30 Modern Bridal Shower Ideas

Group of Women Holding Champagne Glasses and Smiling — JGI / Jamie Grill / Getty Images

While the future newlyweds will spend a bulk of their engagement attending venue tours and vendor meetings, the months leading up to their wedding are also filled with fun celebrations thrown in the couple’s honor. One of these pre-wedding parties is the bridal shower, a get-together that solely commemorates the bride-to-be. At these functions, the future bride’s closest friends and family (customarily female) gather together to support the upcoming bride and make her feel loved ahead of her special day. Typically, these bashes include light refreshments, icebreaker games, gift-opening, and conversation.

If you’re hosting this pre-wedding event for a friend or family member, you don’t have to limit your affair to these traditional activities, though. Throwing a modern bridal shower will infuse your function with more individuality and creativity, thereby making the party memorable for both the guest of honor and her loved ones—especially if it reflects the bride’s personality and interests. “Hosts can create a bridal shower that feels fresh, stylish, and tailored to the bride’s preferences, ensuring a memorable celebration for everyone involved,” says Kate Murtaugh, CEO and creative director of Kate Murtaugh Events & Design.

Meet the Expert

Kate Murtaugh is the CEO and creative director of Kate Murtaugh Events & Design, a luxury, award-winning destination wedding and event design studio based in New England.

Whether you include a few contemporary elements—like a unique venue, an interactive seating chart, or out-of-the-box entertainment—or completely forgo the classic activities in lieu of a trailblazing fête, a modern bridal shower will make the bride feel seen and appreciated and leave a lasting impression on your guests. “The flexibility in planning allows for creative and trendsetting ideas, ensuring the party stands out and keeps everyone intrigued,” Murtaugh mentions.

Wondering how to pull off a contemporary pre-wedding soirée that the bride will love? Here are 30 modern bridal shower ideas guaranteed to inspire you.

01 of 30

Host a Wine Tasting

Group of women clinking glasses during a wine tasting — zoranm / Getty Images

Since a celebratory event like a bridal shower calls for boozy beverages, consider hosting a wine tasting for the bride-to-be. You can either explore various offerings, guided by a specialist, at your home or visit a nearby winery. To go the extra mile, incorporate a theme that nods to a significant place like the future bride's engagement spot or her upcoming honeymoon destination. For instance, a Tuscany-themed affair might include sipping Tuscan wines from a long farm table, accompanied by Italian cuisine.

02 of 30

Teach Your Guests Calligraphy

Overhead Shot of Two People Doing Calligraphy on Paper With Case of Markers — Westend61 / Getty Images

If the bride-to-be enjoys art, design, and hands-on experiences, sign all of your guests up for a calligraphy class. Everyone in attendance will learn how to master writing beautiful script, a skill that will come in handy in the future. The bride will be able to flex her new talent when addressing her wedding invitations and composing thank-you notes.

03 of 30

Create Beauty Products

Group of women mixing and making perfume — Maskot / Getty Images

Inviting guests over to create beauty products is one modern bridal shower idea that offers an enjoyable experience and a functional keepsake. You and the attendees can whip up homemade face masks, sugar scrubs, body butter, and lip balms using all-natural ingredients that are easy to source and good for your skin. You can even hire a perfumer to help everyone make custom scents.

04 of 30

Take Dance Lessons

Smiling Woman in Athletic Clothes Dancing in Studio — Luis Alvarez / Getty Images

For a modern bridal shower idea that presents an opportunity to bond and break a sweat, enlist a dance instructor to teach you some new moves. There are endless options, from hip-hop to ballroom dancing. As you learn the choreography, you'll share many laughs and create lasting memories.

05 of 30

Try Tarot and Reiki

Woman performing a tarot card reading outdoors — Natalie_magic / Getty Images

Whether you visit a psychic or bring one to your home, consider arranging tarot card readings and Reiki healing sessions. "Tarot card readers provide a departure from conventional bridal shower norms," Murtaugh says. The bride and her loved ones will gain a deeper understanding of their lives and get all of their chakras cleared before the big day.

06 of 30

Throw a Coed Party

A co-ed party ay a restaurant with guests around a table — Kelvin Murray / Getty Images

While bridal showers are traditionally female-only events, extending the invitation to all of the bride's brothers, male cousins, and guy friends is a modern bridal shower idea that's becoming more and more popular. You can even invite the groom-to-be and all of his family and friends for a joint celebration.

07 of 30

Turn Opening Gifts into a Game

Closeup of Hands Holding White Package With Yellow Ribbon — Miniseries / Getty Images

Customarily, bridal showers have gift opening on the itinerary. But this activity isn't the best choice for anyone who feels uncomfortable in the spotlight. If you want to honor the time-honored tradition without the pressure, turn this portion of the party into a game. Set a timer for every five minutes, and whenever it goes off, the giver of the gift that the bride is opening will receive a prize. With this activity, the guests will be entertained, and some of the focus will be deflected from the bride.

