10 Steps to Hosting the Perfect Bridal Shower

If this is your first foray into the world of weddings and most importantly, planning bridal showers, you may not be entirely familiar about expectations. That's exactly where we come in! No matter what theme your bride-to-be would love, we've pulled together the steps for hosting the perfect bridal shower!

10 Steps to Hosting the Perfect Bridal Shower

Discover 10 easy steps to hosting the perfect bridal shower for your bride-to-be! From ideas to make sure you're not stressed leading up to the event, to tips for how to make it a celebration to remember, we're sharing all of our bridal shower advice!

1. Delegate Tasks

Though traditionally the maid of honor is in charge of throwing a bridal shower, one person can’t be expected to do everything! Even professional party planners have assistants... so, gather up the rest of the bridesmaids and figure out some tasks that cater to each individual’s strength. Photo by EDLT Photo; From Real Bridal Shower: Modern Spring Bridal Shower with a Pink, Gold & Black Color Palette

2. Invite Wisely

The bride shouldn’t work on her own bridal shower, but she should be consulted on the guest list. You don’t want to snub someone because you didn’t realize how close she is to her coworkers, or worse – invite someone who she had a falling out with. Don't be afraid to ask!Photo by Brett Hickman Photographers; From Real Bridal Shower: Romantic, Vintage-Inspired Outdoor Bridal Shower with Pastel Décor

3. Make it Personal

While the wedding represents the couple, the bridal shower is an event where it really is all about the bride. Make that clear by selecting a theme that reflects the bride’s taste and interests. Photo by Lin & Jirsa Photography

4. Supply Snacks

A full meal is not necessary, but elegant finger foods such a tea sandwiches and other hors d'oeuvres will keep guests satisfied. Photo by Steve Steinhardt; Planning & Design by Beth Helmstetter Events, Inc.; From Real Bridal Shower: Parisian-Inspired Bridal Shower in Southern California

5. Have Specialty Drinks

There’s no reason for the wedding day to hog the specialty cocktail trend. Discover a theme-appropriate drink to serve, and make sure to offer fun non-alcoholic options as well. Consider a fun mimosa bar if you're having a brunch bridal shower! Photo by Berit Bizjak Photography; From Real Bridal Shower: A Farm-to-Table Brunch & Wine Tasting Wedding Shower in New Jersey

6. Present Unique Activities

Instead of the standbys of creating wedding dresses out of bathroom tissue, offer activities that the guests would actually do in their spare time, such as perfume making, wine tasting, painting, or cupcake decorating. Photo by Boyd Harris Photographs; From Real Bridal Shower: Gold, Ivory & Blush Bridal Shower at the Fairmont Grand Del Mar

7. Highlight the Bride

Keep the focus on the guest of honor with signs for her seat and drink or even a flower crown in place of a stand-in veil. Also, most brides-to-be choose to wear a white gown to denote they're the bride, so if this is the case, just make sure no one else wears white! Photo by Jessica Claire Photography; Planning & Design by International Event Company; From Real Bridal Shower: Unique & Chic Bridal Shower with Dark and Moody Color Scheme

8. Take Note of Gifts

While the bride opens her gifts, discreetly keep track of which guest gave which present. Send her the list after the event; she will be grateful for how much easier you’ve made writing thank-you notes. Photo by Samuel Lippke Studios; From Real Bridal Shower: Pretty Bridal Shower with Pink Details in Beverly Hills, California

9. Involve the Groom

Though he should not attend the actual festivities, surreptitiously obtaining a letter or video message from the groom for the party, or even arranging a quick visit or game, is a nice way to highlight the real reason for the fête – their upcoming marriage. Photo by Samuel Lippke Studios; From Real Bridal Shower: Pretty Bridal Shower with Pink Details in Beverly Hills, California

10. Provide Festive Favors

As with wedding favors, be mindful of what might actually be useful to some guests. There are plenty of darling trinkets that seem great in theory, but wind up filling junk drawers. Photo by Brett Hickman Photographers; Linens by Luxe Linen; From Real Bridal Shower: Romantic, Vintage-Inspired Outdoor Bridal Shower with Pastel Décor

Wondering when to have a bridal shower or looking for a unique bridal shower idea? You will find everything you need to know on our website. Find more inspiration for bridal showers by taking a look at these real weddings and browsing our wedding photo galleries!

Opening photo by Amy & Stuart Photography; Planning & Design by Alyson Fox, Levine Fox Events, Inc.; From Real Bridal Shower: Vintage, Downton Abbey-Inspired Garden Tea Party Bridal Shower