Planning your nuptials is a ton of work, even a virtual wedding. Aside from the actual reception and ceremony, there's the dress, the flowers, different cakes, the bridesmaids…the list is so long it's stressing us out. But, that's where your bridal partycome in. It's their job to plan events like the bachelorette party and the wedding shower.
So to help your lovely ladies of honor out, we've rounded up the ultimate list of bridal shower inspiration that will give you a colorful, fun, and memorable celebration. From movie nights to champagne tastings, here are 50 themes and ideas that brides are bound to love.
Do bridal showers have themes?
Your bridal shower doesn't necessarily have to have a theme, but in our opinion, it makes the shower a lot easier to plan. Think of a theme like a guideline for the food, colors, and dress code.
Who usually pays for the bridal shower?
Traditionally, the person hosting the bridal shower is the one who pays for it. If your maid of honor is throwing you the party, then they'll usually pay!
What are good bridal shower themes?
We love seasonal bridal shower themes to reflect the time of year that you're getting married. But you can't go wrong with any theme that makes you feel empowered and excited to tie the knot!
What is popular for bridal showers?
According to our 2023 Bridal Shower Trend Report, garden parties, colorful discos, and classic romantic hearts are all great ideas for your bridal shower!
Summery Bridal Shower Themes
Paper Tropicalia
Green doesn't suit everyone as a color palette, so mix it up using pastels and summery shades. With paper, anything is possible. (via Brit + Co)
Pantone's Color of the Year
Greenery provides the perfect excuse to eat all kinds of healthy snacks. Which color will they announce this year? A sassy red? A bright yellow? (via Brit + Co)
Retro Summer Brunch
There's a reason you've been collecting all that kitschy cute dinnerware. Put it to good use for your trendiest friends. (via Sugar & Cloth)
Beyonce's Lemonade
Queen Bey + a refreshing summery bevie = party planning perfection. PLUS your soundtrack is already decided. (via Bespoke Bride)
Vintage Pool Party
We are obsessed with this '60s-inspired tiki party. Decorate with bold and bright colors, wear your one-pieceand have the best pool party everrrr. (via Sarah Layne Photography / 100 Layer Cake)
Pool Float Party
Get an AirBnB with a pool, and call upon your reserve of giant pool floats. The gang can spend the afternoon reclining in style. (via Studio DIY)
Daisies
These cheery little blooms are hopeful, feminine, and won't clash with anyone's outfit (hopefully). Plus, you can DIY everything you need, so you can use your existing party essentials. (via Aww Sam)
Lilly Pulitzer
Finally, an opportunity to use every single color of tableware you have. Pink cutlery? Do it. Funky florals? You better be using those. Oh, and don't forget the bold and punchy citrus. Slowly but surely, you'll be able to pull together a playful party full of pattern-heavy shift dresses.(via Justin Demustiis Photography)
Party Bridal Shower Themes
Slumber Party
No boys allowed. Need we say more? Iredescent unicorn streamers, PJs and balloons for all! (via Studio DIY)
Roller Disco
Gather the squad for some roller derby action and bust out the jams and disco balls. Bonus points for jumpsuits, big hair, and way too much eyeshadow. Boogie night references are welcome. (via Danielle DiBenedetto/Inspired by This)
Food-Related Bridal Shower Themes
Dessert Bar
Not digging a theme? Cool. Just put out a bunch of desserts, and suggest everyone do their photos before cake stains are a problem. (via Brit + Co)
Ice cream Social
Dust off your finest ice cream scoop, and start looking for the best waffle cones. A retro vibe is lots of fun, but you could update it to suit your needs. (via Bespoke Bride)
Waffle Brunch
Sure, it may not be February 13th, but what better excuse to celebrate the women (and waffles!) in your life than your bridal shower. (via A Kailo Chic Life)
Image via Cooker King/Unsplash
Julia Child-Inspired
Another centerpiece to capture the bride's love of cooking or baking is a huge Dutch oven pot — especially if it's filled with flowers. If you're a fan of the amazing Julia Child (who isn't?) you'll love throwing this chef-centric shower. Have your guests fill out recipe cards to add to the soon-to-be-bride's collection. (via Injoy Imagery / Wedding Chicks)
Afternoon Tea
Take a break from reality with an afternoon tea party that's fit for the cast of The Crown. Tea sandwiches, teacups, teapots, oh my! (via Brit + Co)
Movie Night Bridal Shower Theme
Film Noir
Some of the greatest love stories ever told happened on the silver screen, so this just honors those romances. (via Brit + Co)
Movie Night In
Not everyone has a yard, or a projector, but almost everyone has a TV. What's more? It's a budget friendly way to catch the latest releases, or the squad's faves. (via Brit + Co)
Outdoor Movie Night
You probably haven't done this since you were a kid, but a movie night outside is the epitome of summer fun. Don't forget to rig a wicked sound system, otherwise you'll all be crowded around your laptop speakers. (via Becca Bond Photography /Hostess With The Mostess)
