Planning a bridal shower doesn’t have to be stressful — but it does help to have a clear plan. This bridal shower checklist breaks the process down into simple phases so you know what to focus on first, what can wait, and what really matters.
Use this as your go-to guide while planning, and dive into the linked resources if you want more ideas or inspiration along the way.
Your Bridal Shower Planning Checklist: Simple 6-Phase Guide
Phase 1: Before You Start Planning
Before picking decorations or games, take a few minutes to get aligned on the basics. This will make every decision after much easier.
- Confirm who is hosting (solo or group)
- Set a realistic budget range
- Decide on a rough guest count
- Clarify the bride’s preferences (traditional, modern, co-ed, low-key, themed)
A bridal shower doesn’t need to be over-the-top to be meaningful. Keeping expectations clear upfront prevents unnecessary stress later.
Need help defining these? I answer the most common questions related to these decisions in my bridal shower hosting FAQs.
Phase 2: Choose the Theme, Date & Location
Once the basics are set, it’s time to define the overall direction of the shower.
- Pick a date and time that works for the bride and key guests
- Choose a location (home, backyard, park pavilion, restaurant, or venue)
- Decide on a theme or general vibe
- Determine if the event will be indoor, outdoor, or flexible
Your theme doesn’t need to be complicated — it simply helps guide décor, food, and activities so everything feels cohesive.
Need inspiration?
Explore this year’s top trends in bridal shower themes.
Phase 3: Invitations & Guest Communication
With the direction set, you can move into inviting guests and sharing details.
- Finalize the guest list
- Choose digital or printed invitations
- Include key details: date, time, location, registry info
- Ask guests to RSVP by a clear deadline
Savvy tip: Digital invitations are budget-friendly and easier to track — especially for casual or co-ed showers.
Making your own invitations is easier than you think!
Get my step-by-step guide to DIY bridal shower invitations.
Phase 4: The Details (Decor, Favors, and Games)
This is the fun part — and also where it’s easiest to overdo it. Focus on a few intentional choices instead of trying to include everything.
Decor
- Pick a color palette
- Choose 1–2 décor focal points (table decor, backdrop, or activity station)
- Decide what you’ll DIY vs. buy
Need some inspiration?
Here are my favorite DIY bridal shower decorations that are easy enough for beginners, budget-friendly, and high impact.
Favors
Favors are completely optional, but when done simply, they can double as décor and a small thank-you for guests. Think practical, edible, or easy-to-DIY options that fit your theme without adding stress or expense.
Looking for budget-friendly ideas?
I’ve rounded up practical DIY bridal shower favor ideas your guests will love for every season.
Games & Activities
- Decide if you want traditional games, interactive stations, or none at all
- Choose games that match the crowd and setting
- Plan any supplies needed ahead of time
Easy ideas for bridal shower games:
From stress-free printables to hilarious interactive icebreakers, there’s something for everyone in my round-up of the best bridal shower games.
Phase 5: Food, Drinks & Logistics
Food doesn’t need to be elaborate — just thoughtful.
- Decide on light snacks, brunch, or a full meal
- Choose drinks (mocktails, mimosas, coffee, lemonade, etc.)
- Assign dishes if guests are contributing
- Plan table setup and serving flow
Savvy tip: Keeping food simple leaves more room in the budget for décor or experiences guests will remember.
Phase 6: Final Week Bridal Shower Checklist
As the shower approaches, focus on prep — not perfection.
- Confirm RSVPs
- Prep décor and DIYs
- Print games or signage
- Create a simple setup timeline
- Pack supplies the day before
- Plan background music or a simple playlist to set the tone during arrival, gift opening, or mingling
Need ideas?
I’ve shared an easy bridal shower playlist + name that love song game guide to help you set the mood and entertain without overthinking it.
What to skip: Last-minute theme changes or extra purchases that add stress without adding value.
Bridal Shower Planning FAQs
Traditionally, the maid of honor and bridesmaids host the bridal shower. Today, however, anyone close to the bride — including family members or close friends — can take on this role. What matters most is having a clear conversation early on so expectations, budgets, and responsibilities are aligned.
If there are multiple hosts, designating one person (often the maid of honor) to coordinate tasks can help keep planning organized and stress-free.
The bridal shower is typically paid for by the host or hosts. If budget is a concern, it’s perfectly acceptable to divide responsibilities — whether that means splitting costs, contributing DIY help, or asking guests to bring food or drinks. Open communication makes it easier to plan something meaningful without overspending. Find more info at The Knot!
Most bridal showers last around two to three hours. This allows enough time for mingling, games or activities, food, and gift opening without the event feeling rushed or overly long.
Traditionally, bridal showers were women-only events. Today, many hosts choose co-ed or couples showers that include close friends and family from both sides. The guest list should reflect what feels most comfortable and meaningful to the bride (or couple).
Bridal Shower Checklist: Digital Planner
I hope you’ve found this bridal shower planning checklist helpful! If you want help tracking your budget, guest list, and to-dos all in one place, my bridal shower planning spreadsheet combines a detailed checklist with a simple budget tracker — perfect if you want clarity without juggling multiple documents.
👉 Get the bridal shower planning spreadsheet (plus more inspiration and ideas delivered to your inbox for stress-free hosting) by subscribing below.
Happy planning!
3 thoughts on “Hosting a Bridal Shower: A Simple Planning Checklist”