Hosting a bridal shower is a lovely honor, and a little planning makes it stress-free. Here's a simple checklist to take you from the first idea to the last thank-you.
2 to 3 months before
- Talk to the bride. Ask about her preferred date, style and guest list. Some brides like a surprise, but most want a say.
- Set a budget. Decide whether you're hosting alone or with others.
- Choose a date. Most showers happen one to three months before the wedding.
- Pick a venue. A home, restaurant, tea room or garden all work well.
- Get the guest list. Only invite guests who are also invited to the wedding.
6 to 8 weeks before
- Choose a theme. Brunch, garden party, tea party or an elegant luncheon.
- Order invitations. Matching the bride's wedding suite is a thoughtful touch. Our Black & White Orchids collection includes a bridal shower invitation in the same design as the wedding stationery.
- Plan the menu. Light bites, a signature drink and dessert are plenty.
4 to 6 weeks before
- Mail invitations. Include the date, time, address, host's name, RSVP details and the registry on a small insert card.
- Plan games and activities. Bridal bingo, advice cards or a "how well do you know the couple" quiz.
- Order decor. Welcome sign, napkins, favor tags and a guest book.
1 to 2 weeks before
- Confirm numbers with the venue or caterer.
- Buy or order favors. Mini candles, honey jars or cookies with matching tags.
- Plan the schedule. Arrival, food, games, gifts and dessert.
On the day
- Set up early, with a gift table and a spot for cards.
- Assign someone to write down each gift and who gave it.
- Take photos of the bride with her guests.
After the shower
- Give the bride the gift list so she can write thank-you notes.
- Share photos with guests.
Bridal shower etiquette tips
- Guests invited to the shower should be invited to the wedding.
- It's fine to include registry details with a shower invitation.
- Traditionally, close friends or bridesmaids host, but family members host often today too.
Bridal shower game ideas
- Bridal bingo: guests fill in cards with gifts they think the bride will open.
- He said, she said: guess which partner said each quote.
- Advice cards: guests write marriage advice for the couple to keep.
- Recipe cards: each guest shares a favorite recipe for the couple's first kitchen.
Matching game cards in the shower's design make even the activities look polished.
The bottom line
Start early, keep the bride involved and let matching stationery make everything look effortless. For invitation wording, see our wedding invitation wording guide.