Music-Based Bridal Shower Themes
Image via Alejandra Montenegro / PEXELS
Taylor Swift's Eras Tour
If you're a big Swiftie, throw your own backyard Eras Tour in honor of your "Lover." Pastels, glitter, hearts, and an amazing playlist are sure to make this shower one to remember! (via Brit + Co)
Coachella
Tickets are legit expensive, and getting time off work to go is tricky. BUT, you can recreate the Indio Desert in your backyard, complete with rich textiles, a wicked playlist, and a whole lot of tassel fringe. (via Kara's Party Ideas)
The Right Note
Does the Bride to Be love to rock-out? Is her beau a musician? The answer is clear: music themed everything. (via Aww Sam)
Pop Culture Bridal Shower Themes
Game Of Thrones
If it's not securing land, power, or a military alliance — is it even a marriage? (via Brit + Co)
Because your BFF Belle, finally found her Prince aka the Beast. (via Brit + Co)
Bring a lush and decadent tablescape to life in honor of your best boo. (via Brit + Co)
Breakfast At Tiffany's
Whether your bridal shower idea consists of a themed brunch or you host your closest friends for a sleepover, you can't go wrong with an Audrey Hepburn party formed around these iconic eye masks. (via PMQ For Two)
The Bachelor
There could not be a more perfect event theme for a bachelorette. Love brought you all together, everyone is there for the right reasons, except in this case you already know who's getting the rose. (via Brit + Co)
Martini Masquerade
This one could easily take a 50 Shades vibe if you wanted. But you can keep it sexy and simple with masks and lavender bubbly. (via A Bubbly Life)
Rooted In Love
So the theme may sound a little cheesy, but this theme is definitely one of our favorites. Go all out with the roots idea by serving your apps in mini planters, using potted plants as decor and garnishing your drinks with fresh herbs. How adorbs are those carrots and hummus pots?! (via Hostess With the Mostess)
Plant Mama Bridal Shower Themes
Prickly Cactus
No need to go over the top with the theme. Cactuses and succulents are trendy, simple, and allow you to pull from your extensive collection, and even add to it! (via Sugar & Cloth)
Sustainable & Earthy
How much can you borrow or upcycle for this bash? Impress the eco friendly bride with your environmentally conscious choices. (via Kayla Tiffany Photography / Inspired By This)
Winter Bridal Shower Themes
Winter Dinner
Couples taking advantage of the colder months for a destination wedding, still deserve all the fanfare of the fun summer months. With enough blankets and pillows, any party can be cozy and chic. (via Paper & Stitch)
Glam Après Ski Bar
For the winter nuptials, consider a glam chalet look. For the record, no one has to have actually gone skying, for this to work. (via PMQ for two)
Winter Wonderland
If your bride is a snow bunny, throw her a sparkly winter party. Snowflakes make gorgeous toppers, by the way. (via Hostess With the Mostess)
Galentine's Bridal Shower Themes
Galentine's Brunch
Who says you have to wait until February to celebrate a love-filled brunch with girlfriends? Craft some love letters for a day to celebrate you and your boo. (Brit + Co)
Glitter
If you want your party to sparkle, add small glittery details like gold dipped balloons or gold rimmed champagne glasses. A little glitter goes a long way! (via Studio DIY)
Image via JÉSHOOTS/Pexels
DIY Mimosa Bar
If you're throwing any type of brunch party, a mimosa bar is seriously crucial. We're also loving the color dipped vases hanging in the background. (via Katie Pritchard Photo / Green Wedding Shoes)
Champagne Tasting
Your best buds will love getting their drink on at your champagne tasting shower. Once you've all had a few glasses, let loose with some party games. (via Katie Parra / Style Me Pretty)
Burlesque
While this could definitely be a bachelorette party theme, we love the idea of getting more of the guest list to join in on the fun. Pass out feather boas, play swanky tunes and put on your sky-high heels. (via The Why We Love / 100 Layer Cake)
Western Bridal Shower Themes
Country Western
You know what they say, you can take the girl out of the country but can't take the country out of the girl! Have your guests rocks cowboy boots, drink some sweet tea and have a good ol' fashion hoedown. (via Paper Antler / Style Me Pretty)
Whiskey Tasting
Who says it always has to be a champagne affair? This theme's perfect for the girl that loves a hearty sipper. (via Style Me Pretty)
More Bridal Shower Ideas to Consider
Spa Night In
Grab some matching bathrobes on Etsy and DIY some spa treatments. This is how you relax and pamper yourselves for cheap. (via Brit + Co)
Watercolors
Sometimes a soft and pretty theme is just what the doctor ordered. You could throw a watercolor painting party, passing out paper and palettes to all of your guests. Or, you could take it less literally and decorate based on soft, washed-out hues. (via Annabella Charles Photography / Style Me Pretty)
Image via Omar Lopez/Unsplash
More Color, Please!
