BRIDAL SHOWER CHECKLIST

<b>Set a date </b>- The shower can be held anywhere from two weeks to two months before the wedding. Select a date that works best for your circumstances and, if it’s not a surprise, check with the bride. The earlier the better!

<b>Coordinate with the bride</b> - If it’s not a surprise, get the bride’s input on whom to include and specifics details such as the date, theme or style.

<b>Create a budget</b> - To avoid overspending, set a budget and coordinate with the people involved to balance out costs.

<b>Select and book venue</b> - Whether held at a home, an event space or an outdoor location, reserve a venue that best suits the bride’s personality and tastes. Consider the costs in line with your budget

<b>Decide on theme</b> - Although not necessary, a creative bridal shower theme can liven up the event. It may dictate the drinks, food and activities you choose, so don’t be afraid to have some fun with it!

<b>Create guest list </b>- Although it doesn’t have to align with the wedding invite list, be sure you invite all important figures in the bride’s life. Determine if you want it to be co-ed or just an all ladies affair.

<b>Finalize time</b> - After you choose the date, pick a time to hold the shower. Take into account that a bridal shower typically lasts 2-4 hours.

<b>Select invitations</b> - Bridal shower invitations should tie into the style or theme of the shower. Include directions, attire, registry details, how to RSVP and any other essential details.

<b>Send a save the date email </b>- If important guests are traveling from out of town, confirm there are no scheduling conflicts.

<b>Collect addresses or emails for invites</b> - Whether you plan on sending an Evite or a physical invite, make a list of all addresses you will need ahead of time.

<b>Create a planning committee</b> - If you need the extra help, get a group together and delegate tasks and roles for each person. Keep communication open to address any questions or concerns.

<b>Start planning</b> - Make a list to finalize decisions on decorations, flowers, favors, music and menu items. Be sure it ties into the theme!

<b>Place rental order</b> - If the venue doesn’t include it already, be sure to reserve tables, chairs and linens as needed.

<b>Consider hiring staff</b> - To serve drinks or food on the day of the event, be sure to book staff in advance if you go that route.

<b>Order special items</b> - Call the bakery, caterer and flower shop of choice to place orders in advance.

<b>Send out invitations</b> - Give guests about a month to save the special day on their calendar and make accommodations.

<b>Share details with the groom </b>- If the groom will be making a guest appearance at the shower, be sure to send him all the details separately.

<b>Decide on activities</b> - Staying within theme and budget, make a plan for interactive bridal shower themed games or activities. Incorporate music or even a photo booth if it fits!

<b>Order food and drinks</b> - For the catering or bartending service route, place your orders at least a month out.

<b>Check in on committee </b>- Ask the bridesmaids, friends or family members assisting on the committee to confirm their assigned items. Offer to help if they need it.

<b>Decide on a take home favor</b> - Pick a creative gift that guests can bring home. Whether it’s a succulent or wine tumbler, tie it into the theme and place the order for pick up in advance.

<b>Confirm reservations</b> - Make quick calls to all orders to confirm delivery times and details.

<b>Purchase food or drinks</b> - If you’re making food yourself, buy and begin preparations for any menu items that can be made in advance. Also, be sure to purchase spirits if you’re making cocktails.

<b>Pick up decor</b> - To avoid stressing on the day of the event, pick up decorations or flowers the week of.

<b>Assemble take home favors</b> - If your take home gifts require gift wrapping or assembly, put these together in a fun way!

<b>Create floor plan</b> - Put together a venue map to facilitate layout of equipment, tables, decorations and favors

<b>Touch base with committee </b>- Ask whoever is available if they can come early to help set up on the day of the event.

<b>Set up </b>- Setup tables, chairs, activities, food and drink displays.

<b>Decorate</b> - Whether you use banners, balloons, streamers or a fun photo booth table, be sure to set up your decorations in a way that makes sense for the venue.

<b>Designate gift opening area</b> - Have a specific area that guests can gather around the bride as she opens. Assign someone to keep a list of who gifts the bride what for thank you notes later.

<b>Have fun!</b> - The most important part of the process is to enjoy it. Remember why a bridal shower is so special in the first place–to celebrate the beautiful couple!