08 of 30

Make Cocktails

Women watching bartender mixing cocktails — The Good Brigade / Getty Images

Gather the bride's closest friends and family to learn the art of the craft cocktail. Have a skilled mixologist guide guests through the basics of shaking and stirring to put a twist on classic drinks, such as an old fashioned, a martini, or a daiquiri. The benefits of this modern bridal shower idea are tenfold: You'll connect with one another, be entertained, savor the fruits of your labor, and learn a valuable hosting skill.

09 of 30

Learn How to DJ

Two Black Women Standing Behind DJ Booth in Living Room — Lorado / Getty Images

For another unique experience, set up a masterclass with a local DJ or head to a spin school, such as Scratch DJ Academy in New York or Los Angeles, to learn how to play and mix music. You can also host a private workshop where experts teach the basics of the turntable, mixing songs, and the timing of scratching.

10 of 30

Plan a Private Shopping Excursion

Four Women in Mall Smiling and Holding Shopping Bags — andresr / Getty Image

Hosting the gathering at the bride's favorite boutique is an out-of-the-box modern bridal shower activity that no one will forget. Many brands and local stores allow private gatherings to take place, where they serve Champagne and canapés and offer personal shoppers to help guests elevate their fashion. When planning, ask if the store offers discounts for private events—sometimes, you can buy items on sale for 20 percent off.

11 of 30

Organize a Cooking Class

Group of women at a cooking class led by a chef — Hinterhaus Productions / Getty Images

A cooking class is a modern bridal shower idea that's interactive and enjoyable for everyone—plus, it takes the focus off of the bride. Attend a private class or hire a private chef, where you and your guests whip up homemade pasta, craft mozzarella, or another crowd-pleasing item.

12 of 30

Hold a Charity Fundraiser

Closeup of Check With $100 Made Out to Charity — donald_gruener / Getty Images

Celebrate the bride while simultaneously giving back to the community through a charity fundraiser event. Instead of showering the woman of the hour with gifts, ask guests to make a donation to a charity of her choosing.

Establish a no-gift policy and share how guests can participate in the charity on the invitation.

13 of 30

Enjoy a Cheese Tasting

Trays of Various Cheeses, Nuts, and Dried Fruit With Two Bowls of Jame — Emir Memedovski / Getty Images

Want the bride and her loved ones to experience a food-focused affair? Find a local cheesemonger that allows private events, so you can host a custom cheese tasting. At this gathering, everyone will learn about different styles, production methods, and flavors of this delectable fare. Consider pairing the cheeses with complementary drinks and snacks, too.

14 of 30

Express Your Creativity

Group of women in a paint your own pottery class — sanjeri / Getty Images

If the upcoming bride is crafty and creative, consider hosting her bridal shower at a pottery studio. Sculpting and decorating bowls and vases is an excellent stress reliever, and everyone will leave with a personal memento. Some studios even offer paint-and-sip events, where you can create while holding a drink in hand.

15 of 30

Have a Wellness Day

Group of Women Sitting on Yoga Mats in Crossed-Legged Position With Hands Up on Knees — Fat Camera / Getty Images

One modern bridal shower idea that's restorative and indulgent—perfect for a bride who's planning her wedding—is a wellness day. "This modern bridal shower idea promotes self-care and mindfulness, giving the bride and her guests a rejuvenating and stress-relieving experience before the wedding day," Murtaugh notes. Sip on cold-pressed juices and munch on açai bowls before taking a vinyasa yoga class, followed by a guided meditation. End the day with massages, facials, or another self-care activity.

16 of 30

Get Makeovers

Makeup Artist Putting Makeup Product on Smiling Black Woman's Face — Zinkevych / Getty Images

At your bridal shower, consider bringing in a makeup artist to work her magic. As the stylist accentuates your features, you'll learn the best products and techniques to use for the future. For a fun favor, let everyone choose one of the cosmetic items to take home with them.

17 of 30

Pair Chocolate With Wine

Three women enjoying wine together and laughing — People Images / Getty Images

You’d be hard-pressed to find someone who doesn’t love chocolate and wine, so combine the two for a luxurious (and delicious) bridal shower experience. Enlist a local specialty chocolatier to pair styles of chocolate, such as dark, milk, and white, with different varieties of wines. Then, have the chocolatier explain how each selection was made.

18 of 30

Organize a Picnic

Picnic Setup With Blanket, Basket, Wine, Charcuterie, and Croissants — Anastasiia Krivenok / Getty Images

If your bridal shower is taking place in warmer climates or seasons, pack a picnic basket and take the event to a local park. Noshing on sandwiches and salads while lounging on a blanket beneath the sunshine is an ideal way to spend an afternoon in honor of the bride. Not to mention, for those on a budget, this modern bridal shower idea won't break the bank.

19 of 30

Attend a Candle-Making Workshop

Woman completing the candle making process — Silvia Bianchini / Getty Images

Attending a candle-making workshop with your guests is a pre-wedding festivity that's interactive, educational, and hands-on. While creating these decorative items, you'll enjoy one another's company while getting wafts of beautiful fragrances and essential oils. Look for something local or try an online class.