More is more, and less is a bore. Create a visual feast for the eyes with your choice of decor and accents, and nothing will steal the spotlight from the bride. Add different shades and tones of the same color for an ombré effect, or try bright versions of all your favorite colors. (via Sugar & Cloth)
Chanel
Celebrate in utter luxury, with quilted this, and scented that. With a bigger budget, having everyone create a custom perfume is as classy as it gets. (via Justine Milton Photography / Inspired By This)
Moroccan Oasis
Instead of placing floral arrangements in vases, hang them among balloon lights and air plant terrariums for some unexpected drama. (via Isabel Lawrence Photographers / Style Me Pretty)
Image via Heather Barnes/Unsplash
Whimsical Circus
Bright neon colors work with gold, circus accents for a super whimsical theme. Try your hand at streamer backdrops, vibrant rock candy, colorful icing. (via Canary Grey / Green Wedding Shoes)
Image via Ioana Cristiana/Unsplash
Neons
We love the bright edge of a neon sign, especially when it features a romantic message. Want to make even more of an impact? Pair it with neutrals. (Image via Ioana Cristiana/Unsplash)
Invitations
Coral
These coral-colored wedding invites set the scene for an elegant soiree in a fresh hue. (via Minted)
Botanical Cheers Foil-Pressed Wedding Invitations
Celebrate your upcoming wedding with these foil-pressed wedding invitations. They're the perfect precursor to your Galentine's Brunch bridal shower theme! (via Minted)
Follow us on Pinterest or more bridal shower inspo!
This post was updated in partnership with Minted. Shop Minted for more bridal gifts and invitations.
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Rachel Sumner
Rachel is a Contributing Editor at Brit + Co and the founding editor of lifestyle blog,SADIERAE + CO. While her background is in fashion and styling, she also loves all things creative, cooking, traveling, binge-watching TV shows and giving piggy back rides to her golden retriever, Louie.
Insights, advice, suggestions, feedback and comments from experts
Introduction
As an expert in wedding planning and bridal showers, I can provide you with comprehensive information and ideas to make your bridal shower a memorable event. I have extensive knowledge of various bridal shower themes, traditions, and trends. Let's dive into the concepts mentioned in the article and explore them further.
Bridal Shower Themes
Bridal showers can be enhanced with creative themes that reflect the bride's personality and preferences. The article mentions several popular themes, including seasonal themes, party themes, food-related themes, movie night themes, music-based themes, pop culture themes, western themes, and more. Let's explore some of these themes in detail.
Seasonal Bridal Shower Themes
- Paper Tropicalia: This theme incorporates pastels and summery shades, using paper as a versatile medium for decorations and invitations [[1]].
- Pantone's Color of the Year: This theme revolves around the color of the year announced by Pantone, providing a vibrant and trendy atmosphere for the bridal shower [[2]].
- Retro Summer Brunch: This theme embraces a nostalgic '60s-inspired vibe, featuring kitschy cute dinnerware and trendy elements [[3]].
- Beyonce's Lemonade: Inspired by Beyonce's album, this theme combines refreshing summer beverages with a lively atmosphere [[4]].
