Bridal Shower Countdown Calendar

I don't know about you, but I work best with a checklist. Here is a run-down of where you should be at each point in your bridal shower planning process:

3 months before...

• Decide on the date; make sure to check with the bride, groom, mothers, and all of the bridesmaids
• Sit down with the couple to decide on the guest list
• Set the location of the shower; either a restaurant or someone's house
• Decide on a theme or style of the shower
• Purchase invitations (save money by making them)
• Send out invitations and include a RSVP
• Decide who will be taking care of the food; either a caterer or friend and family contributions

2 Months Before...

• Plan the menu; remember you will cut down on costs if you make some of the food (think deserts and appetizers)
• Set up a schedule of events  for the day of the shower
• Decide which games you will be playing at the shower
• Figure out the amount of gifts and/or door prizes you will need
• Choose your gift for the bride (it is common for the bridal party to go in together for a larger gift)
• Mail out invitations
• Gather any supplies needed for the games

1 Month Before...

• Finalize decorations (cut costs by making some)
• Purchase and wrap favors for guests
• Set up a RSVP list
• Plan a tentative seating chart

2 Weeks Before...

• If at a home, check that you have the proper serving dishes, utensils, and seats
• Select table linens and napkins
• Confirm reservations if the bridal shower is being held at a restaurant
• Order corsages for the bride, bridal party, and the mother and grandmothers
• If it is being catered, contact the caterers
• If friends are bringing food, contact them

Day Before...

• Purchase, pick up, or make the rest of the food needed
• Check your home for last minute cleaning
• Set up extra chairs for guests
• Check to be sure you have enough ice, toilet paper, garbage bags, etc...
• Set up a spot to display the bride's gifts
• Double check corsage order
• Provide a pad and pen for list of gifts and who gave them (one of the bridesmaids usually writes the list)
• Empty coat closets so you will have a clean space to hang coats

The Day Of...

• Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes ahead of your guests
• Have someone designated to help with last minute details
• Have glassware and light refreshments available
• Hand out the corsages
• As each guest arrives, make sure she knows someone or introduce her to others
• The bridal party should be at the door greeting guests
• Relax, have fun, and remember it's a PARTY!