From classic tea party to disco-inspired.
A good theme can take any party from cute to simply unforgettable. If you're a maid of honor, bridesmaid or family member who's tasked with planning the bridal shower, we're here to help. These bridal shower themes will spark your creativity and help you figure out exactly what to do next—the hardest part is choosing just one of them. Whether you're looking for simple bridal shower theme ideas or in search of something totally unique to wow the bride (and your guests), we've got plenty of options. Check out these 37 bridal and wedding shower themes for a memorable party.
In this article:
- Unique Bridal Shower Themes
- Fun Bridal Shower Themes
- Bridal Shower Themes for Spring
- Bridal Shower Themes for Summer
- Bridal Shower Themes for Fall
- Bridal Shower Themes for Winter
Photo: B Hull Photography
Unique Bridal Shower Themes
For a one-of-a-kind bride, you need options that go beyond the ordinary bridal shower themes. Branch out with these creative and unique ideas.
1. Bookworm Bridal Shower
What better theme could you choose for someone who loves to read? Pick one of the bride's favorite reads to inspire the entire theme of the party, or use various books from their favorite genres or authors. Incorporate library inspired decor, like catalog cards, famous literary love quotes and paper flower centerpieces. Ask guests to follow the theme by bringing books as gifts for the couple or hand out "mystery books" wrapped in plain brown paper as party favors.
2. Paint and Sip Bridal Shower
Tap into your artistic side with this unique bridal shower theme that's fun for guests young and old. This lighthearted activity will help your guests break the ice and make small talk—and you might even find out that you have an artist in your crew. You can either host the party at a professional painting studio or at someone's home (just keep in mind that you'll need to provide all of the supplies on your own if that's the case). Serve refreshments and light snacks with a playlist queued up to spark everyone's creativity.
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3. PowerPoint Party Bridal Shower
These aren't your average PowerPoint presentations. A few weeks before the event, ask each guest to prepare a short slideshow (under three minutes) about any topic their hearts desire—the more creative, the better. (Some guests may want to pair up in teams if they already know each other.) You can share guidance for wedding-related topics, like best celebrity weddings or most memorable movie wedding dresses, or leave guests to their own imaginations. At the party, guests take turns presenting their slides to the crowd. At the end of the day, everyone will have learned something new—or at least had a good laugh.
4. Astrology Bridal Shower
If the bride religiously checks her horoscope and swears by analyzing people's birth charts, she'll be delighted by an astrology-themed bridal shower. Deck out the party space in zodiac-themed decor and hire a professional astrologer to do readings or predictions.
5. Charity Bridal Shower
For the to-be-weds who don't see the need for traditional shower gifts (like cookware and bath linens), why not use the wedding shower as an opportunity to pay it forward? This unique bridal shower theme could also work for anyone who'd rather not be the center of attention at a gift-giving extravaganza. In lieu of bringing registry gifts to the bridal shower, ask guests to donate to the couple's charity registry or favorite non-profit organization.
6. Spa Day Bridal Shower
Everyone can always use an excuse for some R&R—especially those who are in the midst of planning a wedding. Treat the bride-to-be to a day of pampering and downtime with a spa-themed bridal shower. If your guest list is fairly small, consider renting a private room at a spa for the day and splurging on facials or massages. Otherwise, you can recreate a spa vibe in your own home with soothing candles, music and ambient lighting. Provide cozy robes, refreshments and pampering products, like nail polish and aromatherapy lotion.
Photo: Kelly Giarrocco Photography,Event planning: Clover Event Co.
Fun Bridal Shower Themes
Your guests are here for a good time, not a long time. Pack as much fun as you can into a few hours with these theme ideas.
7. Cooking-Themed Bridal Shower
Cooking classes are a fun way to spend time with your inner circle—plus, they'll help you pick up a few new skills. If the bride loves experimenting in the kitchen, treat her to an afternoon of cooking lessons. Hire a chef to lead your group, then host a friendly cook-off to see who can make the best dish. Regardless of who wins, everyone will get to indulge in a delicious meal at the end. Ask guests to bring their favorite recipe or kitchen item (based on the couple's registry) as a gift.
