🧁 Bridal Shower Hosting 101

How to Plan a Stylish (But Totally Stress-Free) Celebration

So you’ve been asked to host the bridal shower. Whether you're the Maid of Honour, a bridesmaid, or the bride’s favorite cousin—you’ve got one mission: make it beautiful, fun, and memorable… without burning out before the big day.

Hosting a bridal shower can feel like a lot. But with the right plan, a few tricks, and (let’s be honest) some Pinterest-worthy touches, you can pull off a chic and meaningful event that the bride will love—and guests will actually enjoy.

This is your go-to guide for planning a stylish yet stress-free shower, start to finish. (Bonus: we’ve even included a free checklist to keep you on track.)

✨ 6–8 Weeks Before: The Planning Phase

The earlier you start, the smoother it goes. You don’t need every detail sorted yet—just the basics.

Decide the vibe

Ask the bride what she doesn’t want, then curate a theme based on what she does.
Some 2025-favorite shower themes:

• Garden Party: Pastels, florals, and elegant accessories

• Coastal Cowgirl: Boots, beach waves, and big bachelorette energy.

• Bows & Cherries: A little vintage, a lot of fun (think red, pink, and girly glam)

✨Check our blog about Trending Bachelorette Party Themes for 2025

Choose the date, guest list & venue

Get input from the bride and anyone else helping. Backyard? Airbnb? Cozy café? Choose what fits the vibe and the budget. Book as soon as you have decided to ensure you get the ideal party location!

Set the budget

Don’t forget to factor in food, decor, favors, games, and any accessories or gifts. Split the cost among the bridal party or family if needed.

🌿 4–6 Weeks Before: Design, Decor & Details

This is where the fun begins.

Send invitations

Digital invites via Paperless Post or email keep things easy (and editable). Bonus if they match the theme!

Plan the decor

Keep it simple and beautiful:

• Linen tablecloths or a soft runner

• Bud vases with fresh or dried flowers

• Coordinated plates/cups or rentals

• A photo-worthy backdrop with a cute banner

Pick a few key games

Skip the cheesy stuff—go for intentional and cute.
Try our Bachelorette Destination Board Game Kit or set up a “memory card” station with custom prompts. Keep it low-pressure and pretty.

🥂 2-4 Weeks Before: Final Touches

Order food & drinks

Catered brunch, DIY bagel boards, or a mimosa bar? Go for options that feel special but don’t stress you out.

Shop your accessories & party favors

OnOff has you covered for pretty little things that make a big impact. Add:

• Aurabelle Earrings  as a gift for the bride

• Elsie Claw Clip  at each guest's seat

Make a styling plan

Decide on a look for yourself and maybe even coordinate with the bride for photos. A velvet bow and gold earrings go a long way.

💅 The Week Of:

Home stretch! This is the time to gather everything and finish the final touches for the ultimate bridal shower!

Order Food and Drinks

Lock in catering or plan a DIY menu 2–3 weeks ahead.
Ideas: quiche, pastry board, mimosa bar, infused waters.
✨ Style Tip: Label drinks with cute tags or tie bows to carafes.

Finalize Timeline & Arrange Rides

Plan a simple schedule (arrival, food, games, gifts, wrap-up).
Share with the bridal party so everyone’s in sync.
Arrange carpools or rideshares for guests coming from out of town.

Gather Supplies

Round up essentials:

• Decor (banners, florals, candles)

• Tableware + serving pieces

• Printables (games, signs)

• Emergency kit (tape, charger, scissors)
  🎁 Include accessories like claw clips or mini bows as decor and favors.

📸 The Day Of: Set Up & Celebrate

You made it! Give yourself time to style the space, prep food, and light a candle before guests arrive.

Tips for a stress-free host:

• Assign one person to take photos

• Have a timeline, but keep it loose

• Put someone in charge of games so you can enjoy, too

• Don’t over-schedule—leave space for laughs and mingling

✨ Styling moment: Create a flat lay with the bride’s gift, a handwritten note, and a bow or clip for that Instagram-worthy memory shot.

🎁 FREE Takeway: Your Bridal Shower Planning Checklist

We’ve created a simple planning checklist you can download, print, and stick on your fridge or keep on your phone.

👉 Leave your email in the comment section below, and we will email you a FREE Bridal Shower Checklist (and a discount code 👀)

TL;DR — Hosting Doesn’t Have to Be Hard

You don’t need a wedding planner’s budget or a Pinterest board with 1,000 pins. Just a bit of prep, a few well-chosen details, and some thoughtfully selected accessories—and you’re on your way to a stunning, stress-free celebration the bride will never forget.