This post contains affiliate links. This means that if you make a purchase through my affiliate link, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Planning a bridal shower involves choosing a fun theme that sets the mood.
It’s important to find something charming and easy on the wallet. That’s why I’m excited to share my top picks, such as afternoon tea, luau, carnival, and more.
These theme ideas will make the celebration special without spending too much.
Let’s explore them together!
1. “An Afternoon with Your Majesty” – Afternoon Tea Theme
An afternoon tea party theme is classy and won’t cost a lot, perfect for a chill time with friends. Here’s how you can make it work:
- Location: Have it at home or in the garden for some outdoor charm.
- Table Settings and Decor: Use vintage tea cups, saucers, candles, and fresh flowers to make it look timeless.
- Menu: Offer finger sandwiches, pastries, and different teas for a royal experience.
- Keepsakes: Give guests fancy tea bags and sweet treats to take home.
- Activities: Add fun with a game where guests guess teas blindfolded.
Your Must-Have Picks:
2. “Dancing by the Seaside” – Beach Luau Theme
A luau theme brings beach vibes to your party, making it lively and fun. Here’s how to bring the tropics to your party:
- Location: Make your backyard feel like a beach or keep it cozy indoors.
- Table Settings and Decor: Decorate with bright colors, tiki torches, and tropical flowers and leaves.
- Menu: Serve Hawaiian food like pineapple skewers or teriyaki chicken, and tropical drinks to keep the party going.
- Keepsakes: Surprise guests with themed favors like palm tree can openers or tiki glass shots.
- Activities: Enjoy coconut bowling, limbo, and a Hawaiian photo booth for extra fun.
Your Must-Have Picks:
3. “Carousel Dreams” – Carnival Theme
A carnival theme adds excitement and color to the bridal shower, making it memorable. Here’s how to create a whimsical atmosphere:
- Location: Host the event in the backyard for an outdoorsy feel.
- Table Settings and Decor: Use bright colors, string lights, streamers, and more carnival stuff for a playful mood.
- Menu: Enjoy carnival food like popcorn, mini hotdogs, and cotton candy.
- Keepsakes: Give guests boxes of sweet treats to take home.
- Activities: Play classic carnival games like ring toss and bean bag toss.
Your Must-Have Picks:
4. “A Country Fairytale” – Barn Theme
A barn theme feels cozy and rustic, giving your party a unique charm without spending too much. Here’s how to do it:
- Location: Make your backyard cozy with rustic decor and lights.
- Table Settings and Decor: Use burlap, mason jars, and wood for a country feel.
- Menu: Serve barbecue dishes like sausage, chicken wings, pork ribs, corn on the cob, and comfort food such as mac and cheese and potato salad for a down-home feast.
- Keepsakes: Give guests homemade jam or honey jars as a sweet reminder.
- Activities: Have some line dancing for a true country experience.
Your Must-Have Picks:
5. “The Secret Garden” – Picnic at the Park Theme
A picnic theme lets you enjoy nature while having a relaxed time with friends. Here’s how to make it work:
- Location: Go to a park or set up in your backyard.
- Table Settings and Decor: Use blankets, pillows, flowers, and wood for a cozy setup.
- Menu: Keep it simple with picnic foods like sandwiches, salads, and fruits.
- Keepsakes: Give flower seed packets as the memory of the day.
- Activities: Play outdoor games like frisbee and horseshoes.
Your Must-Have Picks:
6. “Back in the Day” – Retro Diner Theme
A retro diner theme offers a journey back to the 1950s, perfect for old-school lovers. Here’s how to set the scene:
- Location: Turn your dining room into a 1950s diner.
- Table Settings and Decor: Use checkered tablecloths, retro signs, red food basket with paper sheets, milkshake glasses, and more vintage stuff.
- Menu: Serve diner classics like burgers, fries, apple pie, Coca-Cola, and milkshakes.
- Keepsakes: Give vinyl coasters for a retro keepsake.
- Activities: Have a 1950s dance-off or costume contest for some fun.
Your Must-Have Picks:
7. “A Night to Remember” – Pajama Party Theme
A pajama party theme is comfy and fun, perfect for chilling out with friends. Here’s how to make it a night to remember:
- Location: Have it in your living room.
- Table Settings and Decor: Set up a snack spot, comfy seats, blankets, and soft lights.
- Menu: Enjoy movie snacks like popcorn and all sorts of candy.
- Keepsakes: Give personalized sleep masks or cozy socks for a thoughtful touch.
- Activities: Get your guests involved with a DIY pizza-making competition and watch movies for a relaxing end to the night.
Your Must-Have Picks:
There You Have It!
With these budget-friendly bridal shower themes, you can create a magical celebration that the bride will cherish forever.
So let your creativity shine and make her special day truly exceptional!