Bridal Shower Planning

The ideal time to host a bridal shower is six weeks before the wedding. You'll need about eight weeks to plan a formal bridal shower and less if the bridal shower is super casual. If the bridal shower is not a surprise, then talk with the bride about when she'd like to have the shower and if she'd like a certain theme. If the bridal shower is a surprise, get together with the bride's closest family and friends to decide on these factors.

A week before the shower, you should:  

• Prepare anything that can be frozen ahead
• Call anyone who has not responded to the invitation
• Check all recipes and buy the ingredients
• Either clean your home or hire someone to do it
• If you will need extra refrigerator space, call a neighbor
• Decide what you are wearing, making sure it is pressed and ready to wear
• Fill in place cards for those attending

The day before the shower, make sure you:

• Purchase, pick up, or make the rest of the food on your menu
• Check your home for last minute cleaning
• Set up extra chairs for guests
• Check to be sure you have enough ice
• Try to set up a spot to display the bride's gifts
• Check to see what time the flowers will be delivered or pick them up yourself
• Have plastic trash bag ready for wrappings
• Provide a pad and pen for list of gifts and who gave them (one of the bridesmaids usually writes the list)