My family and I just celebrated my sister’s bridal shower this past weekend. She is the fourth sibling of mine to get married, so needless to say I have experienced multiple weddings and the planning so far in my life. Yet it always amazes me how much detail goes into all of the planning, especially throwing the bridal shower! As we begin to get older, there will be more and more weddings that we will be attending, or even partaking in. Here is a guide and some helpful tips that you can use to plan not only a bridal shower, but any organized party in general!

1. Shop as you go

Don’t wait until the last minute to run out and buy decorations and other supplies. If you’re out shopping for other items and you see products that will work for the event, pick them up! It can also help you save money in the long run if you buy things while they're on sale!

2. Keep in touch with all bridesmaids/people organizing

Best way to do this would be to create a group email or group text message. That way everyone is on the same page, can collaborate on ideas, and discuss what needs to be purchased. It keeps the planning organized and is a good way to send out friendly reminders or last minute details that need to be settled.

3. Pick a theme

Having a theme for the party makes it more fun! Brainstorm what the person you are throwing the event for loves, and try and turn that into a theme! It also makes it a little easier when buying decorations because it gives you a path and direction to follow! If you cannot think of a theme, next best thing to do would be create a color scheme.

4. Split the costs and the responsibilities

If several people are throwing the party/shower, it is only fair to split the costs and the responsibilities of what needs to be done. With more help and people that are willing to help, everything is simply easier. It also helps everyone's wallet and time!

5. Be available for setup and cleanup

Be ready to report to the venue early the day of, or day before to set up, then come back for clean up! Since you are the party thrower, the not so fun dirty work is your responsibility. But, you get to decorate as you would like it to work and if everyone helps again, cleanup should not be too bad.

6. Finally, have fun with it!

The planning and setting up can be stressful times, but in the end just keep in mind you are doing this for someone special and enjoy the party! The person you are throwing it for will surely appreciate it and you can sit back and admire your work as people give you compliments. Stay organized and enjoy the process!