So the time has come for one of your best buddies and partners-in-crime to tie the knot. But for whatever reason (a short engagement, unforeseen events or just pure procrastination) it is only days before the bridal shower and you haven't even begun to pick out the food, figure out the music or plan the event. But never fear, there is a lot that can be done in few days to salvage the shower and ensure that you, the bride-to-be, your friends and family will have a time to remember. Does this Spark an idea?
Guests
Though you may have staved off planning the event until the last minute, don't panic. You are not the first, nor are the last bridesmaid to ever have a shower sneak up on you. When planning a bridal shower last minute it's crucial that you try to set two key components in stone as quickly as possible: the guest list and the location. So start calling up friends, family and wedding party members. While a last minute bridal shower may not be on everyone's to-do list, calling, e-mailing, tweeting or texting as many people as possible, as soon as possible, is the secret to ensuring that there are people there to celebrate the impending wedding. Also keep in mind that events during the evening or at night might be better for guests to attend last minute because it takes into consideration work schedules and other responsibilities.
Location
Next up, the location. Last minute planning of a bridal shower certainly does not lend itself to being all that flexible when it comes to a location, but there are a few solutions that can quell any fears about finding the backdrop for a shower. Enlist the help of guests or friends who might have a spacious home that they'd be willing to lend out. Apartment building community rooms and other spaces can sometimes be arranged for use last minute as well.
Decorations and Food
You've got some guests and a space to throw the shower in, now it's time to decorate and arrange for food. While thinking of a creative idea last minute may be a bit challenging, there are subtle themes that can be used in order to give some continuity to the event and give guests an idea about what sorts of gifts to purchase. A classy and sophisticated themed party, possibly a wine party, can be a good choice. Guests can pick up liquor and other spirits at a local store and don't have to worry about spending hours hunting for the perfect gift. Doing a more general theme based on what the couple likes (whether it is sports, nightlife or something else) can also be a good way of tracking down simple decorations and giving guests an idea of what gifts to get. Lastly, getting food together does not have to be the horribly time-consuming task that you're imagining it to be. Enlisting the help of a local deli can be the perfect solution to the bridal shower food predicament. Some delis, offering an array of sandwiches and spreads, can have turnaround for a large order in 24 to 48 hours.
Tags: last minute, bridal shower, friends family, guests idea, planning bridal, planning bridal shower