8. Lingerie Bridal Shower
If you're ready to get a little risqué with your group, a lingerie bridal shower is a fun option. For this bridal shower theme, guests bring lingerie, robes and other sultry accessories instead of traditional gifts. The most important thing is to clear this theme with the bride before you start planning—you don't want her or any of the guests (ahem, mom and grandma) to feel uncomfortable with the concept.
9. Disco Bridal Shower
Throw a disco-themed bridal shower if the bride loves music, dancing and glitter. For this theme (which also happens to be a popular bachelorette party theme), you'll need disco balls, metallic fringe curtains, holographic balloons and a playlist filled with music from disco legends, like ABBA, Donna Summer and the Bee Gees.
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10. Gatsby Theme Bridal Shower
Let Jay Gatsby be your inspiration for this fun bridal shower theme. Host a 1920s party with the help of feather plume centerpieces, sequined tablecloths, faux pearl strands and sparkling crystal tableware. Ask guests to wear their best flapper-inspired looks—and don't forget the champagne.
11. Taylor Swift Bridal Shower Theme
This is a must for a die-hard Swiftie. To set the scene, invite your guests to come dressed in an outfit inspired by their favorite TSwift era (think: a sundress and cowboy boots for Fearless, an all-black ensemble for Reputation or a boho dress for Folklore). Transform the venue with bridal shower decorations and vignettes inspired by each album, and don't forget the playlist full of her best hits (Taylor's Version) to sing throughout the party.
12. Taco Bridal Shower
If your crew never misses a Taco Tuesday, this fun bridal shower theme is an obvious choice. Put your mixology skills to the test by creating a variety of margarita flavors to accompany tacos, nachos, quesadillas and churros.
13. Stock-the-Bar Bridal Shower
A stock-the-bar bridal shower is perfect if the to-be-weds are co*cktail connoisseurs with a wedding registry full of cool barware. This unique idea is a little different from a typical wedding shower because guests are invited to bring an alcohol-centric item from the couple's registry or a bottle of alcohol to help them stock the bar in their newlywed home. If you're in search of a good coed wedding shower idea, this is it. What better way for their closest friends to meet, mingle and celebrate the happy duo?
Photo: Nicole Gatto Photography
Bridal Shower Themes for Spring
Get inspired by the season's flowers and wildlife with these sophisticated themes for your bridal shower.
14. Rainy Day Bridal Shower
As the saying goes: April showers bring May flowers. This bridal shower theme for spring is a cute way to celebrate indoors if you live in an area that's prone to rainy weather. Decorate by hanging umbrellas or parasols from the ceiling, display fresh flowers in rain boots and add decorative watering cans to your centerpieces.
15. Bridgerton Bridal Shower
If the bride-to-be can't get enough of Bridgerton, put a twist on the traditional tea party wedding shower with a Regency-era makeover. Consult a local florist for lush floral arrangements, greenery garlands and dainty topiaries. Create lavish tablescapes with formal china, floral tablecloths and place cards inspired by society papers. As for the menu, serve fancy finger sandwiches, pastel cupcakes and a variety of tea flavors to take guests back in time to England circa 1811.
16. Butterfly Bridal Shower
Butterflies are a definitive sign of spring, but they're also a metaphor for change and transformation. We can't think of a better way to celebrate the to-be-weds' new chapter than with a butterfly-themed bridal shower. Send invitations adorned with butterfly motifs and use faux butterflies to decorate the tablescapes and walls at the party.
17. Picnic Bridal Shower
Enjoy the spring weather with a picnic bridal shower. This theme is one of the latest bridal shower trends that we're loving, because it's all about creating a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. Arrange blankets, throw pillows and floor cushions in the backyard (or a park venue) and serve springtime finger foods, like arugula and prosciutto bites, garden salads and macarons.
