Bridal Shower Planning
Legend has it that the first bridal shower was held in the Middle Ages for a young women whose wealthy father forbade her from marrying her true love because he was a poor miller. Because the father failed to provide the traditional dowry that was customary at the time, the townspeople gathered together to “shower” the new couple with prized possessions to set up their home. Even though the days of dowries are long gone, the tradition of the bridal shower remains. Whether large or small, showers are a time for a bride’s friends and family to gather to celebrate her union and provide her and her future husband with gifts to start their happy life together.
Use our step-by-step checklist and tips to plan a shower for your bride-to-be!
*Note: The items in italics are only necessary if hosting the party in your home.
Six to Eight Weeks before the Party
• If you are hosting the shower with other women, meet to discuss details and begin planning. Popular hosts for bridal showers include bridesmaids and female family members or friends. While it used to be considered a faux pas for a member of the bride’s family to host the shower, it is now considered perfectly acceptable.
• Set your shower date and time. The shower can be held any time after the couple is engaged right up until a few weeks before the wedding.
• Research party themes. Themes will often dictate the presents guests will bring so if you go this route, make sure it is clearly stated on the invitation. Popular themes include kitchen, lingerie and around-the-clock showers where each guest is assigned a time of day and must bring a gift that relates to that time (i.e. 9 a.m. might bring a coffee maker).
• Finalize your guest list. Make sure to consult with the bride and be sure to invite the groom’s side of the family as well.
• Make sure you know where the couple is registered so you can pass the word on to inquiring guests.
• Find and reserve a location if having the party away from your home.
• Order and mail invitations.
Four Weeks before the Party
• Keep a list of invitees near the phone for RSVP's. If you are accepting RSVP’s via email, consider setting up a spreadsheet on your computer.
• Plan your party menu. If caterering, hire your caterer. Make sure the bride’s favorite foods are well-represented!
• If ordering favors, do so now.
Two Weeks before the Party
• Order cake, if not provided by outside facility.
• Order any party rental equipment if needed.
• If doing games or activities at the shower, gather all necessary components.
• Take inventory of kitchen items and tableware to use for the party.
One Week before the Party
• Buy non-perishable food and beverages.
• If the party is outside your home or you hired a caterer, call to confirm details.
• Call or email guests who haven't yet replied.
• Arrange for someone to record names and gifts given to give to the Bride-to-be for thank you cards. This is usually a Bridesmaid duty!
• Order flowers or decorations.
Two Days before the Party
• Check camera batteries & film. Charge batteries if necessary.
• Buy groceries.
• Prepare a list of guests to record gifts.
Day before the Party
• Pick up flowers or other table centerpieces.
• Clean bathrooms & party area.
• Prepare any food that can be refrigerated overnight.
Party Day
• Pick up cake and ice.
• Set up table and bar.
• Tie some balloons to the mailbox or front porch.
• Prepare all food.
• Decorate tables with flowers or centerpieces.
• Arrange favors and/or place cards.
• Check bathrooms for toilet paper, soap & towels.
• Relax, smile & have fun!
