Friendship

How to Throw the Perfect Bridal Shower

Posted on September 10, 2012 - 11:59:00 by

My bridal shower took place about a month ago and it was simply perfect. I'll admit - I was terrified. Even though I'm a big ham, I feel super awkward whenever a small group of people focus all of their attention on me - so I wasn't sure how I would fare in such an intimate setting. However I can honestly say that my shower was amazing in every way - it was an amazing day that I'll remember for a lifetime.

So what did I learn from my experience in all of this? Well I discovered that there are a few key ingredients to the perfect bridal shower. I'll share them here, illustrated by personal photos from my shower.

#1. You must have amazing bridal shower invitations that set the tone for your event. I was really happy with the Save The Date cards that I ordered from Wedding Paper Divas, so my Maid of Honor and I ordered these blush-colored chandelier invites from there as well.

#2. Be well-coiffed. Aside from the wedding photos - these photos will stick around for a really long time - so make sure your hair looks good. The last thing you need is to stress over your hair on the morning of your shower. I had mine done at Drybar here at Fashion Island in Newport Beach. I asked for a 'Duchess Kate'. I think this is more curly than the Duchess' signature hairstyle, but it was close enough to make me happy.

#3. Wear an awesome dress. I chose to buy a white dress because I wanted to feel very 'bridal' at my bridal shower. My rehearsal dinner dress is white, too. So I like white. Sue me. :) When I saw this dress on sale at Zara back in June and it was the only one their store had received and it fit - I knew it was a sign. (PS - my Maid of Honor, and soon-to-be sister-in-law's dress is from ASOS. Also - she is 5 months pregnant - tell me that she doesn't look amazing.)

#4. Do something unique to celebrate. In our case, we drove up to Beverly Hills from Orange County and had high tea at The Peninsula Hotel. So fitting for me with my royal obsession, and with my over-the-top uber-girly ways. We invited 5 people - keeping in line with the small, intimate feel of the wedding - and had a blast. It was so fun and something I'll never forget.

#5. Include Champagne. Really, this one is a no-brainer, isn't it?

#6. There should be giggling. Lots of it.

#7. Don't take yourself too seriously. After my first glass of champagne and about 30 minutes in, I totally got over my awkwardness and my real personality was on full display. I'm almost positive that it was a good thing.