If you’re looking for bridal shower themes that bring warmth, flavor, and a little bit of Italy to your celebration, the That’s Amore tomato theme is absolutely perfect. I love how this bridal shower theme combines rustic charm with vibrant Italian market vibes – it’s joyful, timeless, and feels like you’ve been transported to a Tuscan garden party. Plus, it’s one of those bridal shower ideas themed around food and culture that gives you so much room to get creative with your bridal shower set up.
This theme works beautifully because it’s rich in visual elements – think fresh tomatoes, checkered linens, herbs, and all those gorgeous Italian touches that make everything feel abundant and celebratory. The best part is that it’s fun without being over-the-top, and you can easily pull off stunning bridal shower decorations on any budget. Whether you’re hosting in a garden, at home, or in a restaurant, this theme adapts really well to different spaces.
I’ve seen this bridal shower inspo come to life in so many beautiful ways, and guests always love how immersive and delicious everything feels. From the food to the games to the decor, everything ties together in a way that’s cohesive but never boring. Let me walk you through all the details to help you create an unforgettable That’s Amore celebration.
The Overall Vibe
This bridal shower theme is all about capturing that warm, rustic Italian feeling – think Tuscany at harvest time. It’s vibrant and full of life, with red and green colors that remind you of fresh tomatoes, basil, and summer gardens. The whole atmosphere feels like you’re at an Italian market or family gathering where everything’s abundant, flavorful, and made with love.
I love how cinematic this theme is – it’s got that timeless Dean Martin “That’s Amore” romance to it, but it’s also playful and approachable. You’re creating a space that feels like a trip to Italy without being too formal or stuffy. The key is balancing rustic touches with moments of elegance, so everything feels intentional but still relaxed and fun.
What makes this bridal shower inspo work so well is that it engages all the senses. Guests see the vibrant colors, smell the fresh herbs and food, taste amazing Italian dishes, and feel surrounded by warmth and celebration. It’s an experience, not just a party, and that’s what makes it memorable.
Color Palette
The color story for this bridal shower theme is built around red and green – those classic Italian market colors that instantly make you think of fresh produce and gardens. You’ll see lots of tomato red, basil green, and forest green throughout your bridal shower decorations. These colors are so rich and natural that they look beautiful together without feeling too matchy.
I really like adding warm terracotta and natural wood tones to balance out the brightness of the reds and greens. These earthy colors give your bridal shower set up a rustic foundation and make the space feel grounded and authentic. Think weathered wood tables, terracotta pots, and those beautiful Italian ceramics in warm oranges and browns.
Don’t forget about checkered patterns – black and white or red and white gingham adds that classic Italian trattoria feeling. You can use these patterns on napkins, table runners, and tablecloths to create visual interest. The contrast of the bold checkered prints with the organic shapes of tomatoes and herbs keeps everything feeling lively and dynamic.
Bridal Shower Decorations
This is where the That’s Amore theme really comes alive – the bridal shower decorations are what transport your guests to Italy and create that immersive market experience. I’ve broken down the decor ideas into different categories so you can see how all the elements work together. The key is layering textures and using fresh, natural elements alongside more playful touches.
Fresh Elements
Fresh tomatoes are your star ingredient for this bridal shower set up. I love using different varieties as centerpieces – arrange cherry tomatoes, roma tomatoes, heirloom tomatoes, and even tomatoes still on the vine as garland running down the center of your tables. They’re colorful, they smell amazing, and they instantly tell everyone what the theme is about.
Fresh herbs are another must-have for your bridal shower decorations. Potted basil, rosemary, thyme, and oregano look beautiful clustered on tables or scattered around the venue. You can even give them as favors at the end of the party. I’ve found that mixing the herbs with red flowers and greenery creates this lush, garden-fresh feeling that’s really special.
Don’t overlook fresh greens and florals in your arrangements. Red roses, ranunculus, or dahlias mixed with lots of greenery and herbs create stunning centerpieces. The combination of flowers, tomatoes, and herbs on each table gives you that abundant Italian market aesthetic that makes this theme work so well.
Table Settings
Checkered napkins, tablecloths, and table runners are essential for nailing the Italian trattoria vibe. I usually mix black and white gingham with solid reds and greens to keep things from getting too busy. You can layer a white tablecloth with a checkered runner, or use checkered napkins with solid plates – either way looks great.
For place settings, I love the idea of writing guest names on dried lasagna pasta sheets. It’s unexpected, totally on-theme, and becomes a conversation starter. You can use a food-safe marker or small labels attached to the pasta. This is one of those bridal shower ideas themed touches that makes people smile.
