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If you have been given the honor of planning a bridal shower, or if you are just looking for ideas for your own shower, plenty of preparation and an equal amount of creativity are the two most important steps you can take for an event to remember.

Planning Around a Theme

Having a theme shower, and also a theme wedding is becoming increasingly popular as it gives brides-to-be and couples a chance to truly express their personalities.

The time of year that the shower and wedding are taking place are usually the main factors that will dictate which themes would work the best. Besides the four seasons, bridal showers can also be planned around a specific holiday or event, or even a certain word such as love, happiness, and joy.

Some other ideas for bridal shower themes include:

-An English tea party-Fancy tea cups, roses, an assortment of teas, tea sandwiches, and desserts such as scones and tea cakes will make for the perfect tea party themed bridal shower.

- Garden party: An outdoor garden party centered around pretty flowers is ideal for the springtime.

- Hawaiian Luau: Include leis and Hawaiian flowers along with Hawaiian inspired food.

- Las Vegas: For a completely different twist on the usual bridal shower, have a Las Vegas themed event complete with card games, a roulette wheel and dice. Held in the early evening, this is a fun way to combine a bridal shower with a ladies night out.

- Pajama party: Have guests come in their pajamas and serve foods such as pizza, popcorn, soda, ice cream and plenty of other snacks.

- Spa party: This works best for smaller groups. Pamper everyone and treat them to an afternoon of manicures, pedicures, massages, facials, and lots of relaxation.

The Invitations and Favors

Bridal shower invitations should include the following bits of information:

- Bride’s full name - Date and time - Where the shower is being held - Who is hosting the shower - RSVP date and contact phone number - The theme, if any - Where the couple is registered - Maps and directions, if necessary

Shower favors are the perfect way for the bride-to-be to say thanks for coming and that she appreciates everyone sharing in her special time. Instead of the usual few pieces of candy wrapped in tulle and tied with color coordinated ribbon, take the time to think of something truly unique, something that will stand out, but also be useful to guests.

Bridal Shower Timeline

- Two months before: Set the budget, decide on the style or theme of the shower, set the date, choose and reserve the location, create a guest list, plan the menu, choose the games, delegate tasks to other members of the bridal party, purchase the invitations.

- One month before: Mail the invitations, order the cake, plan your menu and shopping lists, purchase the decorations, party favors and prizes.

- One week before: Order the food, chairs, linens, and tableware if necessary, purchase the bride’s gift and confirm reservations.

- One day before: Begin decorating, pick up the cake, wrap the bride’s gift and game prizes, prepare street signs if needed, and prepare any food items that can be made in advance.

- The day of the shower: Arrange the food, drinks, finish any decorating, have a tablet handy to record a list of gifts received, and finally, relax and have a good time at the shower!