How to Throw a Bridal Shower That's Seriously Glam (2024)

Just check out these tips that will teach you how to throw a bridal shower for someone whose taste is anything but average.

Jacqueline Tynes

February 10, 2017

Photo: Alexandra Friendly Photography

If you’re the maid-of-honor or a close family member, you’ll likely be tasked with planning the all-important bridal shower—which means you’ll need to know how to throw a bridal shower that suits the bride-to-be. Throwing a bridal shower gives you the opportunity to plan a sweet soirée for your friend or family member to celebrate life’s next adventure. It’s also a great excuse to go all out when it comes to glitzy decor and sweet treats! That being said, if you’re hoping to plan a party that matches the bride-to-be’s personality, we have some killer suggestions (and inspo) for you to use—especially if they love all things glam. Just check out these photos taken by Alexandra Friendly Photography of bride-to-be Mimi's Washington, D.C. shower that will teach you how to throw a bridal shower for someone whose taste is anything but average.

Here we’ve outlined how to throw a bridal shower that is totally glam.

Photo: Alexandra Friendly Photography

A fancy venue

Typically showers are thrown at the home of a loved one. However, if the your home isn’t fit for a party and you’re wondering how to throw a bridal shower, throw it elsewhere! Renting out the back room of a restaurant or holding it at a country club are great alternatives for a bridal shower venue.

Photo: Alexandra Friendly Photography

A solid guest list

The bridal party and close family members are a given for the invite list, but check in with the bride about other people to include. She may want to invite other friends or family members, that aren’t bridesmaids, especially if she has only has a few 'maids.

Photo: Alexandra Friendly Photography

A fabulous theme

No bridal shower is complete without a cohesive theme! The sky’s the limit on fun ideas for invitations and decor, but it should align with the bride’s interests and tastes. So, if you know that she likes to go all out when it comes to dressing up and decorating, opt for a fun and unique theme. Some of our favorites include Kentucky Derby-inspired,Great Gatsby and the go-to classic, tea-party-inspired.

Photo: Alexandra Friendly Photography

A personalized Snapchat filter

We can’t think of a better way to document the bridal shower than by using a custom Snapchat filter. Snapchat filters have been taking over the wedding industry and are a fab way to get some super cute pics.

Photo: Alexandra Friendly Photography

Glitzy decorations

It’s not a party without festive decor to match your glamorous bridal shower theme. Consider including patterned plates and chargers, fresh floral arrangements, or photos of the couple. Again, make sure the decor is cohesive and matches the theme! Not very decor savvy? Just refer to this checklist that has all the essentials that every bridal shower needs.

Photo: Alexandra Friendly Photography

These place settings featuring China teacups are perfect for any glamorous bridal shower.

Photo: Alexandra Friendly Photography

A chic dress code

Since a bridal shower is typically a fancier affair, we recommend dressing up. Soft pastels, cool patterns, and flattering silhouettes are all good go-to styles. Take advantage of the feminine vibe and wear something cheerful! Also, make sure to indicate the attire on the invitation, so guests will know what to wear.

Photo: Alexandra Friendly Photography

You can even have your guests go all out and encourage them to wear hats or fascinators!

Photo: Alexandra Friendly Photography

Provide a lot of food options

Learning how to throw a bridal shower is no easy task—especially when it comes to food and menu selections. Our number-one rule is to make sure you don’t leave your guests hungry. Whether you opt for finger foods or a full meal, there’s no specific kind of food you have to stick to. If the bride loves breakfast, consider a brunch bridal shower filled with mimosas! If you know the bride’s favorite food, try to incorporate it into the menu.

Photo: Alexandra Friendly Photography

Having a sit-down luncheon is certainly formal, but allows guests to relax and chat.

Photo: Alexandra Friendly Photography

Several beverage selections

Having drink options is also necessary if you're hoping to throw an over-the-top bridal shower. From tea, to juice to even a champagne bar, providing some kind of refreshment station is a great idea.

Photo: Alexandra Friendly Photography

You can even serve a signature co*cktail for the bridal shower, too!

A variety of bridal shower games

As host, it’s your duty to entertain guests and the bride-to-be—so be sure to plan plenty of bridal shower games to play. Some of our favorites include “How Old Was The Bride-To-Be?” and the classic “Toilet Paper Wedding Dress” game. Not sure how to play? Just check out how to play these bridal shower games here.

Photo: Alexandra Friendly Photography

A delicious dessert table

Having a dessert buffet filled with sweet treats and even a cake can totally take a bridal shower to another level.

Photo: Alexandra Friendly Photography

Gifts and favors

Typically guests will purchase gifts for the bride from her registry. It’s important that the bride create her registry well before the shower so you can include where she’s registered on the invitation. In terms of favors, give out something small for guests as a thank you for coming! Anything from nail polish to sweet treats are fair game.