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18. Flower Power Bridal Shower
Throw it back to the '60s and '70s with this retro bridal shower theme. Decorate with an earthy color palette of mustard yellow, terracotta and coral, then add oversized flower motifs, peace symbols and rainbows for a groovy vibe. Complete the mood with a playlist of tunes by The Beatles, Fleetwood Mac, Jefferson Airplane and The Mamas & The Papas.
19. Breakfast at Tiffany's Bridal Shower
Upgrade the traditional mimosa brunch shower idea with an Audrey Hepburn-approved twist. Decorate your space with Tiffany blue decorations and New York City-inspired accents. Serve croissants, coffee and bubbly beverages to channel Holly Golightly's iconic ritual of having breakfast in front of Tiffany's. Invite guests to come dressed in black mini dresses and supply strands of pearls to emulate the classic film.
Photo: Madeleine Collins Photography,,Floral design: Sweet Root Village
Bridal Shower Themes for Summer
Perfect for celebrating outdoors (or livening up the event space so you can keep cool with the AC), these summer bridal shower themes are cute and creative.
20. Rosé All Day Bridal Shower
On a sunny summer afternoon, there's nothing better than sitting outside and sipping a cold glass of rosé. Channel that positive energy with a rosé bridal shower theme for your guest of honor. Pink decorations, beverages and rose centerpieces are all musts, and you can also instruct guests to come dressed in their cutest pink attire. Sunglasses and rosé-infused gummy bears are sweet bridal shower favors for this theme.
21. Ice Cream Bridal Shower
Use this classic summer treat as the inspiration for your bridal shower theme. Set up a DIY ice cream toppings station, decorate with ice cream-inspired decor and serve ice cream drinks, like milkshakes or root beer floats.
22. Tropical Bridal Shower
Whisk the bride away to a dreamy destination by planning a tropical-themed bridal shower. Serve piña coladas and daiquiris along with food from a local Caribbean or Jamaican catering company. Decorate with brightly colored flowers and beach-themed accents, such as rattan furniture, pineapples, flamingos and tropical greenery.
23. Emily in Paris Bridal Shower
Looking for a fresh take on the Parisian-themed wedding shower? Plan a soirée inspired by Emily in Paris. Create a menu inspired by the finest French foods (read: cheese, wine, croissants and plenty of baguettes). To customize this cute bridal shower theme, replace "Emily" with the bride-to-be's name. Decorate with French flags, Eiffel Tower decals and a poster of the Mona Lisa—and don't forget to make a playlist of French café jazz music for the right ambiance.
24. Cottagecore Bridal Shower
Bring this whimsical aesthetic to your bridal shower with a pastel color palette, dainty gingham prints, straw hats and plenty of wildflowers to decorate the party space. For the menu, serve comfort foods, like homemade pies, bread and other baked goods alongside pitchers of lavender-infused lemonade or sun tea. Take the party outside and sit on an assortment of vintage thrifted linens while you open gifts or play games.
25. Coachella Bridal Shower
Transport your crew to Indio, California with a Coachella-inspired bridal shower. Perfect for music-loving brides, this unique bridal shower idea is a fresh take on the boho theme. Create a playlist lineup of the bride's favorite songs and use Coachella's iconic font on the invitations and the party signage. Don't forget to offer guests flower crowns and summery accessories to pretend you're soaking up the West Coast sun.
26. Lemon Theme Bridal Shower
This bridal shower theme for summer is an excuse to decorate your space with bright colors and fun details inspired by Italy's Amalfi Coast. Serve a signature drink garnished with freshly sliced lemons, and design the bar to look like a lemonade stand for a nostalgic touch. Use real lemons in your centerpieces and complete the look with striped tablecloths, mismatched patterned plates and bottles of limoncello as favors.