Handwritten menus add a personal touch that really elevates the bridal shower inspo. Create menus with small tomatoes, pasta shapes, or basil leaves drawn as decorative borders. They don’t have to be perfect – the handmade quality adds to the rustic Italian charm. Display them at each place setting or on an easel at the entrance.
Creative Pasta Decor
Dried pasta is surprisingly versatile for bridal shower decorations. Farfalle (bow tie pasta) works best because of its shape – scatter it across tables mixed with red flowers, greenery, and small tomatoes for unexpected texture. You can also fill clear vases with different pasta shapes and add twisted yellow candles that look like pasta ribbons.
I’ve seen vintage tomato cans filled with dried spaghetti standing upright, and it looks really cool as a centerpiece element. You can also tie bundles of spaghetti with twine or ribbon and lean them against vases or prop them in baskets. These touches reinforce the theme without being too literal or kitschy.
Twisted yellow candles are perfect for this bridal shower set up because they look like fresh pasta shapes. Mix them with traditional candles in different heights to create warm, romantic lighting. The yellow color pops against all the reds and greens and adds another layer of Italian-inspired detail.
Statement Pieces
One of my favorite bridal shower decorations for this theme is using Roman statue heads with cherry tomatoes on stems cascading from the top. It’s dramatic, it’s artistic, and it perfectly captures that Italian aesthetic. You can find affordable resin statue heads online and drape the tomato vines over and around them for a really striking centerpiece.
Wooden pallet boxes are great for creating different levels and market stall vibes. Stack them to create display areas for bread, produce, or desserts. You can also use them as decorative niches throughout the venue – prop them against walls, stack them as shelving, or use them to define different areas of your bridal shower set up.
Woven natural baskets filled with fresh bread add warmth and texture to your tables. I love how they look piled with different Italian breads – focaccia, ciabatta, breadsticks. Not only do they serve as decor, but they’re also functional for your meal. This is that smart overlap between decorations and food that makes themed parties work so well.
Finishing Touches
Mirror balls might seem unexpected for a rustic Italian theme, but they’re what distinguishes this bridal shower theme from a regular pizza party. Small disco balls or mirrored spheres catch the light and add a celebratory, party atmosphere. Hang them above tables or include them in centerpieces for sparkle and fun.
Think about using vintage tomato cans throughout your venue – fill them with flowers, use them as vases, or cluster them as decorative elements. They’re nostalgic, they reinforce the tomato theme, and you can usually find them at thrift stores or online for pretty cheap. This is an easy way to add authentic vintage Italian touches to your bridal shower inspo.
Food Ideas
The food is obviously central to this bridal shower theme – you want everything to taste as good as it looks and feel authentically Italian. Pizza is a must-have, and I suggest offering a few different types so there’s variety. Margherita, marinara, and maybe a white pizza give guests options, and you can even set up a pizza bar where people build their own.
Pasta with different sauces is another staple that works perfectly for this bridal shower set up. Offer marinara, pesto, and maybe an Alfredo or carbonara so guests can choose what they like. You can serve it family-style in big bowls, or set up a pasta station where people customize their dishes. Either way, it’s delicious and very on-theme.
A beautiful charcuterie board is always a hit at bridal showers, and it fits the Italian theme perfectly. Load it with Italian meats like prosciutto, salami, and mortadella, plus cheeses like mozzarella, parmesan, and provolone. Add olives, sun-dried tomatoes, fresh tomatoes, and breadsticks. It looks stunning and gives guests something to nibble on throughout the party.
Caprese salad is simple, fresh, and totally Italian – plus it’s one of those bridal shower ideas themed dishes that’s super easy to make and looks elegant. Layer tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, then drizzle with olive oil and balsamic. You can serve it on individual plates or as a big shared platter.
Bruschetta is another classic that works great for this theme. Toast slices of Italian bread and top them with diced tomatoes, garlic, basil, and olive oil. You can also offer different toppings – white bean, mushroom, or ricotta with honey. It’s easy to eat while mingling and adds to that Italian market abundance.
Don’t forget focaccia and a selection of Italian breads for the table. Focaccia with rosemary and sea salt, olive bread, ciabatta – these all add to the authenticity of your menu and give guests more options. Plus, fresh bread always makes a space smell amazing, which adds to the whole sensory experience of your bridal shower decorations.
Drink Ideas
An Aperol Spritz bar is such a fun addition to this bridal shower theme. Set up a station with Aperol, prosecco, soda water, and orange slices so guests can mix their own drinks. It’s interactive, it’s very Italian, and the bright orange color looks gorgeous with your red and green decor. Plus, Aperol Spritzes are light and refreshing, which is perfect for a daytime celebration.
Italian wines are a natural fit for your drink menu. Offer red options like Chianti or Montepulciano and white options like Pinot Grigio or Soave. Prosecco is great for toasts and can also be used in the Aperol Spritz bar. You can create simple wine labels with Italian phrases or the bride’s name to make them feel more personalized and special.
