Whether you're the maid of honor or mother of the bride, planning the bridal shower is another item on the wedding to-do list. The hardest part is knowing where to start, but once you book your venue, the rest of the planning should easily fall into place. Here's how to start planning a successful bridal shower that leaves everyone feeling cheerful and excited for the future wedding.

Selecting a Venue

When selecting a bridal shower venue, there are several important factors to take into account. You must choose a location with space for all potential attendees, even if it's unlikely everyone will be able to make it. Bridal showers usually include the bride and her family, her bridal party, and her other close friends. Start by making a budget so you can narrow your search and choose a financially responsible option. 

Bridal showers don't need to be hosted at banquet halls and large-scale event spaces; they can take place in cafes, coffee shops, restaurants, and parks. Many of these locations have event spaces that are beautifully decorated and given additional service for this special event. 

Designing Your Vision

Once you have a venue picked, it should be easier to create your vision for the party. If it's at a small cafe or coffee shop, you might want to go for a brunch theme. If you choose a restaurant, it makes more sense to have a sit-down lunch. 

Some venues provide event planning professionals to help you utilize their event space, offering catering, bartending, and other services. Selecting the menu and drink options should be one of your highest priorities—it's what many guests are probably looking forward to. Decide if you want full course meals or small plates of desserts or savory dishes and if you want to serve alcohol.

If the venue isn't pre-decorated, you'll need to decide on accents and activities you want to display throughout the party, such as party games, arts and crafts, floral arrangements, lighting, photo backdrops, and balloons.

If you're looking for an intimate location to host your bridal shower, Café One is a two-in-one cafe and event space in St. Louis, MO. They have a delicious menu with coffee, tea, and desserts perfect for celebrating your engagement. Their professional staff will help you choose the right food for your party and organize the event, giving you access to their private party room for your special day. Check their availability and book your next event on their website, or call (314) 717-0324 to inquire more about their event space.