Bridal Shower - The Wedding Playbook Wedding Planning Ideas & Tips Wed, 13 Aug 2025 12:11:57 +0000 en-AU hourly 1 https://theweddingplaybook.com/wp-content/uploads/Wedding-Playbook-Favicon-2.png Bridal Shower - The Wedding Playbook 32 32 How to Plan a “That’s Amore” Bridal Shower: An Italian Inspired Celebration https://theweddingplaybook.com/thats-amore-bridal-shower/ Wed, 06 Aug 2025 06:02:12 +0000 https://theweddingplaybook.com/?p=44893 Love is in the air! A “That’s Amore” bridal shower brings all the warmth and romance of Italy to your celebration with rustic charm, authentic flavors and themed experiences that will make guests say, “Bellissima!” […]

The post How to Plan a “That’s Amore” Bridal Shower: An Italian Inspired Celebration appeared first on The Wedding Playbook.

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Love is in the air! A “That’s Amore” bridal shower brings all the warmth and romance of Italy to your celebration with rustic charm, authentic flavors and themed experiences that will make guests say, “Bellissima!”

Who would love this?

This theme is perfect for the bride who has a passion for Italian culture, loves cooking authentic pasta dishes, or dreams of a romantic getaway in Tuscany! It’s especially meaningful for couples who got engaged in Italy, have Italian heritage, or simply share a deep love for Italian cuisine and the warm, family-centered culture that comes with it. 

This theme also suits the bride who enjoys nothing more than hosting parties where good food and great conversation flow!

What’s the vibe?

Classic red and white checkered tablecloths reminiscent of a cozy Italian trattoria, rustic wicker baskets filled with fresh herbs and cherry tomatoes, and the inviting aroma of homemade pizza and pasta filling the air. 

Picture guests gathered around long communal tables sharing stories over wine, with Italian phrases like “That’s Amore” and charming illustrations of pasta, pizza and Italian landmarks creating an authentic atmosphere. 

The celebration feels warm, convivial, and deliciously indulgent, where love is measured in generous portions and heartfelt laughter.

How do I pull it off?

You’ll find our “That’s Amore” bridal shower blueprint here, which includes creative decor, unique games and thoughtful favors that match the vibe. Plus, we’ve sourced the best products online to match so you can enjoy bringing this beautiful event together! Shop the full collection here.

That’s Amore Bridal Shower Invitations

These charming “That’s Amore” bridal shower invitations feature a classic cream and red color palette with elegant typography.

Red and white striped backgrounds create a relaxed Italian cafe vibe, with designs showcasing classic Italian food illustrations including pizza, pasta, wine bottles, grapes and cheese. Decorative bow and ribbon details add romantic retro touches that enhance the theme.

That’s Amore Bridal Shower Decor

A Romantic Italian Backdrop

Create stunning Italian-inspired photo moments with a dramatic red balloon arch featuring cascading greenery and red roses, perfect for capturing that romantic “That’s Amore” feeling! Set up a charmingly simple Italian cafe backdrop using a white wall decorated with red script lettering, Italian phrases, and illustrated elements like pizza slices and wine bottles. For an authentic touch, hang wicker baskets filled with vibrant red geraniums and trailing ivy along walls or fences. You can create a rustic Italian villa feel with climbing greenery, wooden shutters, and vintage Italian signage for that perfect Tuscan countryside vibe.

Transform your space with a rustic fabric banner featuring hand-drawn Italian illustrations of pizza, wine, tomatoes, and candles to create instant atmosphere. Add sophisticated lighting with LED neon signs displaying, “La Dolce Vita” for a modern Italian bistro feel, or include a  laser-cut wooden “That’s Amore” sign to complement your balloon arch.

Classic Trattoria Table Settings

Layer classic red and white gingham tablecloths with crisp white napkins tied with red ribbons for that quintessential Italian trattoria look. Use woven charger plates or rustic wooden chargers topped with white dinner plates and red glassware. Place small terracotta pots filled with fresh herbs like basil and rosemary and scatter cherry tomatoes on the vine for an authentic, rustic feel. Complete each place setting with menu cards featuring Italian phrases like “Buon Appetito!” in red script. Take your event into the evening by creating intimate lighting with pillar candles in glass hurricanes.

Take your tablescapes next level with personalized hand-drawn tablecloths featuring whimsical Italian dinner illustrations, complemented by custom cocktail napkins with the bride’s name and celebration date. Add charming pizza heart-shaped place cards for a playful touch, and include “That’s Amore” phrase centerpieces in floral arrangements. Complete the look with personalized champagne labels featuring classic Italian icons and custom stadium cups for toasting.