San Pellegrino sparkling water is a classy non-alcoholic option that keeps with the Italian theme. Offer it in glass bottles with lemon and lime slices. You could also provide flavored San Pellegrino options like blood orange or lemon. It’s refreshing, it’s sophisticated, and it’s a nice alternative for guests who aren’t drinking.
Limoncello is a traditional Italian digestif that works beautifully as an after-lunch drink or dessert accompaniment. Serve it chilled in small glasses. If you want to get fancy, you could even make your own limoncello ahead of time – it’s easier than you’d think and adds a really personal touch to your bridal shower set up.
A Negroni station is perfect if you want to offer a more sophisticated cocktail option. Set out gin, Campari, sweet vermouth, and orange peels so guests can mix their own or you can have a designated bartender. Negronis are classic Italian aperitifs, and they look beautiful with their deep red color that ties into your color palette.
Bridal Shower Games and Activities
“Parole d’Amore” (words of love) advice cards are a sweet way to get guests involved and collect meaningful messages for the bride. Set up a station with pretty cards where guests can write marriage advice, favorite memories, or well wishes. Use Italian phrases or tomato illustrations on the cards to tie them into the theme. The bride will love reading these later and keeping them as mementos.
“From First Date to Amore” is a timeline game where guests try to guess important milestones in the couple’s relationship. Create a beautiful timeline display with photos and key dates – first date, first kiss, engagement, etc. Guests fill out their guesses and whoever gets the most correct wins a prize. It’s fun, it gets people talking, and it celebrates the couple’s love story.
“How Well Do You Know the Bride, Amore?” trivia is always a hit at bridal showers. Come up with questions about the bride – her favorite things, funny stories, wedding plans. Make it Italian-themed by including questions like “What’s the bride’s favorite Italian food?” or “Where in Italy does she want to honeymoon?” This game gets competitive and brings out lots of laughs.
A make your own pasta shape activity is interactive and so on-theme for this bridal shower inspo. Set up a station with flour, eggs, and rolling pins where guests can try making their own pasta. You could do simple shapes like farfalle or just let people get creative. It’s hands-on, it’s fun, and it ties perfectly into the Italian cooking theme.
All of these bridal shower games work well because they’re participatory without being embarrassing or awkward. They give guests something to do, they create conversation, and they’re all tied to the That’s Amore theme. You don’t need to do all of them – pick two or three that feel right for your group and the vibe you’re creating.
Free Bridal Shower Game Printables – Ready to Download!
Bridal Shower Favors
An Italian market “shopping” stall where guests choose their own pasta and olive oil bottle is such a creative favor idea. Set up a display that looks like a market stand with wooden crates, and let each guest pick their favorite pasta shape and a small bottle of olive oil to take home. You can tie them together with twine and a tag that says “Fatto con Amore” (made with love). It’s practical, it’s on-theme, and it lets guests customize their favor.
Small jars of tomato sauce are another great option for favors. You can make homemade sauce and jar it yourself, or buy quality jarred sauce and add custom labels with the bride’s name and shower date. Either way, it’s something guests will actually use, and every time they make pasta they’ll think of the party. Package them with a cute ribbon and maybe a wooden spoon tied on.
Italian herb packets are simple and sweet favors that fit perfectly with this bridal shower theme. Create small envelopes or sachets with dried basil, oregano, or Italian seasoning blends. Add a label with planting or cooking instructions and a thank you message. These are inexpensive to put together but feel thoughtful and handmade.
Recipe cards with the bride’s favorite Italian recipes are a personal touch that guests will appreciate. Choose 2-3 recipes – maybe the couple’s favorite pasta dish or the marinara they always make – and print them on beautiful cardstock. You can tie them with ribbon or put them in small recipe card holders. It’s a favor that shares something meaningful about the couple and gives guests ideas for their own kitchens.
The best favors are ones that guests will actually use and that remind them of the party. All of these options tie into the That’s Amore theme, they’re practical, and they can be customized to fit your budget. You could even combine a couple of them – like pairing a jar of sauce with a recipe card, or herbs with a small packet of pasta.
On-Theme Wording and Phrases
Using Italian phrases throughout your bridal shower set up adds authenticity and charm to the whole celebration. “Fatto con Amore” (made with love) is perfect for food labels, favor tags, or welcome signs. It’s simple, it’s sweet, and it captures the heart of what you’re creating – a celebration made with love for someone you love.
“Un Tavolo d’Amore” (a table of love) works beautifully as a sign above your food table or dessert display. It frames the meal as more than just eating – it’s about gathering together in love and celebration. I love using this phrase on chalkboard signs or wooden plaques near the main dining area.
