that she’s loved. This is an opportunity to bid her adieu if she’s moving to a different state or country, and to share your blessings for her journey ahead. Use these six must-haves as a checklist for a smooth preparation process so you can pull off the most enchanting bridal shower in no time.