20 of 30

Craft DIY Wedding Projects

Closeup of Women's Hands Doing Needlework While Sitting at Wooden Table — Carolin Voelker / Getty Images

Help the woman of the hour tackle her wedding-planning checklist by orchestrating a bridal shower where everyone creates DIY wedding decorations to use in the affair. Stick with manageable projects that even novices can handle, such as paper place cards or table numbers. The bride-to-be will love adorning her big day with items specially made from her closest friends and family, and the handmade touches will make the celebration more unique.

21 of 30

Head to a Karaoke Bar

Closeup of Two Women Singing into Microphone — Jill Giardino / Getty Images

Karaoke is a great way to have fun and let loose with a group, making it the perfect modern bridal shower idea. Spend the night singing current hits at a karaoke bar or opt for a laid-back setup at home—just make sure you have microphones and plenty of drinks available.

22 of 30

Serve High Tea

Tower of Fruit and Cakes With Cappuccino and Champagne Glass on Marble Table — Alexander Spatari / Getty Images

For a modern bridal shower idea that’s upscale and luxe, arrange high tea. In addition to typical dishes like finger sandwiches and herbal teas, add Champagne to the lineup. Whether you dine at a lavish hotel or convert your dining room into an opulent setting, the experience will make attendees feel like royalty.

23 of 30

Indulge at the Spa

Three Smiling Women in White Robes Holding Glasses of Champagne — AzmanL / Getty Images

Plan a spa day for the bride and her group, whether it's in the comfort of your own home or at a high-end spa. Spend a few hours getting massages, manicures, pedicures, or facials. If you're organizing this affair at home, Murtaugh recommends adding soothing music, aromantic candles, and plush robes, too. Whatever the setting, getting pampered will beautify the bride for her big day and help her release any pent-up stress about her wedding to-do list.

24 of 30

Arrange a Booze Cruise

Four Laughing Women Holding Cocktails and Sitting at Front of Boat on Water — Suprijono Suharjoto / Tetra Images / Getty Images

Alcohol usually makes an appearance at traditional bridal showers, but for a contemporary spin, why not guzzle down cocktails on the water? If you live near the ocean or a lake, book a booze cruise or charter a boat or yacht, so friends and family can let loose, mix, mingle, and get a pre-wedding tan. "This modern bridal shower idea combines luxury, relaxation, and adventure, offering the bride and her guests an unforgettable celebration on the water," Murtaugh mentions.

25 of 30

Bring in Food Trucks

Smiling Black Woman in Overalls Ordering from Food Truck — RgStudio / Getty Images

If your bridal shower is taking place during mealtime, especially lunch or dinner, consider swapping the classic buffet for food trucks. Ordering meals from a mobile station is much more fun and interactive than helping yourself to platters of premade fare. And if there are several food trucks in the vicinity, guests can try different dishes from each one. For variety, we recommend choosing a mix of cuisine, such as Mediterranean, Cuban, Italian, Asian, and Mexican. "This modern twist on dining adds a fun and casual vibe to the bridal shower, allowing guests to sample different cuisines and flavors in a relaxed outdoor setting," Murtaugh explains.

26 of 30

Gather for Brunch

Table With Plate of Waffles, Plate of Macarons, Bowl of Berries, and Drinks — Austin Melonie Carroll / Getty Images

On the other hand, if your bridal shower is taking place mid-morning but you want to serve heartier refreshments, try brunch. Mimosas will obviously be a must, but fruit salad, omelettes, pancakes, and French toast are also considerable additions. You can even get creative with the setup like arranging a make-your-own waffle bar or açaí bowl station with endless toppings to choose from.

27 of 30

Schedule a Flower-Arranging Workshop

Closeup of Women Arranging Colorful Floral Bouquet — Malkovstock / Getty Images

A modern bridal shower idea that will transport your guests to an enchanting garden is a flower-arranging workshop. "Flower-arranging workshops engage guests and create memorable experiences," Murtaugh expresses. After assorting colorful, sweet-smelling blooms, you can put the bouquet on display in your home.

28 of 30

Screen an Outdoor Movie

Three Women Sitting on Blankets Outside While Watching Movie Surrounded by Twinkle Lights — Vuk Saric / Getty Images

On a warm summer night, set up a projector in your backyard and screen the bride's favorite movie. To make the environment plush and cozy, set up blankets and pillows for the group to rest on. String lights will also create a dreamy ambiance.

29 of 30

Take a Dip

Three Smiling Women in the Pool With Blow-Up Flamingo and Another Sitting on a Towel — jacoblund / Getty Images

Another modern bridal shower idea for summertime affairs is a pool party. Sipping cocktails while lying on lounge chairs and wading in the water is a supreme way to shower the bride with love, support, and well-wishes. Don't forget to create an upbeat playlist and fill the pool with inflatable animals. While this option is perfect for those with a private pool, you can always ask the group if anyone is willing to lend theirs.

30 of 30

Orchestrate a Scavenger Hunt

Chalkboard Sign Shaped Like an Arrow Pointing to Wooded Area — Gareth Webb / Getty Images

To bring a little friendly competition to your bridal shower bash, put together a scavenger hunt. While the nature of this game varies, creating a list of objects for guests to find (and capture on their phones) is a seamless way to enact this activity. Be sure to give the winning team a prize.

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