ultimate bridal shower planning checklist

After forming part of hundreds of Bridal Showers in the industry as well as planning them for my sisters I have become an expert on the subject, understanding that it can be a joyous yet detailed task, for I have crafted the ultimate checklist to ensure everything goes smoothly and the event is memorable for you and the Bride to Be:

2-3 Months Before the Shower

1. Set the Date

   • Consult with the bride and key guests for availability.

   • Choose a date that works best for most attendees.

2. Create a Budget

   • Determine the total budget for the shower.

   • Allocate funds for venue, food, decorations, games, and favors.

3. Choose a Theme

   • Discuss with the bride any specific themes and colors she prefers.

   • Select a theme that aligns with her personality and interests.

   • Know her Must-haves and absolutely Nos

   • In lost of ideas for bridal shower themes? no worries we have gathered some for you here !

4. Compile the Guest List

   • Work with the bride to finalize the guest list.

   • Collect addresses and contact information for all guests.

5. Select a Venue

   • Decide whether to host the shower at someone’s home, a restaurant, or a rented space.

   • Book the venue(if necessary).

6-8 Weeks Before the Shower

1. Send Invitations

   • Mail physical invitations or send digital invites or both !

   • Include RSVP information and any necessary details about the theme or dress code.

2. Plan the Menu

   • Decide on the type of food: homemade, catered, or potluck.

   • Consider dietary restrictions and preferences of the bride and guests.

3. Organize Games and Activities

   • Choose a variety of games and activities that fit the theme. We have compiled a list of our favorites here.

   • Begin gathering/ordering any necessary materials or supplies for the games.

4. Order Decorations and Favors

   • Purchase or make decorations that match the theme.

   • Consider the following:

     • Flower Wall

     • Balloon arrangements

     • Centerpieces & table numbers

     • Bride to Be chair decor

     • Welcome sign decor

     • Name cards table decor

     • Dessert Table set up

     • Guest Book and set up

     • Champagne or Favor walls or station

     • Photo Station

   • Order or create party favors for guests to take home.

5. Find and hire vendors. Some ideas for vendors you might need are :

   • Photographer

   • Flower Wall

   • Photo Booth

   • Dessert Table or Cart

   • Flower Cart

   • DJ and/ or MC

   • Event Planner

   • Decorator

   • Make up artists for Bride to Be

   • BTS social media content creator

4-6 Weeks Before the Shower

1. Confirm RSVPs

   • Follow up with guests who haven’t responded.

   • Finalize the number of attendees.

2. Arrange for Any Rentals

   • If needed, rent tables, chairs, linens, or other equipment.

   • Confirm delivery and pickup times.

3. Plan the Schedule

   • Create a timeline for the shower, including arrival, games, gift opening, and food.

   • Assign roles to co-hosts or helpers for various tasks.

4. Prepare Music Playlist or coordinate with DJ

   • Create a playlist of the bride’s favorite songs or tunes that match the theme.

   • Arrange for any necessary sound equipment.

1-2 Weeks Before the Shower

1. Confirm menu selection for the day of event

   • Confirm menu selection with venue or caterer.

   • Ensure you have enough drinks, including non-alcoholic options.

2. Confirm All Arrangements

   • Verify details with the venue, caterer, and any other vendors.

   • Request Certificate of Insurance from vendors if applicable

   • Double-check game supplies and decorations.

3. Wrap Gifts for Games and Favors

   • Prepare and wrap any prizes for games.

   • Assemble and wrap guest favors.

4. Create a Menu Card & Itinerary

   • Create a menu card with planned itinerary of the day. Guests will appreciate knowing what to anticipate for.

1-2 Days Before the Shower

1. Decorate the Venue

   • Set up decorations and arrange tables and chairs.

   • Prepare any photo booth or special activity areas.

2. Prepare Food and Drinks

   • Finalize menu with the venue

   • Cook or prepare any make-ahead dishes.

   • Arrange for final food preparation on the day of the shower.

3. Set Up Game Stations and Game Cards

   • Organize materials for each game.

   • Ensure you have any necessary instructions printed and ready.

Day of the Shower

1. Final Touches

   • Complete any last-minute decorating.

   • Set up seating charts (if applicable)

   • Place menu cards

   • Set out food and drinks just before guests arrive, or coordinate with venue on when the appetizers, main course, coffee and desserts will be served

2. Welcome Guests

   • Greet guests and help them get settled.

   • Introduce any icebreaker activities to get the party started.

3. Host the Event

   • Keep the event on schedule, guiding guests through games and activities.

   • Assist the bride during gift opening, noting who gave each gift for thank-you notes.

4. Enjoy!

   • Take time to relax and enjoy the celebration.

   • Capture memories with photos and videos.

Well Here it is ! Hope this short and concise checklist helps make things easier. Wish you a well-organized, enjoyable, and memorable bridal shower for the bride-to-be and her guests !

XO,

Lily