Tips for Hosting a Backyard Bridal Shower
There’s something special about hosting a bridal shower in your own backyard. The sunshine and happy moods only add to the excitement of the wedding to come. From the entrance to the wine list, check out our tips for hosting a backyard bridal shower and show your loved one a good time before they walk down the aisle.
Choose a Theme
Talk with the bride-to-be and get a feel for how they’d like the shower to feel. You don’t want to host a beach party theme if they’re thinking more on the lines of, a day in Paris. However, a strict theme isn’t the only route to take. You can also just choose a color scheme.
Make an Entrance
Set the mood from the get-go with the entrance. Whatever the theme or color plan, make it clear to guests when they show up. Don’t underestimate the mood that the entrance creates. Are you going with sophisticated and classy, or is it wild party time? Your entrance lets your guests know.
Take a Seat
Standing and mingling is best, but guests need a place to sit when their feet get tired. Bring any chairs from in the house outside if you can. Borrow lawn chairs from neighbors and friends or rent some extra chairs from a party rental center. Rather than a large, awkward circle, scatter chairs around so guests feel comfortable moving them if necessary.
Chill Some Drinks
Every crowd is different, but usually, a mix of alcohol and non-alcoholic beverages works well. A glass dispenser set up with lemonade is pretty and refreshing, or sodas in a cooler also work well.
For the party crowd, chilled white wine in ice buckets, surrounded by pretty white wine glasses adds to the décor and gives your guests easy access. Nothing says summer like cool, white wine, plus it pairs well with light hors d’oeuvres. Fill an ice bucket with frozen fruit and set it near the white wine for a pretty way to keep the wine cold while drinking.
Feed the Masses
Hungry guests won’t have a good time. Keep tummies full and conversation plenty with some fun food ideas. Here’s a few to consider:
- Hors d’oeuvres
- Food truck
- Potluck style
- Pizza delivery
- Catering
The possibilities are endless, and you’ll want to cater to the bride’s taste. Keep it simple when the party is outside. Be sure to have a table set up for food along with any needed plates and utensils. Keep in mind that finger foods are great for mingling!
Decorate
This is truly the fun part! Decorating sets the mood just like the entrance does, so keep that in mind. Of course, decorate according to the theme or color scheme, and don’t be afraid to go overboard. Flowers, ribbon, and items that match a theme all work great. Make use of your porch, deck, and trees. When hosting a bridal shower in the evening, pretty string lights around the yard create a casual yet lovely atmosphere.
Summer is already fun and throwing a great shower on top of it makes it even better. Follow our tips for hosting a backyard bridal shower, invite your closest friends (along with the bride), and get ready for a beautiful day of making memories!