How To Plan A Wedding Shower For Couples In 2025
If you are looking for tips on how to plan a wedding shower, you are in the right place!
Planning a couple’s wedding shower doesn’t have to be stressful. With this simple guide, you’ll have everything you need to organize a fun and memorable celebration for both partners without feeling overwhelmed.
Enjoy!
1. Start with the Basics
Planning a couple’s wedding shower begins with a few key steps to get organized. From understanding the couple’s preferences to setting a budget and picking a date, these basics will set the foundation for a successful event.
Understand the Couple’s Preferences
The first step is to figure out what the couple wants.
- Do they prefer a casual gathering or something more formal?
- Ask about their favorite themes, foods, and colors.
- If the shower is a surprise, talk to someone close to the couple for ideas.
You’ll also need to ask about the guest list:
- Are there people they absolutely want to invite?
- Would they prefer a smaller, more intimate group or a larger party?
Getting these details early will make the rest of the planning easier.
Set a Budget
Once you know what the couple has in mind, it’s time to set the budget.
- Decide who is paying for the shower. Traditionally, the host covers the cost, but today it’s common for family or friends to chip in.
- Talk to anyone helping with expenses before making plans.
Here’s a rough idea of costs:
- At home or backyard: $15–$25 per person.
- Restaurant: $20–$50 per person.
- Small venue: $50–$150 per person.
- Large venue or spa day: $150+ per person.
Want to save money? Host at a free or low-cost location like a family home, park, or community center.
Choose a Date and Time
Pick a date that works best for the couple and their key guests.
- The shower is usually 2–3 months before the wedding.
- Check the couple’s calendar to avoid conflicts.
Consider these tips when scheduling:
- Make sure out-of-town guests have enough time to plan their travel.
- Avoid the same weekend as other big events, like bachelor or bachelorette parties.
Once the date is set, you’re ready to move on to the fun details!
2. Create the Guest List
A well-thought-out guest list ensures the couple’s wedding shower feels personal and meaningful. Work with the couple to invite their closest friends and family while following simple etiquette guidelines.
Work with the Couple to Finalize the List
The guest list is one of the most important parts of planning the shower. Keep it small and meaningful.
- Focus on close family members, wedding party members, and the couple’s closest friends.
- Ask the couple who absolutely must be there, and start from there.
- Consider the couple’s preferences…some may prefer an intimate gathering, while others enjoy a larger celebration.
Avoid Etiquette Mistakes
When it comes to invites, follow this simple rule:
- Only invite people who are also invited to the wedding.
It’s considered bad etiquette to invite someone to the shower if they aren’t included in the wedding guest list. Double-check with the couple to ensure no one is left out or added unnecessarily.
3. Pick a Theme
A theme can make a couple’s wedding shower more cohesive and easier to plan. It ties together the decor, food, games, and overall vibe of the event, creating a celebration that feels uniquely theirs.
Why a Theme Helps
- Themes create a unified look and feel.
- They make it easier to choose decorations, menu items, and activities.
- A theme adds a fun, personal touch that reflects the couple’s personality and style.
Popular Theme Ideas for Couples
- Backyard BBQ: Casual and fun with grilled food, picnic tables, and outdoor games.
- Game Night: Perfect for playful couples…board games, trivia, or video game competitions.
- Travel-Inspired: Celebrate the couple’s love for adventure with decor and food inspired by their favorite destinations.
- Rustic: Wooden accents, mason jars, and a cozy, country vibe that works for both partners.
- Tropical: Bright colors, palm leaves, and fruity drinks for a fun, laid-back vibe.
- Brunch: Serve waffles, mimosas, and coffee for a relaxed daytime shower.
- Movie Night: Decorate with popcorn, movie posters, and a projector setup for a unique experience.
- Sports Theme: Celebrate the couple’s favorite team with jerseys, themed snacks, and fun activities.
- His and Hers Favorites: Combine elements of each partner’s favorite things…food, hobbies, and decor.
