Bridal Shower Planning 101: Themes, Games and Hosting Tips

So, you have been voluntold to plan a bridal shower. First of all, breathe. Second, this is going to be more fun than you think, especially once you have a mimosa in hand.

Bridal showers are the ultimate pre wedding celebration. It is your chance to spoil the bride with love, laughter, and a slightly unnecessary amount of themed decor. But where do you even start?

Right here. Whether you are a seasoned planner or someone who just learned that Pinterest boards do not magically turn into real events, I have you covered. Let’s walk through themes, games, hosting tips, and one very important step that makes the whole thing easier: hiring someone to help you plan it or handle day of coordination so you can relax and actually be present with the bride.

Step 1: Pick a Bridal Shower Theme and Set the Vibe

A theme ties everything together. The decor, the menu, the invitations. And most importantly, it makes the event feel polished instead of thrown together at the last minute.

Here are a few reliable bridal shower themes that work every time.

1. Garden Party Bridal Shower

Think tea, florals, and everyone pretending to know how to hold a teacup correctly.

Where: Backyard, botanical garden, or a tea room

Decor: Fresh flowers, vintage china, pastels

Menu: Tea sandwiches, scones, prosecco

2. Champagne Brunch Bridal Shower

Because nothing says we adore you quite like carbs and bottomless mimosas.

Where: Restaurant, rooftop, dining room

Decor: Gold accents, florals, a DIY mimosa bar

Menu: Waffles, pastries, omelets, a champagne tower

3. Boho Bridal Shower

Relaxed, cozy, and very Instagram friendly.

Where: Barn, garden, or any warm, earthy space

Decor: Dried florals, macramé, neutral tones

Menu: Charcuterie, craft cocktails, rustic desserts

4. Parisian Chic Bridal Shower

Bonjour elegance.

Where: Cute café, wine bar, or anywhere with bistro tables

Decor: Black and white details with soft pink florals

Menu: Macarons, croissants, espresso martinis

5. Tropical Bridal Shower

Perfect for the bride dreaming of Bali.

Where: Poolside, beach, or a tropical styled backyard

Decor: Palm leaves, bright florals, tiki touches

Menu: Coconut shrimp, fruit platters, Mai Tais

Pro tip: Choose a theme based on the bride’s actual personality, not just what looks cute online.

Step 2: Bridal Shower Basics. Budget, Guest List and Invites

Before you order 100 custom napkins with the bride’s face on them, get your foundations in place.

1. Set the Budget

Showers can be boujee or simple. Either way, pick a number and stick to it.Who is paying? What are your priorities? What can be DIY’d to save money?

2. Create the Guest List

Rule number one. If someone is not invited to the wedding, they probably should not be at the shower.Keep it intimate. Bridesmaids, family, close friends. Always get the bride’s approval.

3. Send Out Invitations

Timeline: Four to six weeks before the showerFormat: Paper invites, digital invites, or a group chat if you like chaosInclude the basics. Date, time, location, registry info, RSVP details, and dress code if needed.

Step 3: Set the Scene with Decor and Setup

Here is how to turn your vision into something that feels styled and intentional.

✔ Balloon arch

✔ Floral centerpieces

✔ Photo backdrop

✔ Themed table settings

✔ Mimosa bar or drink station

Pro tip: A signature cocktail makes any shower feel fancy, even if it is just champagne and juice.

Step 4: Keep It Fun with Games and Activities

Nobody wants to sit for two hours watching gifts being opened. Keep the energy up with games or interactive stations.

Games that guests actually enjoy

✔ Who Knows the Bride Best

✔ Bridal Bingo

✔ The Shoe Game with prerecorded answers

✔ Find the Ring

✔ Would She Rather

If games are not your thing

✔ DIY flower crown station

✔ Wine or champagne tasting

✔ Date night idea jar

✔ Personalized vows station

Pro tip: Keep games optional. Some guests love them, others do not.

Step 5: The Menu. Because the Food Matters

Here is a bridal shower menu that never fails.

Brunch Ideas

Mimosas, fruit platters, mini avocado toasts, charcuterie, cupcakes or a theme cake.

Grazing Table and Casual Bites

Signature cocktails, olives, dips, shrimp cocktails, tea sandwiches, petit fours.

Pro tip: A dessert bar or champagne wall is always a hit.

Step 6: Hire Help So You Can Actually Enjoy the Day

One of the biggest mistakes hosts make is trying to plan, decorate, coordinate, host, clean up, and celebrate the bride at the same time. It is exhausting, stressful, and takes you out of the moment.

This is where I come in.

I offer bridal shower planning, event design, and day of coordination so you can show up relaxed and enjoy the celebration instead of running around managing details. Whether you want full planning support or just someone to handle setup, timelines, decor, and guest flow on the day, having professional help makes a huge difference.

You deserve to enjoy the shower as much as the bride. Let me help make that happen.

Final Thoughts. Your Bridal Shower Is Going to Be a Success

At the end of the day, a bridal shower is not about perfection. It is about celebrating the bride and creating a warm, happy moment for everyone.

✔ Pick a theme that fits her personality

✔ Keep food, drinks, and entertainment simple and fun

✔ Help guests feel included

✔ Hire backup if you want to be fully present

Planning a bridal shower? Tell me your theme. I would love to hear what you are working on and help bring it to life.