Interactive Food Displays

Build an impressive Italian antipasto display using tiered wooden stands filled with artisanal cheeses, cured meats, olives, and fresh mozzarella drizzled with olive oil.

Display fresh produce like tomatoes, herbs, and garlic in wicker baskets with small chalkboard signs. Don’t forget a pizza station with individual bases and gourmet toppings for guests to customize.

Create professional-looking displays using editable menu signs featuring pizza bar themes and colorful Italian menu templates decorated with hand-drawn pasta, tomatoes, wine, and olive illustrations.

For a cute touch, provide custom printed pizza boxes featuring the bride’s name and date for a memorable takeaway!

Irresistible Sweet Treats

Mix and match these enticing dessert ideas to suit your event!

  1. Design a show-stopping red and white gingham cake adorned with a fondant bow and fresh strawberries that oozes Italian charm. 
  2. Create an elegant white cake display with subtle Italian-inspired details and fresh red flowers. 
  3. Set up a gelato cart or station with multiple flavors, with the option to serve in waffle cones, so guests can indulge in yummy authentic Italian frozen treats. 
  4. Offer traditional Italian sweets like cannoli, tiramisu cups, and biscotti arranged on vintage cake stands. 
  5. Add a whimsical touch with Italian flag-colored treats and small desserts garnished with fresh herbs like mint or basil for an unexpected but delightful flavor combination.

Crown your celebration cake with an elegant, wooden laser-cut, “That’s Amore” cake topper available in natural tones or glittery finishes. The delicate script lettering adds the perfect romantic Italian touch to complete your sweet display and provides a beautiful keepsake for the bride-to-be.

That’s Amore Bridal Shower Games & Activities

Where Were They? 

Test guests’ knowledge with this travel photo guessing game featuring snaps from the couple’s adventures, with participants matching locations to images. 

Make Sense of the Scents

Create a sensory experience using unmarked containers filled with classic Italian seasonings like oregano, parsley and basil for guests to smell and identify.

Guess the Recipe 

Ask guests to identify all the ingredients used in one or more dishes served at the event, with the closest guess winning a gourmet Italian ingredients basket.

Name That Pasta 

Set up a display of various pasta shapes for guests to identify, from common varieties like penne to more unique options like orecchiette, testing everyone’s Italian cuisine knowledge.

Mission Impastable

Fill a large glass jar with bowtie pasta and have guests estimate the count. The winner takes home the pasta plus a collection of Italian seasonings for this fun challenge.

Italian Phrase Matching Game 

Create a fun language activity where guests connect romantic Italian expressions with their English translations, learning sweet phrases like “ti amo” and “dolce vita.”

Wine Charm Bar 

Create a wine charm bar where guests can craft personalized wine charms, adding their initials and miniature Italian-themed elements like tiny pizza slices, grapes, olives, and pasta shapes to identify their glasses throughout the celebration.

Infuse Your Own Olive Oil 

Set up a station with premium olive oil and an array of Italian herbs like rosemary, thyme, basil and garlic, plus decorative bottles and custom labels for guests to create their own culinary favors.

Heart-Shaped Pizza Making 

Roll up your sleeves for a fun session of pizza making with heart-shaped dough, where guests can roll, shape, and top their own romantic pizzas using pre-made dough and an array of authentic Italian toppings.

That’s Amore Bridal Shower Favors

Want to take the guesswork out of what to give as favors to your bridal shower guests that will match your theme perfectly? Here are our tips for every budget.

Culinary Italian Favors

Gourmet Ingredients & Seasonings

Delight guests with authentic Italian flavors they can take home, including personalized olive oil bottles with premium infusions, or artisanal hand-blended Italian seasoning in charming glass jars with cork tops. For the ultimate pasta lovers, offer handcrafted fresh pasta ready to cook at home.

Kitchen Tools & Accessories

Give practical gifts that celebrate Italian cooking with personalized bamboo pizza cutters featuring custom laser engraving or beautiful engraved wooden spoons with iconic Italian expressions that guests can display or use.

Sweet Italian Treats 

Treat guests to personalized “That’s Amore” themed decorated sugar cookies with a delicious lemon flavor and coordinating icing, individually packaged with bows for beautiful presentation.

Practical Keepsakes 

Send bridal shower guests home with personalized canvas tote bags featuring beautiful hand-drawn Italian illustrations that capture the “dolce vita” spirit. Totes can be filled with all the makings of their next Italian feast – pasta, canned tomatoes, a spice blend and olive oil.