“Dolci d’Amore” (sweets of love) is ideal for labeling your dessert table. Whether you’re serving tiramisu, cannoli, or Italian cookies, this phrase makes everything feel more romantic and intentional. You could also use it on favor bags if you’re giving out Italian sweets or chocolates.
The phrase “That’s Amore” itself should definitely appear somewhere – on your invitations, on a welcome sign, or as part of your photo backdrop. It’s the name of the theme, it’s recognizable, and it immediately sets the tone. Everyone knows the song, so it creates this instant warm, nostalgic feeling.
You don’t need to go overboard with Italian phrases – a few well-placed ones throughout your bridal shower decorations and signage is enough to enhance the theme without making it feel forced or like you’re trying too hard. Choose the phrases that resonate most with you and use them where they make the biggest impact.
Dress Code
For the dress code, encourage guests to wear shades of red – anything from deep burgundy to coral to bright cherry red works beautifully. These colors photograph gorgeously against all the green and red in your bridal shower decorations, and they help everyone feel like part of the celebration. Plus, wearing red to an Italian-themed party just feels right.
Fresh floral patterns are another great option that fits the garden-fresh, Italian summer vibe you’re creating. Think sundresses with poppies, roses, or wildflowers. Floral prints add to the abundance and natural beauty of the theme, and they photograph really well. They also give guests flexibility – they can choose bold florals or more subtle prints depending on their personal style.
Italian summer style is the overall aesthetic you want to communicate – comfortable, colorful, effortlessly chic. Think sundresses, linen pants, wedges, natural textures, and pops of color. You want guests to feel relaxed and beautiful, not stuffy or overdressed. This is a celebration of love and good food, so the dress code should reflect that easygoing Mediterranean elegance.
Include the dress code on your invitations so guests have time to plan. You can say something like “Dress Code: Shades of red and fresh florals – think Italian summer garden party!” This gives them clear guidance while still leaving room for personal interpretation. The most important thing is that everyone feels comfortable and festive.
Bringing It All Together
The That’s Amore bridal shower theme is one of those special ideas that works on so many levels. It’s visually stunning with all the reds, greens, and natural textures. It’s delicious with amazing Italian food and drinks. It’s interactive with fun games and activities. And it’s meaningful because it celebrates love, abundance, and gathering together – which is what bridal showers are all about.
What I love most about this bridal shower inspo is how it can scale to fit different budgets and venues. You can go all out with a full Italian market setup, or keep it simple with checkered linens, fresh tomatoes, and homemade pasta. Either way, you’ll create something beautiful and memorable that celebrates the bride in a unique way. The key is choosing the elements that resonate most with you and the bride’s personality, then building from there with intention and love.
Want to explore more bridal shower themes? I’ve got you covered. Check out these other theme ideas that might be perfect for your celebration:
- She’s Fresh Off the Market: The Ultimate Farmer’s Market Bridal Shower Theme – Perfect for backyard showers with fresh produce as decor, rustic baskets, and that casual farmhouse feel.
- Something Blue: The Perfect Bridal Shower Theme (Complete Planning Guide) – This works for any season – soft blues and whites with vintage Chinoiserie touches that look really elegant.
- Pearls and Prosecco Bridal Shower: The Ultimate Guide to This Elegant Theme – I love this one for elegant brides – it’s all champagne tones, pearls everywhere, and that classy old money vibe.
- Afternoon Tea Bridal Shower Theme: From Bridgerton to Alice in Wonderland – Think pastels, tiered tea service, and vintage lace – you can style it simple or go full Bridgerton.
- Love is Brewing: A Coffee Lover’s Guide to the Perfect Bridal Shower Theme – Cozy cafe vibes with espresso martini bars and rustic coffee stations – coffee lovers will be in heaven.
- She’s Tying the Knot: A Timeless Black and White Bridal Shower Theme – Classic black and white with bows everywhere and major Breakfast at Tiffany’s energy.
- Cloud 9 Bridal Shower Theme: Dreamy Ideas That’ll Make Her Feel Like She’s Floating – So dreamy with soft blues, cloud-shaped balloons, and that ethereal floating feeling throughout.
- She Found Her Perfect Pear: Modern Bridal Shower Theme, Decor & Ideas – This one’s unique – vibrant greens with fresh pears as decor and Renaissance-inspired touches.
- Italian Lemon Bridal Shower Theme Ideas: From Ciao to Miss to La Dolce Vita – Bright and cheerful with lemons everywhere, Aperol spritz bars, and sunny Italian coastal vibes.
- Love is in Bloom: A Garden-Fresh Bridal Shower Theme That’s Bursting with Color – Wildflowers everywhere, a DIY bouquet bar, and vibrant garden colors – great for outdoor showers.
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