If you’re hosting a bridal shower, we know how tough it can be. We know you want to get it right for your family and your friends – especially if you’re planning it for the bride in question. If, on the other hand, you’re the bride hosting her own bridal shower – more power to you lady! Either way, no matter who is hosting a bridal shower, we’re here to help you avoid some (very) easy mistakes to make in the run-up to the big day.
Mistakes To Avoid When Hosting A Bridal Shower
Without further ado, here’s our guide to hosting a bridal shower along with the 7 top mistakes you need to avoid in order for everything to run smoothly. Try your best to take note of the items listed here and work your way through it the best way forward for you… We hope this helps ease the pressure off a little!
1. Not Setting A Budget
If this is your first bridal shower, then it’s most likely that the expenses will be coming out of your – or the bride in question – pocket. Whether you’re the bride or the maid of honor, sit together with your partner in crime and work out the bridal shower budget – together. This includes any unforeseen costs that might arise, as you never know what might happen, right?! By budgeting together, you’ll be able to share some costs, get a better understanding of what bridal shower theme is required and if you need to, you could even co-host the day!
2. Not Planning Ahead Or Writing A List
Well, really, planning ahead is a given – and something you should do at the time of budgeting. Writing down lists is a fool-proof way not to forget important things down the line – especially when the pre-party stress kicks in! From venues to themes and guestlists to proposed dates, there are plenty of to-do lists you’ll need to make in preparation. If you need help starting off, take a look at this handy list guide from our friends at Real Simple.
3. Trying To Go Solo
There is simply no chance that you can host a bridal shower entirely on your own – and you’d be silly to try. It’s a good idea to ask for help right from the get-go to avoid any major panics further down the line. Whether you’re the bride looking for a helping hand or the maid-of-honor who may be a little stubborn in doing things entirely her way, hear us when we say: you don’t have to do this on your own. If you really want to, remember that less is more. Biting off more than you can chew is one way to ruin all of your hard work. So, try your best to accept help whenever it’s offered.
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4. Messing Up Your Guest List
It goes without saying that the entire bridal party must be included in the planning (and guest list) of your bridal shower. When it comes to finalizing the guest list, however, it’s imperative that you double-check every name with the bride so she can sign off. We really don’t want a nasty ex popping up unexpectedly, do we? Also, when asking for help, this is another opportunity to ask for additional hands in areas that you need them. Trust us, people are more than happy to help if you ask for it!
Looking for some Bridal Shower games to try out with your guests? Take a look at these
5. Going Overboard On X-Rated Content
As you choose the bridal shower decor, it’s best to keep in mind that there will most likely be older relatives present. Check out the guest list to confirm how many elders are attending and adjust accordingly. If this is the case, dial back on those peculiar-shaped straws and go for a more subtle, classy vibe at your bridal shower. It’s advised to confirm how many kids are coming with friends or family members and whether or not it might be necessary to provide additional entertainment for them.
6. Leaving Out The Fiancé
Single-sex bridal showers are a thing of the past and it’s common practice to include both guests of honor at the bridal showers – along with family and friends of all ages and genders. As many bridal showers are at night, they can be viewed in the same light as an engagement party – or simply another reason to celebrate the engaged couple. If you decide to go old-school and keep it amongst ladies, that’s also fine. Just be sure to let the other half know to make an appearance and come and say “hello” to everyone.
7. Overlooking The Party Favors
It is absolute 1000% necessary to provide party favors for all of your guests – as well as a thank-you card. The good news is that you can plan these well in advance and even have them packed and ready to go in a designated cupboard until the time comes. Customize them by placing each guest’s name on the bag, along with a bunch of mini (yes, mini!) gifts. Our favorite go-to’s include mini lotions, mini chocolate, mini booze bottles, and – where necessary – gift cards for the bride’s nearest and dearest.
Until Next Time…
Hosting a bridal shower is not easy – but it’s also a huge honor to which we know you can do incredible work. We hope this list of mistakes to avoid has helped you plan accordingly and we wish you the best of luck with your bridal shower – bride or not!
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