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“Bridal showers are no longer just for the ladies. Make all or a part of the celebration co-ed for an opportunity to bring families and friends together before the wedding weekend. The more guests are able to bond and get to know one another leading up to the wedding, the more fun everyone will have on the big day.” —Jamie Sears & Kate Harlan, Lead Designers, Simply Chic Events
Photography: Jose Villa

“From the invites to the décor, use colors that aren’t so bridal (like pink and purple). Mix it up and use greens or yellows and reds.” —Terri Eaves, Founder & Creative Director, Bash
Photography: Abby Jiu Photography

“It’s all about the killer brunch these days. Opt for an earlier start time (say, 10 a.m.) and serve decadent items like piping hot popovers with handmade strawberry butter. The early time frame will also afford those traveling to your shower from out of town the luxury of lounging around for the afternoon or sight-seeing in the city before other plans unfold.” —Calder Clark, Owner & Creative Director, Calder Clark

Photography: Caitlin Colcolough

“Up the activities, instead of guests giving the typical advice for the bride or chatting about how well the bride and groom know each other, think about an innovative take on traditional games. Have people submit their ‘most embarrassing/funny/romantic’ moments from their own wedding and then, have everyone guess whose story it was!'” —Debby Jewesson, Owner & Creative Director, Branching Out Events
Photography: Sarah Kate Photographer

“Design will go a long way in making your shower feel modern. A great way to put an updated spin on a bridal shower is to incorporate prints into your décor. The blue and white patterns on these ginger vases are timeless, but add an unexpected element of design and a contemporary feel to a soft and feminine table.” —Emily Campbell, Founder & Creative Director, Bella Design & Planning
Flowers by A Secret Garden

“Everybody loves a stylish bar cart. To create the look, bring in decanters and buy a set of snazzy highball glasses to give your bar area that ‘wow’ factor. Coasters are also a great way to bring in personalized details like the bride’s name and wedding day.” —Christina Millikin, Owner & Founder, Glow Event Design
Photography: Melanie Duerkopp

“Bridal showers don’t need to be reserved for restaurants or homes. Host at an unexpected place from a winery to a sporting event. Pick a location that most speaks to the couple.” —Hunter Lowder, Owner, Holman Ranch
Photography: Carlie Statsky

“Think about serving items that have meaning, whether through the meal or just for dessert. An easy way to execute this is to use the bride or the couple’s favorite sweets and make it an experience, from a make-your-own-s’mores station to a vast selection of whoopie pies.” —Lauren Plue, Sales Manager, Blue Plate Catering
Photography: Courtesy of Blue Plate Catering

“Bridal showers of today don’t need to be formal or stuffy. It’s all about creating memories in a relaxed setting.” —Dorothée Brand, Co-Owner, Belathée Photography
Photography: Belathée Photography

“Host a bouquet or flower crown bar. This is not only a great activity but also a great gift. Each guest will be able to have a custom floral wreath made for them to enjoy and take home.” —Denise Fasanello, Owner & Creative Director, Denise Fasanello Flowers
Photography: Jules Slütsky

“Bridal showers are no longer just for the ladies. Make all or a part of the celebration co-ed for an opportunity to bring families and friends together before the wedding weekend. The more guests are able to bond and get to know one another leading up to the wedding, the more fun everyone will have on the big day.” —Jamie Sears & Kate Harlan, Lead Designers, Simply Chic Events
Photography: Jose Villa