For even more ideas, check out our detailed list of wedding shower themes for couples!
4. Choose a Venue
The venue sets the stage for the couple’s wedding shower, so choose a space that fits their style and your budget. Whether it’s a cozy backyard gathering or a party at a local restaurant, the right location makes all the difference.
Venue Options
Here are some popular choices for couples’ wedding shower venues:
- Home or backyard: Great for an intimate, budget-friendly gathering.
- Park: Perfect for outdoor lovers, with plenty of space for games and activities.
- Restaurant: Ideal for a low-maintenance event with no cleanup.
- Community center: Affordable and often includes tables and chairs.
- Rented venue: Best for larger or more formal celebrations.
Budget-Friendly Tips
- Use a family member’s home or backyard for a free venue.
- Check out local parks for a scenic and cost-effective option.
- If someone in your group has access to a college campus, inquire about renting event spaces at a discounted rate.
Choose a venue that works for your budget while still making the couple feel special!
5. Send Out Invitations
Invitations set the tone for the couple’s wedding shower and ensure guests have plenty of time to plan. Whether you choose physical cards or digital invites, make sure all the key details are included.
Timing
- Send out invitations 6–8 weeks before the event.
- This gives guests enough time to RSVP and arrange travel if needed.
Types of Invitations
- Physical invitations: Perfect for a formal or traditional shower.
- Digital invitations: Convenient and cost-effective options like Paperless Post or Evite.
What to Include
Every invitation should clearly list the following:
- Date and time of the event.
- Location with an address and parking details, if needed.
- RSVP information with a deadline and a contact person.
- Gift registry details, if applicable.
A well-timed and detailed invitation ensures everyone is ready for the big day!
6. Plan the Activities
Fun activities keep the couple’s wedding shower lively and memorable. From engaging games to music and gift opening, the right mix of activities will ensure everyone has a great time.
Games
Games are a staple of wedding showers and a great way to break the ice.
- Offer a mix of classic and unique options to keep things fun for all ages.
- Popular choices include:
- Couple’s Bingo: Guests fill out bingo cards based on the gifts the couple receives.
- He Said/She Said: Guests guess which statements came from the bride or groom.
- What’s in Your Purse: A points-based scavenger hunt using items guests have on hand.
Gift Opening
- It’s traditional for the couple to open gifts during the shower.
- If they prefer not to, consider hosting a luncheon or informal gathering without gifts.
- Tip: Play a game or have light music in the background to keep the atmosphere fun while gifts are opened.
Entertainment
- Create a themed playlist with songs the couple loves or tunes that fit the party’s theme.
- Keep the music light so it doesn’t overpower conversations.
Thoughtfully planned activities will ensure the wedding shower is fun, interactive, and unforgettable!
7. Organize Food and Drinks
A delicious menu is essential to any great wedding shower. Whether you’re going for simple snacks or a full meal, the food and drinks should reflect the couple’s preferences and fit the overall vibe of the event.
Menu Planning
- Focus on the couple’s favorite foods…this is their special day!
- Be mindful of any dietary restrictions or allergies among the guests.
- Keep it simple with easy-to-serve options like finger foods, appetizers, or a light buffet.
Options for Every Budget
- Potluck: Ask guests to bring a dish to share, saving time and money.
- Catering: Great for a hands-off approach, especially with a larger group.
- DIY: Prepare simple dishes like sandwiches, fruit platters, and cupcakes for a budget-friendly option.
Desserts
No wedding shower is complete without something sweet! Desserts are a great way to end the meal and can tie into the wedding shower’s theme.
Whether you go for homemade treats or store-bought desserts, make sure there’s a little something for everyone.
- Cupcakes: Easy to serve and customize with frosting and toppings that match the shower’s colors or theme.
- Cake Pops: Fun, delicious, bite-sized treats that your guests will love.
- Mini Desserts: Individual servings of cheesecake bites, tarts, donuts, or brownies are great for keeping portions small and sweet.
- Fruit Tart or Pie: A wedding shower favorite any time of the year.