- Vintage Pool Party: This '60s-inspired tiki party incorporates bold and bright colors, one-piece swimsuits, and a fun poolside ambiance [[5]].
Party Bridal Shower Themes
- Slumber Party: A fun and nostalgic theme where no boys are allowed, featuring iridescent unicorn streamers, pajamas, and balloons [[6]].
- Roller Disco: This theme brings back the disco era with roller derby action, disco balls, and jumpsuits for a groovy celebration [[7]].
Food-Related Bridal Shower Themes
- Dessert Bar: A theme that focuses on a variety of desserts, allowing guests to indulge in sweet treats [[8]].
- Ice Cream Social: This retro-themed bridal shower centers around ice cream, with a focus on waffle cones and a fun, nostalgic atmosphere [[9]].
- Waffle Brunch: A brunch-themed bridal shower that celebrates the love for waffles, creating a cozy and delicious gathering [[10]].
- Julia Child-Inspired: This theme pays homage to the famous chef Julia Child, incorporating cooking and baking elements, such as a centerpiece Dutch oven pot filled with flowers and recipe card activities [[11]].
- Afternoon Tea: A break from reality with an elegant afternoon tea party, featuring tea sandwiches, teacups, and teapots [[12]].
Movie Night Bridal Shower Theme
- Film Noir: This theme celebrates classic love stories from the silver screen, capturing the essence of romance and mystery [[13]].
- Movie Night In: A budget-friendly option that allows guests to enjoy the latest releases or their favorite movies in a cozy setting [[14]].
- Outdoor Movie Night: An outdoor movie night brings back childhood memories and adds a touch of summer fun to the bridal shower [[15]].
Music-Based Bridal Shower Themes
- Taylor Swift's Eras Tour: A theme dedicated to Taylor Swift's music, featuring pastels, glitter, hearts, and an amazing playlist [[16]].
- Coachella: Recreate the Indio Desert in your backyard with rich textiles, a vibrant playlist, and a bohemian atmosphere [[17]].
- The Right Note: This theme is perfect for music lovers, incorporating music-themed decorations and activities [[18]].
Pop Culture Bridal Shower Themes
- Game of Thrones: A theme inspired by the popular TV series, incorporating elements of power, romance, and medieval aesthetics [[19]].
- Beauty and the Beast: Celebrate the enchanting love story of Belle and the Beast with a lush and decadent tablescape [[20]].
- Breakfast at Tiffany's: An Audrey Hepburn-inspired theme featuring iconic eye masks and a chic brunch or sleepover setting [[21]].
- The Bachelor: A perfect theme for a bachelorette party, celebrating love and the journey to find the perfect match [[22]].
Western Bridal Shower Themes
- Country Western: Embrace the country spirit with cowboy boots, sweet tea, and a good old-fashioned hoedown [[23]].
- Whiskey Tasting: A theme for whiskey enthusiasts, featuring a hearty sipper and a rustic ambiance [[24]].
Other Bridal Shower Ideas
- Spa Night In: A relaxing and pampering bridal shower with DIY spa treatments and matching bathrobes [[25]].
- Watercolors: A soft and pretty theme that can be incorporated through watercolor painting activities or soft, washed-out hues in decorations [[26]].
- More Color, Please!: A vibrant and visually appealing theme that combines different shades and tones of the same color or bright versions of favorite colors [[27]].
- Chanel: A luxurious theme inspired by Chanel, featuring quilted elements, scented products, and even custom perfume creation [[28]].
- Moroccan Oasis: A theme that incorporates hanging floral arrangements, balloon lights, and air plant terrariums for a touch of drama [[29]].
- Whimsical Circus: A theme that combines bright neon colors with gold accents and circus elements for a whimsical and playful atmosphere [[30]].
- Neons: A theme that incorporates neon signs and romantic messages, creating a vibrant and modern ambiance [[31]].
Conclusion
Planning a bridal shower involves considering various themes and ideas to create a memorable and enjoyable event. From seasonal themes to party themes, food-related themes, movie night themes, music-based themes, pop culture themes, and western themes, there are endless possibilities to make the bridal shower unique and reflective of the bride's personality. Remember to choose a theme that resonates with the bride and creates a joyful atmosphere for all attendees. Happy planning!
