Photo Source: weddingparty-boise.com
Although it’s best to host a bridal shower 2-6 weeks before the wedding, life happens and it may be that, as host, you only have less than a week to plan a smashing get together that doesn’t scream “last minute.” If that’s the situation you find yourself in, here are some tips to help you through each phase of the planning process.
Invites
If you only have a week to send out invites, it’s pretty safe to say they won’t be custom made and mailed. For quick and easy correspondence use a site like Evite to send out digital invitations or create a Facebook event. Just keep in mind that some people may not use the internet or Facebook much and will miss out altogether. Send traditional invites to those guests and follow up with a call.
The Menu
A good fly-by-the-seat-of-your-pants bridal shower menu might consist of potluck where you request that guests bring a dish. Another way to take some of the pressure off is to hire a caterer. It may not be elegant, but barbecue, sandwiches, hot wings and party platters are all easy catering options and you shouldn’t have too much of a problem setting it up a few days from the shower date.
Decorations
Everything from streamers and balloons to patterned paper plates and matching napkins can be found at party supply stores, sometimes even craft stores. It really depends on what the theme of the party is (if there is one) and how much work you’re willing to put in. If you’re bent on the d.i.y. approach, carve out some nighttime hours to get your craft on. If you’re hosting the shower at your home, take a look around and see what can be used. Even better is if the party’s being held at a restaurant or other location outside the home, as most of these places won’t require too much decorating.
Favors
Planning a bridal shower in five days guarantees you won’t be ordering any guest favors online, unless you want to pay an astronomical overnight shipping fee, of course. But never fear, there are plenty of quick and cute options in your own hometown. Put together little spa kits (nail polish, buffer, bath salt), bake cookies or buy gourmet chocolates and mini bottles of liquor. You could also gift potted herbs or succulents, honey sticks and tea leaves, candy tins or travel candles.
Activities
There may not be enough time to put together a scavenger hunt or bridal bingo cards, so stick with icebreaker games like Two Truths and a Lie and First Kiss stories, and activities like Pin the Ring on the Groom and Toilet Paper Bride. Think games that don’t take a lot of pre planning and few props.