- Cookies: A DIY cookie table is always a crowd-pleaser.
- Candy Bar: Set up a small candy station with an assortment of candies and treats that guests can take home as a favor.
Signature Drinks
Add a special touch with creative beverages:
- Mimosa bar: Offer a variety of juices and sparkling wine for a fun DIY station.
- Mocktails: Perfect for a non-alcoholic option everyone can enjoy.
- Themed cocktails: Match the drinks to the wedding shower theme or the couple’s favorite flavors.
With a thoughtful menu and festive drinks, your wedding shower will leave everyone raving!
8. Decorations
Decorations set the mood for the couple’s wedding shower and make the event feel extra special. You don’t have to spend a fortune…simple touches and personal details can create a stunning atmosphere.
The Basics
Start with these essentials:
- Table centerpieces: Flowers, candles, or themed decor.
- Balloons: Use colors that match the theme for an instant festive look.
- Signage: Welcome signs, gift table labels, or directional signs.
- Lighting: String lights or candles for a cozy ambiance.
Personal Touches
Make the space feel unique to the couple with these ideas:
- Photos: Display pictures of the couple, or highlight moments from their relationship.
- Personalized banners: Include their names, wedding date, or a fun message.
- Keepsake stations: A guest book or advice cards for guests to leave thoughtful notes.
DIY or Budget-Friendly Ideas
Save money and add charm with DIY decorations:
- Mason jars: Use as vases, candle holders, or snack containers.
- Paper decorations: Create garlands, paper flowers, or custom signs.
- Repurpose household items: Use mirrors, trays, or picture frames to enhance the decor.
Thoughtful decorations don’t have to be expensive…they just need to reflect the couple’s personality and make the space feel special!
9. Favors for Guests
Favors are a thoughtful way to thank guests for celebrating the couple. They don’t need to be extravagant…simple and meaningful gifts are always appreciated.
Popular Favor Ideas
Here are a few crowd-pleasing options:
- Mini candles: Elegant and easy to personalize with labels.
- Succulents: Cute and low-maintenance plants guests can take home.
- Baked goods: Packaged cookies, macarons, or cupcakes make sweet parting gifts.
- Beauty items: Lip balms, bath bombs, or small lotions are practical and luxurious.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Keep costs low with these ideas:
- DIY favors: Make your own candles, baked goods, or scrubs to save money.
- Buy in bulk: Purchase items like mini jars or succulents in bulk for discounts.
- Simple packaging: Use kraft paper bags, ribbons, or mason jars to create polished, affordable favors.
A small, thoughtful favor is the perfect way to end the wedding shower on a high note!
10. Finalize the Details
The final touches will ensure the couple’s wedding shower runs smoothly. With a little preparation, you’ll be able to relax and enjoy the day along with the guests.
Checklist for the Week Before
Make sure everything is ready by tackling these tasks:
- Confirm RSVPs: Double-check the guest count for seating and food planning.
- Finalize decor: Gather all decorations and any DIY items.
- Shop for groceries: Buy food, drinks, and any last-minute supplies.
- Organize games: Print or prep materials for activities and prizes.
Day-Of To-Do List
Get everything set up before guests arrive:
- Set up early: Decorate the space, arrange tables, and set up game stations.
- Arrange seating: Ensure there’s enough space for everyone to be comfortable.
- Prepare food: Get snacks and drinks ready or set up a buffet.
- Have an emergency kit: Pack items like scissors, tape, extra decorations, and a first-aid kit for any last-minute fixes.
With these final steps, you’ll be ready to host a stress-free and memorable wedding shower!
11. Virtual Wedding Showers
If hosting an in-person shower isn’t possible, a virtual wedding shower is a great alternative. Use platforms like Zoom or other video conferencing tools to bring everyone together, and keep it fun with digital games, virtual gift opening, and plenty of interaction. With a little creativity, you can still make the day special for the couple!
Additional Resources
Make your wedding shower planning even easier with these helpful tools and blog posts:
