Back to Nuvow.com
If you’re in charge of planning a bridal shower and don’t know where to start, why not get inspired by beautiful vacation destinations? Even if your guests aren’t able to travel to exotic destinations for the shower, at least they will feel like they did! Keep reading to see our top eight travel-inspired bridal shower themes that can create an unforgettable experience for the bride and shower guests.
Southern Charm
Bring out the sweet tea and celebrate in your finest Sunday outfits! A southern charm bridal shower is all about the accessories, such as pearls, lace, big floppy hats, and hand fans. We love the idea of gifting hats upon the arrival of your guests – not only will it make for a great photo op, but the attendees get to go home with a memorable bridal shower favor.
This very ladylike theme has potential for a lot of delicious sweets as well, like pecan pie, coconut cake, banana pudding, and moon pies. It’s also the perfect opportunity to create a signature drink using traditional southern sweet tea or other southern-inspired ingredients. After all, what sounds nicer than sipping on a mint julep?
Hawaiian Luau
Give your guests a true ‘aloha’ experience with a Hawaiian luau bridal shower theme bursting with colors, flavors, and fun. The best part about a luau-themed shower might just be the food and drinks! Think beachy libations with hints of pineapple and coconut, or opt for a signature cocktail like a Mai Tai or blue Hawaiian. For the food, capture the spirit of a luau with tuna poke, pineapple skewers, roasted pork sliders, macaroni salad, and maybe even some Spam musubi.
To achieve this look for the shower, use bright blooms, such as hibiscus or other tropical flowers. Also, bring in vibrant, island-inspired colors like blue, green, orange, and yellow. Charm your guests with beautiful leis to wear during the event, and don’t be scared to go overboard with the palm leaves, pineapples, and fresh florals!
Take Me to Paris
What could be more romantic than a bridal shower with Parisian elegance and decadence? Paris is known for its bright lights, high fashion, and tasty sweets. By pulling in some of this inspiration, you’ll be sure to please your guests. We love the idea of Eiffel Tower décor, cake stands with towering macarons, and tables adorned with fresh flowers and vintage prints. Choose classic colors like black and white with pops of silver or gold metallics. You can even impress your guests with a crepe bar or patisserie table to go along with coffee and (of course) champagne. Très chic!
Boho Glamping
Create the ultimate retreat for your bridal shower with a boho-chic picnic or a rustic-glam backyard dinner party. To achieve this look, think comfy floor pillows, textured throw rugs, soft pastel color palettes, lace or macramé accents, natural wood furnishings, and fresh flowers.
To truly make this a “glamping” experience, rent or buy a teepee for the event that will be great for photo ops or even for a girls’ night slumber party. If possible, add a bonfire and s’mores to really bring the theme home. Whether you choose to go all out and make this a real camping trip for you and the bride tribe, or just want to have a glamping-style dining experience, have fun with it. This theme can be laidback and cozy while still feeling fancy. The more eclectic, the better!
Palm Springs Pool Party
If the bride is all about fun in the sun, then this bridal shower theme is the one. Whether you are traveling to Palm Springs or just daydreaming about it, this theme has so many fun options to choose from! Is the event going to be centered around the retro-glam aesthetic of Palm Springs, or do you want to go in a tropical direction with pineapples, pink flamingo pool floats, and cocktails adorned with mini umbrellas?
Either way, funky, bright florals will make a statement, and metallic accents will add glamour. For the beverages, opt for a fruity or tropical signature drink, and offer light appetizers like Caprese salad bites, vegetables and hummus, Caesar salad wraps, and cantaloupe with prosciutto. Even if you can’t be next to an actual pool, this bright and colorful theme is a fun way to celebrate with a destination-inspired look.
All Aboard
Is the bride a fan of sailing, or does she spend a lot of time near the ocean? A nautical-themed bridal shower may just be the ticket. Whether you’re planning the party close to water or on land, décor like navy stripes, nautical rope, anchors, mermaids, and ship wheels are fun ways to incorporate this theme. And if you’re fortunate enough, this theme offers a great opportunity to plan the party on a boat. Look into options for chartered boat rides for groups of six to 12 guests or research sunset cruises at the nearest port.
Snowy Chalet
If the bride is having a winter wedding or perhaps is a fan of skiing and winter sports, a snowy chalet-themed bridal shower is a beautiful option. Create a winter wonderland for guests to enjoy, complete with cozy candles, warm lighting, flannel blankets, and snowy backdrops for photo ops. Add rustic touches such as fresh garland, whimsical woodland creatures, and pinecones. And for an extra warm touch, provide a coffee or hot chocolate bar where your guests can customize their beverages.
English Garden
Transport your guests to a magical secret garden with an English garden bridal shower theme. There are endless ways to make this theme romantic and fun with delicate florals, fresh bouquets, lace tablecloths, vintage silverware, and teacups and plates in soft or eclectic patterns.
For the drinks, have both tea and bubbly options for your guests, alongside menu options like tea sandwiches and sweets like scones, fruit tarts, or classically decorated cakes. Display them on a tiered or tall cake stand for extra glam. It will be like a scene straight from Downton Abbey!
