When wedding season is upon us, it can get overwhelming remembering the attention to detail when it comes to the various festivities hosted. So, we decided to take that burden off your shoulders and provide you with everything you need to know about the bridal shower so you feel confident taking on this event. 

If you’re finding yourself wondering what a bridal shower is and where and when you host one, you came to the right place. 

What is a Bridal Shower?

A bridal shower is usually an afternoon event that is hosted in celebration of the bride’s upcoming marriage. It’s traditionally an opportunity for guests to bring gifts for the couple’s new home. However, there have been shifts in trends recently with couple’s throwing a wedding shower, where both the bride and groom are present, and family and friends of both are present.

When Do You Throw a Bridal Shower?

This can vary depending on preferences and timing in the bride’s life. Typically, bridal showers are thrown anywhere between three months out, to two weeks prior to the wedding. On top of that, you will want to make sure you send invitations out 4-6 weeks prior to the shower.

Where Are Bridal Showers Held?

Bridal showers can be held at various locations depending on the bride’s wants and needs. Typically, the shower is held close to the bride’s hometown, however, it can be thrown in any location. Great venues for bridal showers can be restaurants with outdoor patios, wine tasting vineyards, event venues, a close family member or friend’s home, and so forth. 

How to Plan a Bridal Shower?

1. Set a Budget

The first thing you will want to do is set an overall budget. Then take that budget and break it down into smaller categories such as venue space rental, décor, catering, activities and so forth. This will help you track and manage your budget easily.

2. Choose a Date

Next, you will want to choose a date. We think it’s a good idea to have a few dates that work in mind so as you start looking at different venues, you have backup options in case they are booked. Make sure the date works for the majority of the party so the bride has everyone there to support her.

3. Select on a Venue

Now, you will choose a venue and see if the dates you have in mind work for the event space. This will bring your shower to life, and you want to make sure it coordinates with your vision aesthetic. 

4. Decide on Dress Code

You will also want to decide on the attire. Do you want to go cute and casual? Elevated? Formal? This will be important to include on your invites you send out.

5. Create a Theme

While you don’t have to create a theme, having an overall aesthetic to the event can make it even more beautiful and memorable. Popular themes are Parisian, tea party, floral, and monochromatic colors.

6. Send Out Invites

Now that you have decided on all the details, you will want to send out the invites, so your guests have all the details. Make sure you send these out 4-6 weeks in advance. 

7. Set Menu

Personalizing and customizing the menu to your bride’s taste preferences can be so fun. You can coordinate the menu with the theme and décor you choose to make everything come together seamlessly.

8. Finalize Activities

Finally, you will want to make sure you decide on your activities and entertainment. Will you have games and activities? A photobooth? Wine tasting? Making sure there are things the bride loves will make her feel so special.

With so many venues in LA to choose from, we at Ovation Square have one of the largest venues in downtown Long Beach. We have several smaller rooms for hosting more intimate events and would love to help you plan your next bridal shower.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is it better to send out electronic invites or mail invites?
A: It really depends on your preferences. Digital can be convenient and good for tracking RSVPs, however, mail invitations can come across as more formal and intimate. We say, go with what you’re leaning towards.

Q: Could I do a buffet style for the menu?
A: We think that’s a great idea at events like this because the visual display can be beautiful and people can pick away as they are hungry throughout.

Q: What kind of games should I choose?
A: There are so many fun bridal shower games to choose from that can revolve around the bride’s likes and preferences, who knows her best through various questions, and so forth. You can also look up bridal shower games and you will find endless lists of them.