Stylish Packaging

Complete your favor presentation with personalized muslin cotton favor bags or whimsical hand-drawn favor tags with Italian food illustrations. Add authentic Italian flair with “Grazie” thank you stickers or personalized, pizza slice-shaped gift tags.

These favor options make for memorable keepsakes and perfectly complement the warm and authentic vibe of your event.

Plan the bridal shower of her dreams by shopping our collection of “That’s Amore” invitations, decor, games and favors.

The post How to Plan a “That’s Amore” Bridal Shower: An Italian Inspired Celebration appeared first on The Wedding Playbook.

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How to Plan a “Something Blue Before I Do” Bridal Shower: An Elegant & Timeless Celebration https://theweddingplaybook.com/something-blue-before-i-do-bridal-shower/ Tue, 05 Aug 2025 10:39:04 +0000 https://theweddingplaybook.com/?p=44823 Something borrowed, something blue, something beautiful just for you! This elegant “Something Blue Before I Do” bridal shower theme is a sweet nod to a timeless wedding tradition. Who would love this? This would be […]

The post How to Plan a “Something Blue Before I Do” Bridal Shower: An Elegant & Timeless Celebration appeared first on The Wedding Playbook.

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Something borrowed, something blue, something beautiful just for you! This elegant “Something Blue Before I Do” bridal shower theme is a sweet nod to a timeless wedding tradition.

Who would love this?

This would be perfect for a bride who appreciates classic elegance or has a special affinity with the color blue. Lean into the theme with all of your guests dressed in a gorgeous shade!

What’s the vibe?

Refined elegance in a serene palette of powder blue and crisp white, or add hints of navy for a dash of drama. 

Picture chinoiserie table settings with hydrangeas and roses spilling out of ceramic vases. A “Before I Do” backdrop sets the scene for photos, while a lounge area invites intimate conversations. 

Guests sip champagne from crystal flutes, indulge in a breathtaking dessert display and custom cookies decorated with intricate blue motifs, play “Something Blue” themed games and take home keepsakes that match the event’s sophisticated tone.

How do I pull it off?

You’ll find our “Something Blue Before I Do” bridal shower blueprint here, which includes event styling ideas, and unique games and favors that match the elegant aesthetic. Plus, we’ve sourced the finest products online to help you create this beautiful celebration with ease! Shop the full collection here.

Something Blue Bridal Shower Invitations

Set the tone for an elegant celebration honoring the bride-to-be with a sophisticated invitation featuring delicate blue florals, whimsical bows, classic chinoiserie patterns and refined typography in various shades of blue.

Something Blue Bridal Shower Decor

A Photo-Worthy Backdrop

Create great photo moments with one of these dreamy backdrops:

  1. An elegant balloon installation in varying shades of blue paired with crisp white accents, with centred signage featuring, “Miss to Mrs”, “Bride to Be” or “Something Blue Before I Do”.
  2. A tiered balloon garland that cascades around the sign of your choice. Or,
  3. Incorporate delicate white florals and greenery throughout the balloon arrangements for a romantic garden party feel. 

Position these stunning backdrops against walls or neutral backgrounds to make the blue tones and details pop beautifully in photos. 

Add a blue photo banner to the shower decor to showcase favorite memories or luxurious bow garlands for a whimsical touch. 

Refined Table Settings

Create a Serene Classic Tablescape

Layer blue and white chinoiserie plates with crisp white linens and crystal stemware. Add a blue table runner, patterned chargers, and coordinating blue napkins with chiffon ribbon ties. Small floral arrangements in mixed blue and white vessels serve as elegant centerpieces for a fresh aesthetic.

Create a Stylish Contemporary Tablescape

Create this look using classic blue and white china patterns, vintage-inspired plates, and crystal glassware. Layer soft blue linens with natural textures like woven chargers and incorporate fresh white florals with touches of blue hydrangeas or delphiniums. Mix patterns and shades of blue carefully, from traditional blue transferware to modern geometric designs, for an elegant, timeless feel that honors both classic bridal traditions and contemporary style.

Dial your floral styling up a notch by adding lush arrangements featuring blue hydrangeas, white roses and greenery in crystal or white ceramic vases.

A Stylish Drink Station

A beautifully styled drink station for this “Something Blue” themed bridal shower includes soft blue or white furniture pieces and is perfect for vintage-inspired crockery, plate and glassware. Create a sophisticated bar cart or rustic cabinet display in powder blue tones, complete with elegant glassware and botanical accents. Add custom cocktail napkins in coordinating blue and white accents and patterns, and for an extra thoughtful touch, personalized water bottle labels to complement the blue color scheme.

