Foods for a Bridal Shower

Create a bridal shower menu that will leave a lasting impression on the bride and her guests.

Planning a bridal shower is traditionally the responsibility of the maid of honor and bridesmaids, although mothers of the bride and groom or other family members may want to help as well. Creating a menu can be difficult, especially if you are not hosting the shower at a restaurant or banquet facility with set meal options. Plan your menu well in advance and consider the shower's theme and bride's style when incorporating foods into her special day.

Menu Planning and Budgeting

First, determine a budget. Keep in mind that guests should never pay for their own food, according to The Knot. Since the budget will depend on how many guests attend, get a list of VIPs from the bride or her mother early in the planning process. Once you have a budget, figure out what kind of shower you'll have (brunch, tea party, cocktail party) and choose foods appropriate to your theme. Discuss whether the bridal party or family members will make the food or if you'll have the affair catered.

Appetizers

Serve appetizers that fit with the location and formality of your shower. Wedding Channel suggests offering foods such as fresh veggies and dip, chips, cheese, crackers, or other finger foods. For a fancier shower you could serve mini quiche, bruschetta or chicken skewers. Brides.com suggests purchasing frozen hors d'oeuvres at a warehouse store such as Costco to save money and time.

Main Course

Get creative with your menu for the main course. If you're hosting a Mexican-themed shower, offer a make-your-own taco bar with toppings like cheese, beans and salsa. A casual backyard event calls for picnic food food such as burgers, pasta salad and barbecue chicken. Brides.com suggests holding a brunch shower with breakfast foods like eggs, waffles and pastries as an inexpensive alternative to a traditional bridal shower.

Desserts

Traditionally a bridal shower features a special cake, similar to a wedding cake. However, don't feel restricted to cake for your dessert. Treats such as cookies, cupcakes or pastries also are appropriate to serve at a shower, according to Wedding Channel.

Beverages

Offer guests both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options. Brides.com recommends cocktails like margaritas or martinis for a cocktail party, or fancy teas for a tea-themed shower. No matter what type of theme you choose, stock up on basics like soda, lemonade, bottled water, wine and coffee.

References

• The Knot: Who Pays for Bridal Shower Food?
• Brides.com: Budget Bridal Shower Ideas
• Wedding Channel: What do you Serve at a Bridal Shower?

Resources

• The Knot: Bridal Showers: A Planning Checklist