Bridal Shower Planning Checklist

Easily host a shower for a loved one by following this timeline.

Preparation

Pick a date. Showers should be held about two weeks to two months before the wedding. Earlier is better.
Compile a guest list. As the host, you should set the number of guests you're comfortable inviting. If the shower isn't a surprise, consult with the bride about whom to include.
Choose a theme. But only if you wish.
Related: Unique Bridal Shower Themes
Determine the location. It could be your home or a nearby venue.
Buy or make an invitation. Is the shower a surprise? Be sure to clearly state that. You may also want to include registry information.

Four to Six Weeks Before the Shower

Send invitations.
Decide on decorations and centerpieces. One idea: Fill Champagne glasses with jelly beans in complementary flavors (coconut and pineapple, lemon and lime)—edible proof that two together can be better than each alone.
Plan a menu, if necessary. For a light lunch, try sweet pea soup, tea sandwiches, and lemon squares.
Related: Sweet Pea and Mint Soup
Prepare an activity. You could assemble a "bow hat," yes, but think about other options. Consider hiring a fortune-teller or a tarot card reader, or even giving everyone temporary tattoos.
Related: 5 Bridal Shower Games

The Week Before the Shower

Buy a gift. A good rule of thumb: Spend no less than $30 and no more than $50.

The Week of the Shower

The Day of the Shower

Make a gift-opening area. Under the guest of honor's seat, place scissors, large trash bags, a notebook and a pen to record gifts and their givers, and sticky labels to help keep similar gifts (like platters or glassware) straight.

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