Traditionally, a bridal shower is an all-female celebration for the bride, her friends/bridesmaids, and close female relatives. It’s a time for relatives to give advice, and for friends to show their support to the bride.
How To Plan A Bridal Shower in Tampa, FL
1. Decide on a bridal shower budget.
Before picking a menu or choosing a theme, the first step of bridal shower planning is deciding on a budget. The host traditionally pays for the shower, and while your first instinct may be to go all out and spoil the bride, we suggest choosing an amount of money that you can easily afford without breaking the bank.
2. Set a date for the shower.
We recommend starting to plan the bridal shower at least six months before the big day, and no less than four months out. The bridal shower should take place about two months before the wedding—consult the bride before you finalize the date to ensure that it works for her schedule and also accommodates her family members.
3. Create a bridal shower guest list.
After you’ve settled on the when the next step when planning a bridal shower is the who. Ask the bride for a list of must-invite people, as well as home addresses for each guest. Just remember: anyone who is invited to the bridal shower should also be invited to the wedding—that includes kids—so clear every guest with the bride before adding them to the list.
4. Choose a bridal shower theme.
Once you’ve finished collecting the addresses and the final guest list has been approved by the bride-to-be, it’s time to choose a bridal shower theme. While having a theme isn’t an essential part of bridal shower planning, it can be the perfect way to add some personality to the party with invitations, food options, and décor.
Feel free to get as creative as you like—for starters, some popular options include a brunch and bubbly theme, a rustic theme, a wine tasting theme, or even a flower arranging party. Whatever you ultimately choose, it should make sense for the bride’s personality and everyday interests.
5. Pick a location for the shower.
Once you’ve finalized the date and have an approximate guest count, you should then decide where you want the party to take place. If you have enough space to host the bridal shower at your house, that is the most traditional option. If not, consider the home of a relative who is close to the bride.
You can also host a bridal shower at a restaurant, a private banquet room, or any venue that speaks to the bride’s interest, such as an art gallery or spa. When in doubt, ask the bride for her opinion! Most importantly, make sure the location is easy to get to, has ample parking, and has enough space to accommodate all of your guests (on the assumption that everyone you invite will attend).
6. Send out the shower invitations.
Plan to finalize, purchase, and mail out the bridal shower invitations about six to eight weeks prior to the event. This will give guests plenty of time to clear their schedules, buy a gift, and let you know if they’re unable to attend.
7. Plan the bridal shower menu and stock the bar.
After you’ve sent out the invitations and the RSVPs start rolling in, you can begin working on the menu for the party. Our main pieces of advice for planning the menu: stick to foods that you know the bride will like, and choose foods that are easily served. If you’re hosting a brunch-themed bridal shower, opt for a mimosa bar, coffee drinks, and breakfast foods like mini waffles or salmon toast.
For a boho-themed shower, a build-your-own-taco station with guacamole and margaritas would be a fun option. Depending on your budget, you can have the meal professionally catered, cook the food yourself, or ask guests you’re close with if they’d be willing to bring a potluck dish.
8. Purchase the décor.
Now it’s time for the fun part: decorations! Once you’ve chosen your bridal shower theme, it’s time to kick your bridal shower décor shopping into high gear. You don’t have to go all out unless you want to—look for items such as Mylar letter balloons, customized posters, tassel garlands, and photo backdrops that will instantly make the space feel personal for the bride. Fresh flowers and candles are great options, too! Check out the WeddingWire Shop for affordable décor ideas, bridal shower favors, plates, and more.
9. Plan out the bridal shower games.
While you’re shopping for décor, it’s a good idea to also look into bridal shower games to entertain guests at the party. Some of the classic bridal shower games include bridal bingo, wedding mad libs, and guessing trivia about the bride. Plan the games for when there’s a natural lull in the party, such as after everyone has finished eating and before the bride opens her gifts.
Bridal shower planning FAQs
- Who is supposed to plan the bridal shower?
The bridal shower is traditionally hosted and planned by the maid or matron of honor. Bridesmaids, parents, and other relatives usually help out by decorating, cooking, and coordinating the logistics of the party.
- Who should pay for the bridal shower?
The host traditionally pays for the bridal shower. If you are co-hosting the shower with bridesmaids or other relatives, you can split the costs evenly.
- What kind of food is served at a bridal shower?
The bridal shower menu should complement the theme of the party, the time of day, and the bride’s personal preferences. For example, if she loves PB&J sandwiches, you can serve bite-sized versions as appetizers or desserts. If your budget allows, consider a catered meal from her favorite restaurant. Crudités, cheese plates, fresh fruit, salads, and pasta dishes are all popular choices for bridal shower menus.
Offer a variety of sweet treats too, such as pastries, cupcakes, brownies, or doughnuts. Lastly, don’t forget the drinks! In addition to non-alcoholic beverages, set up a DIY mimosa or sangria bar so guests can create their own refreshments.
- How long should a bridal shower last?
Most bridal showers last between two and four hours. They typically take place during the late morning or early afternoon—think brunch or luncheon.
More about Complete Weddings + Events Tampa, FL
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