Planning A Wedding Shower: A Step-By-Step Guide

Planning a wedding shower is an exciting time for the couple and their loved ones. Wedding showers are a great way to get everyone excited for the big day and typically take place two to three months before the wedding. Wedding showers are usually a celebration for the couple to be showered with gifts, although this is not necessary. The event usually lasts between two and four hours, with guests enjoying food, games and mingling.

Announce the date at least two months in advance

Wedding showers are typically held two to three months before the wedding day. This gives everyone enough time to make arrangements to fit both events into their schedules. It's also a good idea to announce the date at least two months in advance so that guests can plan accordingly. Wedding showers usually last around 2-4 hours, offering time for guests to mingle, eat, play games, and watch the couple open gifts.

The key to a stress-free planning season is to have a solid timeline to guide you along the way. This will ensure that you can plan the perfect wedding shower. It's important to discuss all ideas, dates, etc. with the couple and consult them on the final guest list. You should also purchase decor and party favours in advance.

A bridal shower is traditionally an all-female celebration for the bride, her friends/bridesmaids, and close female relatives from both sides of the family. Activities usually include a mix of eating, playing games, and mingling. The main event is when the bride opens her gifts, which are typically items that guests have purchased from the couple's wedding registry.

Plan activities, including games and gift-giving

Wedding showers are a great way to get everyone excited for the upcoming wedding. They usually take place two to three months before the wedding day, and last for around two to four hours. This is enough time for guests to mingle, eat, play games, and watch the couple open gifts.

When it comes to activities, games are a great way to keep guests entertained. You could organise a few simple games, such as bridal shower bingo, a newlywed game, or a scavenger hunt. You could also have a photo booth with fun props, or set up a station for guests to write messages to the couple.

Gift-giving is a common part of wedding showers, but it is not necessary. If you do choose to include gifts, it's a good idea to think of something that will be useful for both the bride and groom. This could be something from their wedding registry, or something more unique and personal.

Finally, don't forget to plan some time for the couple to open their gifts and thank their guests. This is usually the main event of the shower, and a great way to show your support and excitement for the upcoming wedding.

Choose a theme

Choosing a theme is a fun part of planning a wedding shower. The theme should be something that reflects the couple's interests and personalities. If the couple has a favourite hobby or activity, consider incorporating that into the theme. For example, if they love cooking, you could have a culinary-themed shower with cooking demonstrations or a food-themed game. Or, if they're into sports, you could have a sports-themed shower with games and activities inspired by their favourite sport.

Another idea is to choose a theme that ties into the wedding destination or the couple's heritage. For example, if the wedding is taking place in a tropical location, you could have a beach-themed shower with tropical decorations and drinks. Or, if the couple has a particular cultural background, you could incorporate traditions and customs from that culture into the shower.

The theme can also be inspired by the season or time of year. For instance, a springtime wedding shower could have a floral or garden party theme, while a winter shower could embrace a cosy, festive atmosphere.

Finally, don't be afraid to get creative and think outside the box. Unique themes, such as a vintage-inspired tea party or a glamorous Hollywood-themed event, can make the celebration extra special and memorable. Whatever theme you choose, ensure it aligns with the couple's vision and creates a fun and enjoyable experience for all the guests.

Consult the couple on the guest list

When planning a wedding shower, it's important to consult the couple on the guest list. Wedding showers are typically an all-female celebration for the bride, her friends/bridesmaids, and close female relatives from both sides of the family, such as grandmothers, aunts, and cousins. However, the couple may have different preferences or want to include other guests.

The guest list will also depend on the number of attendees the couple wants and the planned activities. For example, if they want to include a seated meal, the number of guests may be limited by the venue.

It's also important to consider the couple's preferences when it comes to the guest list. For example, if they prefer a more intimate gathering, you may need to limit the number of guests. On the other hand, if they want a larger celebration, you can plan for a higher guest count.

Finally, it's essential to give guests enough notice to plan their attendance. Wedding showers typically take place two to three months before the wedding, and it's recommended to announce the date at least two months in advance. This gives guests enough time to make arrangements and ensures that everyone can attend.

Purchase decor and party favours

When it comes to purchasing decor and party favours for a wedding shower, it's important to keep the couple's preferences in mind. Wedding showers typically take place two to three months before the wedding day, so you'll want to start planning early enough to ensure you have everything you need.

Discuss with the couple to get a sense of their style and preferences. Do they have a specific theme or colour scheme in mind? Are there any particular decorations or favours they would like to see at the shower? Keeping the couple involved in the planning process ensures that the event reflects their tastes and personalities.

Once you have an idea of the couple's vision, it's time to start shopping! Decorations can include items such as balloons, streamers, banners, centrepieces, and table settings. Party favours can be anything from small gifts to personalised treats. If you're looking for something unique, consider custom-made favours that reflect the couple's interests or hobbies.

When purchasing decor and favours, don't forget to consider the practical aspects as well. How many guests will be attending? Will the venue accommodate your chosen decorations? Are there any dietary restrictions or allergies you need to accommodate for party favours involving food?

By keeping the couple involved, starting early, and paying attention to the details, you'll be well on your way to creating a memorable and enjoyable wedding shower for the happy couple and their guests.

Frequently asked questions