Most people think bridal showers are just giddy gab-fests jam-packed with giggly women. Ask anyone who has hosted a bridal shower recently and they will tell you that this is serious business.  Even for a small gathering you need a theme, flowers, sweets, games,  and above all; really good food. The truth is that bridal Showers have evolved into full-fledged parties complete with parting gifts and photographers.

Theme:  Don’t worry too much about choosing an elaborate theme that has never been done and matching everything to it because (as with any good party)  the theme can be color. Choose colors that compliment the location, the season and the overall feel of the wedding.  Make sure it is a color the bride loves and don’t forget the invitations to match!

 

Sweets:

Although a giant ice cream or candy buffet may be too causal for the wedding that your bride has in mind, this is the perfect place to implement some of those creative ideas. Cake pops, decorative cookies, cupcakes and decadent candy are all inviting additions to a scrumptious sweet table.

 

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Food:

Even with a casual, buffet style party, having good food will ensure happy guests.  There is nothing that says you have to serve  a seven course meal; have a wide array of sandwiches, snacks, appetizer and remember: presentation is everything!

 

Flowers:

A few touches of beautiful flowers at each table and scattered around the room will add the finishing touch that every good party needs.  Try to make sure the flowers accentuate  the theme and decor of the entire party.  You don’t have to go crazy or spend thousands of dollars on the flowers, simple arrangements can make a big difference.

Favors:

Choosing favors is difficult since everyone has different taste; for every person that loves Precious Moments figurines, there are as many that despise them.  Favors that are edible or that can otherwise be consumed are always a good bet as are favors that also act as a keepsake. The favor is a memento, something that you take home and enjoy, it doesn’t have to cost a fortune or be life-changing. It is a simple token of your affection and should reflect just that, and should be accompanied by a tag or card noting the date and occasion.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

When planning a bridal shower the single most important thing to keep in mind is…. The Bride.  This party is for her,  so although you would prefer a Moroccan theme with chicken curry and exotic flowers, she may prefer tulips and finger sanwiches.  Planning a party around someone else’s likes and dislikes take some patience and planning but, with the right combination of both, it is sure to be a huge success.

 

-Penny Frulla for Bridal Expo Chicago