Bridal Shower Event Planning: A Maid of Honor’s Guide to Pulling Off the Perfect Party (Without Going Broke)
Planning a bridal shower is exciting… until it’s not. If you’re the maid of honor (or one of the bride’s besties) trying to throw the perfect pre-wedding bash without breaking the bank, you’re in the right place.
This guide walks you through everything you need to do, when to do it, and how to keep your sanity along the way. Plus, there’s a free printable checklist to keep you on track!
📅 When to Start Planning a Bridal Shower
Give yourself at least two months before the date of the bridal shower. More time is better, especially if the bride has a lot of out-of-town guests or a busy wedding schedule.
🎨 Choose a Theme or Vibe
While a theme isn’t required, it definitely helps tie everything together. Here are a few fun ideas:
- Brunch & Bubbly: Think mimosas, mini waffles, and a soft pink + gold palette.
- Garden Party: Florals, flowing dresses, and lemonade in glass pitchers.
- Boho Chic: Pampas grass, neutral tones, and a backyard picnic setup.
- Tea Party: Vintage china, dainty sandwiches, and pastel colors.
- Beachy Bride: Seashell accents, tropical drinks, and sun hats.
🎀 Pick a theme that fits the bride’s personality — not just what’s trendy on Pinterest.
📝 Step-by-Step Bridal Shower Planning Timeline
Want the full checklist? Download the Printable Bridal Shower Planning Checklist
2 Months Before
- Set the date with the bride
- Decide on a budget
- Confirm co-hosts
- Book the venue or pick a location
- Make the guest list
- Choose a theme or vibe
6 Weeks Before
- Send printed invitations (yep, they’re still classy!)
- Plan the menu
- Order or buy decorations
- Choose and prep games/activities
- Plan favors or thank-you gifts
1 Month Before
- Start collecting RSVPs
- Buy supplies
- Order desserts (or plan to DIY!)
- Set up a photo area backdrop
1 Week Before
- Confirm RSVPs
- Finalize food & drink plans
- Test your playlist/speaker
- Prep games and decor
- Clean/prep the space
Day Before
- Pick up food and drinks
- Decorate (if possible)
- Set up table and games
- Charge phone/camera
Day Of
- Finish setup
- Greet guests and get the party started!
- Take LOTS of pictures
- Clean up and thank everyone
🕹️ Bridal Shower Games & Activities
Don’t stress too much — pick 2–3 activities that get people talking and laughing. Some faves:
- How Well Do You Know the Bride? quiz
- Toilet Paper Wedding Dress game
- Advice for the Bride cards
- Bridal Bingo (great during gift opening)
Keep it light, easy, and fun. Avoid anything that could make guests (or the bride) feel awkward.
🍓 Food & Drinks on a Budget
- Make it potluck-style and have each bridesmaid bring a dish
- Charcuterie boards look luxe but are super affordable to DIY
- Stick with a signature drink instead of a full bar
Bonus points for cute signage like “Love is Brewing” by the coffee station or “Sip Sip Hooray” at the mimosa bar.
💝 Cute but Cheap Favors
You don’t have to go overboard — guests just appreciate the gesture.
- Mini candles
- Bath bombs
- Lip balm with custom labels
- Flower seed packets (“Let Love Grow”)
Look for bulk buys and consider printing your own labels to personalize them.
📸 Capture the Memories
Set up a simple photo backdrop using your color scheme — maybe a streamer wall, faux greenery, or a balloon arch. Don’t forget props!
You can also create a shared Google Photos album or use a hashtag so guests can upload their pics.
✨ Final Thoughts: Keep It Fun, Not Flawless
At the end of the day, the bride will remember the laughter and love — not whether the cupcakes were from a bakery or boxed mix. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, keep your checklist handy, and most of all, enjoy celebrating your best girl.
📎 Click here to download the free Bridal Shower Planning Checklist (PDF)
Got a favorite bridal shower theme or game? Share it in the comments — I’d love to hear your ideas!
And if this post helped you out, don’t forget to pin it or share it with your bride tribe!
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