Create intimate seating areas with white chairs, ottomans and blue accent pillows, encouraging guests to relax, connect and have fun in sophisticated comfort.

An Elegant Dessert Display

Showcase sweet confections inspired by “Something Blue” on a stunning tiered display. Choose a fresh white cake adorned with delicate blue sugar flowers or textured buttercream frosting as your centrepiece. Complement with custom decorated cookies featuring intricate blue and white royal icing designs. Round out the display with cake pops, dipped pretzels, and other petit fours decorated in the signature palette for a beautiful dessert presentation. 

Something Blue Bridal Shower Games & Activities

The “Something” Collection

Build a special treasury for the bride-to-be, of memories from the past, dreams for the future and wisdom gathered along the way.

Something Old: Guests write down their favorite memory with the bride or bring a cherished old photo to add to a memory album. These precious moments from the past celebrate the bride’s journey to her wedding day.

Something New: Guests write heartfelt wishes for new experiences they hope the couple will enjoy together in their married life.

Something Borrowed: Guests offer their expertise and support by completing “Call me if you need…” cards with their specialties like gardening advice, cooking tips, clothing alterations and home repairs. They can also “lend” their favorite book or movie recommendations, beloved family recipes, creative date night ideas or life lessons.

Something Blue: Compile all contributions into a gorgeous keepsake book or memory box (blue, of course!) that becomes the bride’s treasury of love, wishes and ongoing support from her cherished circle.

Wedding Traditions Quiz

Why do brides traditionally wear white? Why do we throw rice or confetti at newlyweds? Test guests’ knowledge of the origins of wedding traditions and award blue-themed prizes to winners. You can play this fun game in the style of Jeopardy! where guests are given the answers and respond with a question.

Something Blue Memory Game

Show guests a tray filled with various blue items for one minute, then ask them to write down as many as they can remember. The person with the most complete list wins their own “Something Blue”.

Wedding Word Scramble 

Players unscramble wedding-related words like “honeymoon,” “bouquet” and “reception” within a time limit. It’s simple but surprisingly challenging under pressure!

Something Blue Bridal Shower Favors

Want to take the guesswork out what to give as favors to your bridal shower guests that are on theme? Here are our tips for every budget!

Bath & Body Favors

Pamper guests with artisanal blue bow-shaped soaps featuring fresh floral scents, individually wrapped in clear bags with custom tags. Dusty blue, scented soaps in rose or hydrangea designs offer an elegant touch, while bath bombs in blue tones provide a spa-like experience guests can enjoy at home. Purchase candles in blue glass jars and add a custom label for the perfect on-theme gift. 

Edible Favors

Delight guests with blueberry flavored lollipops or mini wine and champagne bottles adorned with personalized “Sip, Sip Hooray” favor tags.

Keepsake Favors

Offer lasting mementos like scallop shell ring dishes with chinoiserie designs, beautifully gift-boxed for presentation or vintage-look embroidered handkerchiefs with custom initials as a nod to timeless bridal traditions.

A Timeless Celebration for the Sophisticated Bride

The refined elegance of a “Something Blue Before I Do” bridal shower perfectly suits the bride who appreciates life’s finer details – fresh flowers in crystal vases, meaningful traditions passed down through generations, and the beauty found in classic color combinations. Creating an atmosphere where cherished memories are made and honored.

Plan the bridal shower of her dreams by shopping our collection of “Something Blue Before I Do” invitations, decor, games and favors.

The post How to Plan a “Something Blue Before I Do” Bridal Shower: An Elegant & Timeless Celebration appeared first on The Wedding Playbook.

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How to Plan a “Fresh Off the Market” Bridal Shower: A Farm-to-Table Celebration https://theweddingplaybook.com/fresh-off-the-market-bridal-shower/ Wed, 30 Jul 2025 06:29:25 +0000 https://theweddingplaybook.com/?p=44464 Rustic charm, nature’s abundance and sweet details are at the heart of this “Fresh Off the Market” bridal shower theme! Who would love this? This theme perfect for the bride who loves the simple pleasure […]

The post How to Plan a “Fresh Off the Market” Bridal Shower: A Farm-to-Table Celebration appeared first on The Wedding Playbook.

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Rustic charm, nature’s abundance and sweet details are at the heart of this “Fresh Off the Market” bridal shower theme!

Who would love this?

