How to Plan a Beautiful Bridal Shower: Tips, Ideas & Inspiration

A bridal shower is a lovely way to celebrate the bride-to-be in the lead-up to the wedding. More relaxed than a hen do, it’s often a daytime event filled with laughter, heartfelt moments, and personal touches. Whether you’re planning a shower for your best friend, sister, or even helping with your own, here’s a helpful guide to planning a beautiful and memorable bridal shower in the UK.

Choose the Right Date and Guest List

Traditionally, bridal showers happen 1–3 months before the wedding. It’s best to consult with the bride early on to find a date that works for her inner circle.

Keep the guest list small—just close friends and family. Unlike a hen party, bridal showers tend to be more intimate, so think quality over quantity.

Pick a Setting That Suits the Bride

The location sets the tone. Some popular options include:

• A cosy afternoon tea at someone’s home

• A private dining room at a local restaurant

• A light-filled garden party in spring or summer

• A rented space like a village hall or boutique venue

Wherever you choose, make sure it’s comfortable and easy for everyone to get to—especially if guests are coming from different areas like Surrey, Kent, or London.

Decide on a Theme (or Not)

While themes aren’t essential, they can add a nice cohesive feel to the event. If the bride has a particular aesthetic, hobby or shared story with her guests, use that as inspiration.

A few popular ideas:

• Garden party with fresh florals

• Blush & gold or all-white palette

• Vintage tea party

• Citrus or Mediterranean-inspired brunch

• Travel or “around the world” theme

If a theme feels like too much, simply choosing a colour palette can help guide the decor and invites.

Plan a Simple Schedule

You don’t need a packed itinerary, just a loose structure helps the day flow nicely. A typical bridal shower might include:

• Welcome drinks & mingling

• A sit-down meal or grazing table

• A couple of light games or keepsake activities

• Gift opening (optional)

• A toast or short speech

Keep things light and optional, some brides love games, while others prefer a more low-key vibe.

Thoughtful Touches That Go a Long Way

Small personal details make a bridal shower feel extra special. Here are a few easy wins:

• A playlist with songs the bride loves

• A polaroid guest book or advice cards

• Custom biscuits or cupcakes

• Personalised name tags or signs

• A framed photo of the couple or a quote they love

These don’t have to be over-the-top, just meaningful.

Don’t Forget the Food & Drink

Keep the food simple, pretty, and shareable. Some easy options:

• Afternoon tea with finger sandwiches and scones

• A grazing table with cheeses, fruits, and snacks

• Light brunch dishes like quiches, croissants, and berries

• Mini desserts like cupcakes or tartlets

• A DIY mimosa or prosecco bar

Make sure you cater for any dietary needs, vegetarian, halal, or gluten-free options are always appreciated.

A Note on Gifts

Some bridal showers include a gift-opening segment, while others skip it to keep the focus more casual. If gifts are expected, make sure guests know ahead of time. Consider a theme like “something for the honeymoon” or “kitchen & home”, or keep it open-ended.

If the bride prefers no gifts, that’s fine too, just include a polite note on the invite.

Final Tips

• Start planning at least 4–6 weeks in advance

• Delegate tasks to other close friends or family members

• Create a simple schedule for the day (nothing too rigid)

• Keep the focus on celebrating the bride and giving her space to relax and enjoy

• Take lots of photos, but don’t forget to actually be present too!

Planning a bridal shower doesn’t need to be complicated. With a little preparation, some thoughtful details, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, you can create a day the bride will always remember.

Whether you're hosting in London, Surrey, Sussex, Kent, Essex, Hampshire or Berkshire, the key is to keep it personal and relaxed, just like the bride herself.