Bridal Shower Gift Ideas, Themes & Inspo

Along with an engagement and bachelorette party, a bridal shower is one of the big events in preparation for a bride’s big day -- with the full focus being on showering the bride-to-be with love, affection and well-wishes. It’s a fun and exciting occasion to celebrate the upcoming nuptials with close family and friends. With so many choices for bridal shower dresses, it can be difficult to narrow down your search. However, unlike shopping for a dress for the wedding itself, when deciding what to wear to a bridal shower there really are no rules. You don’t have to wear white and you can be as creative as you like to show off your true sense of style. Being that bridal showers commonly have a less formal vibe than the wedding, consider a casual-chic outfit. Wear a color and style you love: from a whimsical mini or skater dress – to a colorful midi or maxi. You could also consider a stylish jumpsuit or romper for a trendy alternative to a dress. If you do choose to go the mini dress route, just make sure it’s not too sexy or sultry. Instead, save that for your bachelorette party. Whatever dress you choose, remember that the bridal shower is your time to shine. So enjoy and let yourself indulge in a dress that makes you feel beautiful, vibrant and special in your own unique way.

As with the bride-to-be, a bridal shower is the perfect occasion for guests to display their creative flair in their choice of dress. For your bridal shower guest outfit, you may want to consider a midi length dress, which is an ideal option for this kind of occasion. A midi is a versatile choice that’s long enough to cover up when sitting at a table, yet short enough to offer freedom and comfort in any environment – even if you’re outside. A maxi dress is a great choice for a bridal shower that’s a bit more formal. Another excellent option is a cardigan or tailored blazer to pair with your dress. Bridal showers are often held outdoors, so it’s nice to have a layering piece in case it’s on the chilly side. The time of day can also influence your choice of dress. For example, a casual look is more appropriate for a daytime event, while a more formal dress is usually a better option for nighttime. Just keep in mind that whatever you decide, the bridal shower is a time to relax, have fun and let your sense of style shine through.

Planning a fun and memorable bridal shower is a lot like preparing for a mini-wedding with many of the same decisions to be made, including the theme, décor, invitations, food, drinks – and even a bridal shower cake to match. If you’re in the early stages of planning your bridal shower, here are some ideas for themes to inspire:

• Travel: A great theme for avid travellers or any couple going on an exotic honeymoon or having a destination wedding. Design the menu and decor according to the chosen destination.

• Elegance:While bridal showers are typically more informal, it’s okay to amp up the elegance, perhaps in advance of a black-tie wedding. Just make sure that the venue fits the theme, along with the décor and dress code.

• Tropical: If you don’t have a beach nearby, you can still channel a tropical-themed setting in your own backyard. Think about a pink-and-green palette, palm leaves, steel drum or Hawaiian music, and a delicious tropical menu: from Jamaican jerk chicken to tilapia tacos, key lime pie and tropical Jell-O shots.

• Boho: Boho continues to be a hot trend with no end in sight. Set your shower in your backyard to get the full earthy experience with a fun mix of color, candles, cushions, feathers, vintage rugs and dream catchers. The Boho theme is perfect for an outdoor party on a beautiful summer night.

• Garden Party: A popular theme, a garden party is as classy and elegant as you like. Be sure to make it bright and airy with lots of greenery and flowers, perhaps with a menu featuring fresh salads and garden specialties.

• Afternoon Tea: What girl doesn’t love a tea party? A tea party offers lots of fun with décor and food fit for a princess – or it can be as whimsical as you like. Alice in Wonderland anyone?

When it comes to wedding gifts and wedding shower gifts, it’s appropriate to choose a gift that will be enjoyed by both spouses-to-be. However, with a bridal shower, the bride is the star and gifts are typically chosen specifically for her - although it’s also more than okay to shop from the couple’s main registry. With that in mind, a more personalized gift for a bridal shower is always the best idea. As a close friend or family member invited to the shower, you likely have an idea of the bride’s personal style, taste and unique interests. As a result, picking out a personalized gift might not be too challenging. On the other hand, if you still don’t have a clue about what she might like - or you’re afraid of giving her a duplicate of something she already has - it’s time to get creative and shop for a one-of-a-kind gift for a one-of-a-kind bride. Personalized bridal shower gifts could include anything that’s monogrammed, from a clothing item to a throw rug, cutting board, wine decanter, jewelry box, silk slip pillow covers and so much more. Another welcomed gift idea is something the bride will use or wear on her honeymoon, such as beach hats, totes, leather luggage tags, and slippers. And then there’s always a sleek and sexy nightgown for her to wear on her honeymoon!