Winter-Themed Bridal Shower Ideas

Hi Everyone! My name is Jenn and I'm the founder/author of hostessblog.com and hostesswiththemostess.com. Many thanks to Melissa for having me guest blog today! Since Melissa and the crew at MasterPiece Weddings already seem to have everything related to creating a beautiful wedding down pat - I thought I'd try something a little different and focus on bridal shower ideas today...and since December is upon us now and the holidays are in full-swing, it seemed like the perfect opportunity to talk about a winter-themed bridal shower... Place settings, centerpieces, & party decor... One of the BEST things about throwing a winter-themed bridal shower or engagement party during the holiday season is that finding themed decorations and tableware should be E-A-S-Y! For the ideas featured here, I've gone for a silver/blue/white snowflake theme, which was initially inspired by the pretty stock photo pictured above and can be found in stores all over the place right now. If you're hosting a sit-down brunch, lunch, or dinner – snowflake-themed place settings are a great place to start with your table design. Silver chargers will really dress things up - and are usually available in very inexpensive versions. I have a silver set from Linens-n-things that was only $20 for a set of 12 (and currently on sale for $15!), and places like Target & Bed Bath & Beyond have great options too. For your plates, table linens and silverware, basic white and silver works just fine - and a single silver snowflake ornament placed on top of each napkin is the perfect finishing touch. (place setting photo from brides.com). For your table centerpieces & party decorations, look for silver and white holiday decor with a contemporary feel. cb2 is one of my favorite places for shopping online, because everything is super hip and surprisingly affordable. The ultra-mod glass trees pictured above would make a great accent for your gift or food/drink displays. Place them on top of white linens with mini piles of loose faux snow. If you feel like getting creative, decorate the trees with adhesive rhinestone stickers or rhinestone words (the bride-to-be's name, perhaps?). And silver ornament stands, like the one pictured above from Crate&Barrel, are perfect for table centerpieces. Hang silver, blue or white glass ball ornaments from the stand, and personalize the ornaments with wedding-related rhinestone words or rhinestone monogram initials. The cylinder vases with white beaded sprig shown above are also from cb2. Not only does the sprig have a cool wintery feel, but it's also out-of-the-ordinary and a great alternative to traditional flower bouquets. Signature Drinks... It's always fun to serve a "signature drink" that matches your shower or engagement party theme. If you want to get colorful your winter-themed drinks, try a fun blue concoction like a Blue Mojito or Blue Monday. For white-themed drinks, try Spiked Egg Nog or White Russians...and always be sure to offer non-alcoholic versions or another special mocktail for your non-drinkers to enjoy! {cocktail images from cocktailtimes.com} Party Favors... Last but not least, a few fun ideas for your winter-themed party favors... mini felt mittens, snowflake placecard holders, designer snowflake cookies, and snowflake bottle stopper...all available at beau coup. Hope you enjoyed the post! Please feel free to post a comment with any of your own ideas for a winter-themed bridal shower or engagement party! Happy Holidays! Jenn :)