I just recently threw a bridal shower for my cousin who's getting married in about a month.

I'm her maid of honor and usually, the bridal shower and bachelorette party are the maid of honor's responsibility. Since this was my first time ever being a maid of honor, throwing, organizing, and coordinating a special event like a shower was entirely new and a handful.

Don't get me wrong, the stress was worth it but of course, there are so many things I was able to learn that if I were to throw another bridal shower, I'm sure I'd be better prepared. If you're in the same spot as me and want to throw the bride-to-be a successful shower, kick back, relax, and just keep in mind some of these tips.

1. Always talk to the bride first.

This shower is for the bride, not for you. So you always have to keep in mind what SHE wants. Of course, you will be organizing the whole thing, which means you'll have some type of creative control but never forget what the bride will be uncomfortable or comfortable with. If you want to throw a surprise bridal shower, then make sure to talk to the people who know her the best so you can still get a good idea of what she would want.

2. Make a budget.

The hardest thing to control when planning a big event is finances. Because, although you may have spectacular ideas in your head of how you want the bridal shower to be, your wallet could give you a reality check. You will also need to consider the budget when you're sharing the planning with other people of the bridal party. Having a budget is the first and most vital step to the ultimate organization for party planning.

3. Send the invitations on time.

It's really easy to forget sending the invitations. We all have lives and are busy but sending the invitations ahead of time gives you peace of mind. Invitations take a while to make or even order, so getting them out on time will help get everything rolling. I suggest, sending them a minimum of two months before the date of the shower.

4. Keep all ideas in one place.

If you have a Pinterest, then obviously keeping a board just for the shower really helps. If you're a bit more old school, I suggest a notebook or planner just for the shower because every single thought you have for it could be important and everything could get messy if you don't learn to organize your very own thoughts.

5. Communicate and ask for help.

Make sure you're not leaving everything to yourself. You will need help but you will need to communicate that. No one is a mind reader and it can be really easy to hide your stress. Make sure not to drown yourself because you'll actually decrease your productivity and creativity. Take deep breaths and take the planning a day at a time. And remember, have fun!

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