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Summer Gift Guide

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: 5 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

  • Shop for and prepare food, if necessary. 

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.

Related Content

Ultimate Wedding Planning Checklist

To plan the perfect celebration, use this comprehensive checklist, with a timeline  based on the 16-month length of the average U.S. engagement.

Did we forget anything on this checklist? What would you add?

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