You’ve got the ring, the Pinterest board, and maybe even the venue booked…and now someone (your mom, your future MIL, your best friend) is asking, “So… when’s the bridal shower?”
Whether you’re helping plan your own or just trying to show up knowing what to expect, this week’s post is your crash course in all things bridal shower. From what actually happens at one, to registry tips and theme ideas that go beyond “garden party,” we’re covering it all.
What Even Is a Bridal Shower?
Think of it as the pre-wedding party that’s all about you, with snacks, games, and gifts. It’s traditionally thrown by a close friend or family member (not usually the bride herself), and it’s a way to celebrate your upcoming marriage while also helping you prep for your future home and life together.
They usually happen 2 to 3 months before the wedding. It can be as casual or as fancy as you want. Backyard brunch with mimosas? Cute. Chic cocktail party in a rooftop lounge? Also cute. Do what feels right.
Setting Up Your Registry
This part can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. The goal is to give your guests options in a range of price points, while helping you build a foundation for married life.
A few registry tips:
- Pick two or three places, max. Target, Amazon, Crate & Barrel, Zola — mix and match to suit your style
- Include items at all price points. Everyone has a different budget, and you want people to feel comfortable
- Think long-term. That $200 mixer might feel like a stretch now, but someone may want to go in on it as a group gift
- Add practical and personal stuff. It’s fine to register for mixing bowls and a board game you love
- Update it regularly. Keep an eye on what’s been purchased and add new items if your list gets too picked over
Pro tip: Don’t wait too long to make your registry live. People will want to shop early, especially if you have guests who like to plan ahead.
Picking a Theme (Because It Makes Everything Easier)
A theme helps give the shower a cohesive look and makes planning way more fun. It doesn’t have to be over-the-top. It just ties the decor, invites, food, and maybe the dress code together.
Some theme ideas to get you started:
- Brunch & Bubbly — cute pastries, mimosas, soft florals
- Backyard Garden Party — think tea sandwiches, string lights, and spring vibes
- Tropical Escape — fruity drinks, palm leaves, and a laid-back playlist
- A Touch of Glam — champagne tower, disco balls, chic black-and-white color palette
- Pajamas & Pancakes — matching PJ sets, comfort food, and a cozy vibe
- Book/Film/TV-Inspired — “Love, Actually” theme, “Bridgerton” garden party, or a rom-com marathon shower
It doesn’t have to be super on-the-nose. Just pick a general feel and run with it.
What Actually Happens at a Bridal Shower
Here’s the usual flow:
- Guests arrive, mingle, snack
- Someone gives a little welcome speech (usually the host)
- There might be games or activities
- The bride opens gifts
- More mingling, dessert, and goodbyes
And yes — the gift opening part is still a thing. Some showers skip it, but most keep it in. If you’re not into being the center of attention while unwrapping bath towels, you can always do a more low-key version or open some of the gifts privately later.
Bridal Shower Traditions to Know (and Feel Free to Skip)
- The “bow bouquet.” Someone collects the bows and ribbons from your gifts and turns them into a bouquet for your rehearsal. It’s cheesy, but kind of cute.
- Games. Think “How well do you know the bride?” trivia, bridal bingo, or “guess the love song.” If games aren’t your thing, skip them. No one will riot.
- Advice cards. Guests write down marriage advice or favorite date night ideas. Some are heartfelt, some are hilarious.
- Thank you cards. You’ll want to send these out within a few weeks of the shower. Keep a list as you open gifts so you’re not scrambling later.
If You’re the Bride (But Not the Planner)
You don’t have to plan your own shower, and honestly, it’s nice to let someone else take the reins for once. Still, it’s totally okay to give your host a wishlist of ideas or details that matter to you. Maybe you want a specific vibe, or maybe you just really don’t want to play the toilet paper wedding dress game. Speak up. It’s your day.
It’s Not Just a Party. It’s a Warm-Up for the Big One.
At the end of the day, your bridal shower is a chance to slow down, feel celebrated, and enjoy being surrounded by people who love you. It’s not about making it perfect, it’s about marking the moment.
Next week, we’ll be talking about bachelorette parties: from wild nights out to wine country weekends, how to plan one that actually fits your style.
In the meantime, go start that registry, screenshot some theme inspo, and maybe drop a gentle hint to your maid of honor. You’ve got this.