27. Clambake Bridal Shower
Embrace classic New England charm with a nautical bridal shower theme. Offer guests a feast of fresh lobster, crab legs, mussels and shrimp to pretend you're celebrating on Nantucket. Decorate with a navy blue and white color palette for a true coastal grandmother vibe.
Photo: Mint Photography
Bridal Shower Themes for Fall
Plan your fall bridal shower with these themes inspired by the great outdoors and cozy autumn vibes.
28. Spooky Bridal Shower
If the bridal shower will take place in October, make the most of #spookyszn by throwing a party inspired by all things Halloween. This is the perfect theme for any bride who loves scary movies and a gothic aesthetic, since you can decorate with a moody color palette, faux cobwebs, skeletons and more.
29. Farmers Market Bridal Shower
From delicious veggies to beautiful flowers, the autumn season brings a plentiful harvest. We love this fall bridal shower theme idea for the bride who's always visiting her local farmers market to check out the latest goodies and fresh produce. You can create different "stalls" throughout the party space to recreate the look of a real farmers market, with each stall offering various desserts, games, favors and other treats.
30. Western Bridal Shower
Cue the country music and cowboy boots. This bridal shower theme is a fitting choice if the couple is having a rustic wedding. Serve BBQ, corn on the cob, sweet tea and cold beer to go along with Western decor like hay bales, red checkered tablecloths and cacti centerpieces.
31. Wine-Themed Bridal Shower
Bring Napa Valley to you with a day of wine tastings. DIY the party by visiting your local winery (or the nearest specialty wine store) to get a variety of blends to sip while celebrating the soon-to-be newlyweds. Or if your guest list is down to travel, consider booking a private vineyard tour for the day. Give guests personalized wine glasses as party favors.
32. Glamping Bridal Shower
If the bride would rather spend a day checking out a local hiking trail than sipping champagne, organize a glam camping (or glamping) excursion for everyone. Kick off with a small party at someone's house to open gifts and celebrate with anyone who's unable to participate in a physical activity, such as older relatives. Then head out for a fun, outdoorsy activity like a hike or bike ride. Conclude with a campfire to roast marshmallows and refuel.
Photo: Jen Fariello Photography
Bridal Shower Themes for Winter
Whether you're looking for holiday-inspired themes or classic winter bridal shower ideas, we've got options for both.
33. Pajama Party Bridal Shower
Looking for a unique take on the brunch bridal shower theme? Invite guests to come dressed in their favorite pair of PJs and give them customized robes or slippers as party favors. Plan a menu inspired by the bride's favorite breakfast foods, like waffles, pancakes, French toast and mimosas.
34. Après Ski Bridal Shower
Turn your party into a wintry ski chalet for this bridal shower theme. It's a great way to pay homage to the couple's personalities if they love to go skiing together. Create a menu of hot drinks (buttered rum, spiked hot chocolate, Irish coffee) and hearty soups to keep everyone cozy. For a good laugh, ask guests to dress up in retro skiing attire à la the 1970s and '80s.
35. Galentine's Day Bridal Shower
This winter bridal shower theme is a cute idea if the party is planned for February. Start with a Valentine's Day-inspired color palette of pink, red and purple, then add heart-shaped decorations, cupid decals and whimsical balloons. Send guests home with handmade chocolate party favors and other sweet treats.
36. Starry Night Bridal Shower
Celebrate the couple whose fate was written in the stars with a celestial-themed bridal shower. Use twinkling string lights, shimmering table accents, constellation posters and star-shaped decor to create a magical, ethereal setting inspired by the cosmos.
37. Winter Wonderland Bridal Shower
Perfect for a party taking place around the holiday season, this winter bridal shower theme is fairly easy to pull off. Choose a red and green color palette if the bride loves celebrating Christmas, or keep the theme more generic with a combination of winter whites and neutrals. Incorporate details like faux fur throws, vanilla-scented candles, birchwood accents and fake snow to transform the space.