This theme perfect for the bride who loves the simple pleasure of gathering around good food with loved ones, enjoys cooking with seasonal ingredients or adores wandering through local markets on weekends! This theme becomes even more meaningful if the couple met at a farmers market or the bride comes from a farming family.

What’s the vibe?

Think wooden crates and wicker baskets overflowing with seasonal produce beneath striped awnings, herbs and vegetables serving as natural table decor atop gingham linens, and a “She’s Fresh off the Market” sign as a welcome and photo backdrop.

Guests can share favorite recipes, graze on artfully arranged charcuterie boards, play fun market-themed games and take home bunches of blooms tied with twine.

How do I pull it off?

You’ll find our “Fresh off the Market” bridal shower blueprint here, which includes creative decor, unique games and thoughtful favors that match the vibe. Plus, we’ve sourced the best products online to match so you can enjoy bringing this beautiful event together! Shop the full collection here.

Fresh Off the Market Bridal Shower Invitations

Take your pick of these gorgeous invitations for a “Fresh Off the Market” bridal shower featuring citrus fruits, leafy greens, flowers and market produce to create a warm, organic feel. 

Hand-drawn illustrations in sage green, rich red, gentle blues and creamy neutrals offer a welcoming farm-to-table vibe with a touch of whimsy.

Fresh Off the Market Bridal Shower Decor

Market-Style Food Displays

Build an abundant grazing table using rustic containers for tiered displays of fresh fruits, vegetables, artisanal cheeses and charcuterie for an authentic and fun market stall aesthetic.

Fresh Floral Arrangements

Arrange seasonal blooms in loose, natural bunches for that just-picked-from-the-garden feel. This is a lovely decoration that can double as a favor for guests! Have a flower station stocked with paper wraps, scissors and twine for easy flower bundling of guest bouquets at the end of the day.

Rustic Signage

Hang a “Fresh Off the Market” banner to create a charming welcome sign, photo or food display backdrop.

Natural Table Settings

Incorporate fresh produce into your decor to create an inviting atmosphere – think cherry tomatoes on the vine, small potted herbs and seasonal fruits. Paper menus and natural linens keep the vibe earthy and organic.

Sweet Treats

Top an elegant white buttercream cake with berries or figs, or serve up a sweet pie station for a delicious finish.

Fresh Off the Market Bridal Shower Games & Activities

Market Memory Game

Display a wooden crate filled with various market items for one minute, then have guests write down everything they remember. The person with the most accurate list wins all of the goodies in the crate. 

Spice & Herb Guessing Game

Fill unmarked jars with different cooking spices and dried herbs for guests to smell and guess. The guest with the most correct guesses wins, and the bride gets a well-rounded spice collection!

Recipe Exchange

Asks guests to bring a favorite recipe to create a meaningful collection for the bride. You can also ask them to include a story about each dish’s significance.

Build a Bouquet

Create a flower market station with buckets of fresh blooms and greenery, kraft paper and twine for that authentic market wrap, and everyone can take their creation home.

Paint Your Own Market Tote

Set up an art station with plain canvas totes, fabric paints, stencils and brushes. Guests can create their own personalized farmers market bags for a fun activity and practical favor.

Fresh Produce Market Stall

Create an authentic farmers market experience with a display of seasonal produce. Provide string bags, totes or baskets so guests can “shop” for items to take home.

Fresh Off the Market Bridal Shower Favors

Edible Favors

Let guests savor the market experience at home with mini jars of honey, homemade preserves, custom spice blends, infused oils or vinegars or flavored salts. Pair with a recipe for an extra personal touch. 

Garden-to-Go Favors

Give a gift that keeps on growing – potted herbs, seed packets, succulent cuttings or flower seed bombs. These plantable favors allow guests to create and enjoy their own market garden.

Natural Beauty Favors

Guests will love farm-fresh pampering products like soaps, soothing bath salts or essential oil blends as take-home gifts.

A Wholesome Gathering for the Bride-to-be

The relaxed, welcoming atmosphere of a “Fresh Off the Market” bridal shower is tailor-made for the bride who finds joy in life’s simple pleasures – fresh flowers gracing the kitchen table, homemade meals shared with loved ones and the satisfaction of supporting local artisans. It’s a celebration that feels refreshingly organic and unhurried, inviting genuine connection over perfectly orchestrated moments. 

Plan the bridal shower of her dreams by shopping our collection of “Fresh Off the Market” invitations, decor, games and favors.

The post How to Plan a “Fresh Off the Market” Bridal Shower: A Farm-to-Table Celebration appeared first on The Wedding Playbook.

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