Bridal Shower FAQs
What is a bridal shower?
A bridal shower is a pre-wedding celebration honoring the bride-to-be. It’s traditionally focused on gathering friends and family to celebrate the upcoming marriage and “shower” the bride with gifts, advice, and support. Bridal showers can range from casual daytime gatherings to elevated, themed events depending on the bride’s style and preferences.
When should you have a bridal shower?
Bridal showers are typically held two to three months before the wedding. This timing avoids conflicts with bachelorette parties, final fittings, and wedding-week events while still allowing guests to attend comfortably. Hosting too close to the wedding can feel rushed, while hosting too early may overlap with engagement celebrations.
Who usually hosts a bridal shower?
Traditionally, a close friend or family member hosts the bridal shower rather than the bride herself. Today, it’s common for bridesmaids, sisters, mothers, aunts, or friends to co-host and share planning responsibilities. Multiple hosts often make larger or more styled showers more manageable.
Who pays for a bridal shower?
The host or hosts typically pay for the bridal shower. In modern planning, costs are often split among co-hosts. Some hosts divide expenses by category, such as one person covering food while another handles décor, to keep planning organized and fair.
How much should you budget for a bridal shower?
Most bridal showers cost between $200 and $800, depending on guest count, food choices, venue, and décor. Smaller home-hosted showers often fall on the lower end, while restaurant-hosted or heavily styled events can exceed $1,200 or more.
Check out our Bridal Shower Budget Guide for more details.
What is a reasonable bridal shower budget per person?
A reasonable bridal shower budget is typically $15–$30 per guest. This range usually covers food, drinks, tableware, decorations, and basic activities while still creating a polished and enjoyable experience.
Is it okay to have a low-budget bridal shower?
Yes. A low-budget bridal shower can be just as meaningful as a higher-budget event. Guests value thoughtful planning, a welcoming atmosphere, and celebrating the bride more than elaborate details. Hosting at home, serving light food, and choosing a simple theme can keep costs low without sacrificing style.
How many guests should you invite to a bridal shower?
Most bridal showers include 15–30 guests, but there is no required number. The guest list should be based on the bride’s closest circle, the available space, and the overall budget. Intimate gatherings are increasingly popular and often feel more personal.
What are common bridal shower activities?
Common bridal shower activities include light games, advice or date-night cards, recipe cards, gift opening, and casual mingling. Games are optional and should match the tone of the event. Many modern bridal showers focus more on conversation, food, and atmosphere rather than structured activities.
Are bridal shower favors required?
No. Bridal shower favors are optional. Many hosts choose to skip favors and instead invest in better food, drinks, or décor. If favors are included, they’re typically small, thoughtful items such as candles, sweets, or handwritten thank-you notes.
What should you serve at a bridal shower?
Bridal showers typically feature brunch items, desserts, finger foods, and beverages. Popular options include pastries, charcuterie, fruit, tea sandwiches, and signature drinks. A full meal is optional and usually reserved for longer or more formal events.
What should the bride bring to the bridal shower?
The bride typically brings nothing other than herself. Hosts handle décor, food, and logistics. The bride may choose to bring a small thank-you gift or card for the host, but this is optional and not expected.
Should you open gifts at a bridal shower?
Opening gifts is traditional but optional. Some brides enjoy opening gifts during the shower, while others prefer to open them privately or keep gift opening brief so the focus remains on socializing and celebrating.
What is a good hostess gift for a bridal shower?
A good hostess gift is something thoughtful that shows appreciation for the time and effort involved in planning. Popular options include a handwritten note, flowers, candles, wine or champagne, gourmet treats, or a small self-care item. Thoughtfulness matters more than price.
Final Thoughts
There is no single “right way” to host a bridal shower. Whether simple or elevated, the best bridal showers feel intentional, comfortable, and centered around celebrating the bride in a way that reflects her style and relationships.
