Planning a Bridal Shower on a Budget

Often, bridal showers can be stressful, tedious and a breeding ground for disaster. Adding monetary constraints to an already volatile situation may make the planner cringe at the thought of organizing such an event. However, understanding a bride’s likes and dislikes and remembering who’s getting married can make planning a bridal shower on a budget stress-free and, even, enjoyable!

Likes and Dislikes

Start off by asking the bride what’s most important to her. If it’s really important to have the event at a restaurant, factor in the costs of not only the space rental, but don’t forget clean-up costs, gratuity and whether or not there will be an open bar. Having a bridal shower at a restaurant might also prohibit various bridal shower games or even having decorations. Budget-minded planners may see this as a blessing.

What’s Important

Remember that the bridal shower is meant as a celebration of one’s unity with another. Planners looking to cut costs can ask that donations be made to the bride in lieu of gifts. The majority of guests will be glad to cooperate and may even be relieved to find that they don’t need to find a gift.

Some other money-saving ideas include:

• Having the shower at a friend’s home or business. Often times, guests will be more than happy to open their home or business and will also give the bride that personal feel.

• Use a stereo, iPod instead of renting a DJ.

• Buy a cake from the grocery store and/or bake and decorate it yourself. Again, the more personal these ideas are, the more meaningful they are.

• Make it a group affair! Ask close friends to pitch-in and help decorate and cater. This will cut down on the total cost and make the bridal shower that much more special.

Ultimately, the bridal shower is meant to celebrate a close friend. Personalizing your shower with help from friends and family not only make the occasion budget friendly, but very special and something to remember for years to come.

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