Planning Around a Theme

Planning a shower and wedding around a theme is becoming very popular. This goes beyond planning around one or two colors. Planning a specific them gives the bride and groom a chance to express themselves in a fun way.

The theme might revolve around the time of year that the shower and wedding are taking place. Besides the four seasons, bridal showers can also be planned around a specific holiday or event, such as a Valentine theme for February brides or maybe a beach theme in the Summer.

Some other bridal shower themes to consider include:

-An English tea party-Fancy tea cups (mismatched is fine), fresh cut flowers, an assortment of teas, finger sandwiches, and desserts such as scones and tea cakes will make for the perfect tea party themed bridal shower.

- Garden party: An outdoor garden party centered around pretty flowers is ideal for the springtime.

- Hawaiian Luau: Include pineapples, leis and Hawaiian flowers along with luau type foods.

- Las Vegas: For a completely different twist on the usual bridal shower, have a Las Vegas themed event complete with card games, a roulette wheel and dice. Held in the early evening, this is a fun way to combine a bridal shower with a ladies night out.

- Pajama party: Have guests dress in their comfiest pajamas and serve foods such as pizza, popcorn, soda, sandwiches, and plenty of other snacks.

- Spa party: This works best for smaller groups. Pamper everyone and treat them to an afternoon of manicures, pedicures, massages, facials, and lots of relaxation.

Invitations and Shower Favors

Bridal shower invitations should include the following bits of information:

- Bride's first and last name - Date and time - Where the shower is being held - Who is hosting the shower - RSVP date and contact phone number - The theme, if any - Where the couple is registered - Maps and directions, if necessary

Shower favors are the perfect way for the bride-to-be to say thanks for coming and celebrating. Instead of the usual few pieces of candy wrapped in tulle and tied with color coordinated ribbon, take the time to think of something different that your guests will remember the occasion by. For example, if you were having a beach theme you could find little keychains that look starfish or sandals.

Bridal Shower Timeline

- Two months before: Set the budget, decide on the style or theme of the shower, set the date, choose and reserve the location, create a guest list, plan the menu, choose the games, delegate tasks to other members of the bridal party, purchase the invitations.

- One month before: Send the invitations, order the cake, create and organize shopping lists, purchase the decorations and game prizes.

- One week before: Order the food, chairs, linens, and tableware if necessary, purchase the bride's gift and confirm reservations.

- One day before: Begin decorating, pick up the cake, wrap the bride's gift and game prizes, prepare street signs if needed, and prepare any food items that can be made in advance.

- The day of the shower: Arrange the food, drinks, finish any decorating, have a tablet handy to record a list of gifts received, and finally, relax and have a good time at the shower!