Bridal Shower Planning Checklist: A Complete Timeline
Bridal showers tend to feel more formal than baby showers, which means planning ahead is especially important. This checklist helps hosts avoid last-minute stress while creating a celebration that feels intentional and polished.
How do you plan a bridal shower?
To plan a bridal shower, choose a host, set a budget, confirm the guest list, select a theme, plan food and décor, send invitations, and finalize details one week before the event. Most bridal showers are planned 6–12 weeks in advance.
8–12 Weeks Before the Bridal Shower
Confirm host or co-hosts
Decide who is responsible for planning and how costs will be shared.
Set a clear budget
Bridal showers often include more elevated décor and food, so budget early to avoid overspending.
- Visit our Bridal Shower Budget Guide to help set your budget!
Choose date and venue
Coordinate with the bride to avoid conflicts with fittings, bachelorette parties, or wedding events.
Draft the guest list with the bride
This ensures etiquette is respected and no one important is overlooked.
Select a theme or aesthetic
Popular bridal shower themes often focus on color palettes, florals, or lifestyle aesthetics rather than literal themes.
6–7 Weeks Before
Send invitations
Include registry details and RSVP deadlines.
Plan food and drink style
Bridal showers commonly feature brunch menus, dessert spreads, or light lunches.
Choose décor and tableware
Coordinated tableware, linens, and signage create a polished look without rentals. Disposable tableware makes clean up a breeze! Shop Oh So Fancy's Bridal Shower Collection for high quality, trending themes.
Decide on activities
Advice cards, recipe cards, or date-night ideas are popular and low-pressure.
3–4 Weeks Before
Track RSVPs carefully
Bridal shower budgets are sensitive to guest count.
Finalize menu and catering
Confirm orders and quantities.
Order remaining décor or signage, from Oh So Fancy, of course! ;-)
This includes any custom pieces or favors.
Plan seating and flow
Ensure guests can move comfortably and socialize easily.
1–2 Weeks Before
Confirm food, drinks, and helpers
Double-check timing and assignments.
Prepare activity materials
Assemble cards, pens, and displays.
Organize décor by setup area
Label boxes by table or zone.
Day Before
Set up décor and tables
Early setup allows you to focus on the bride the next day.
Prep food and chill drinks
Reduce day-of tasks as much as possible.
Day Of
Final setup and styling
Add finishing touches just before guests arrive.
Welcome guests and celebrate the bride
If planning was thorough, hosting will feel easy.
Final Thoughts
The best bridal showers feel thoughtful, relaxed, and centered around the bride. A detailed plan allows hosts to enjoy the celebration just as much as the guests.
