A Public Plea to My Sister to Reconsider a Basic Bridal Shower Theme
2025 brides, let this be the year we leave basic bridal showers behind—choose a theme that’s fun, unique, and actually you.
My baby sister is getting married this summer, and as a former event stylist, my brain is naturally in full planning mode. One thing about me? I love a good theme. I thrive on creative details, cohesive aesthetics, and making a party feel like a full-blown experience. My sister, however, is far more… simple-minded.
[EDIT: For all the Reddit snarks— ‘tis but a joke. Yes, I adore my sister, and yes, this is a playful, albeit passionate, sisterly plea. I promise she finds my dramatics entertaining. Also, the only opinion that truly matters here is hers, since she’s my number one fan.]
The only thing she truly cares about is wearing a white dress. Which, fine, that’s a classic bridal moment. But for a brief and terrifying period, she suggested having an all-white bridal shower just to match her outfit. I simply could not let that happen. After some strategic begging and a PowerPoint (in spirit, not reality), I finally convinced her that white could seamlessly fit into any theme—no need to drain the party of personality.
Now, let me be clear: I am so over basic bridal shower themes. No offense if you love them (actually, some offense), but I refuse to slap a bow on everything and call it “bridal” or glue a ring on top of cupcakes and pretend that’s peak creativity. And don’t even get me started on the pink tea party shower—because that’s just a slight upgrade from the dreaded all-white “Kiss the Miss” concept.
Now, to be fair, She’s Tying the Knot or Something Blue Before ‘I Do’ are respectable classics, and I’ll allow them. But in 2025, I am making a public plea to my sister—and to all brides-to-be:
Please, I beg you, pick a theme that reflects your actual personality.
Your bridal shower is one of the few times in life when everyone you love will gather just to celebrate you. The least you can do is pick a theme that feels fun—something that represents your vibe and makes the event memorable for your guests. Because let’s be real, the best bridal showers are the ones that feel personal and playful, not just an aesthetic Pinterest board brought to life.
And if you’re feeling inspired but don’t know where to start, I’ve got you covered. I put together custom Amazon storefront collections for each theme, so if you need help shopping, you can click on the theme titles to browse curated decor, favors, and all the little details that will bring your vision to life. You can also check out my full bridal shower collection here for a one-stop shop of everything you need to pull off an unforgettable bridal shower.
So, in an effort to save my sister (and the rest of you) from a tragically uninspired bridal shower, here are ten unconventional, unique, and (not to be conceited, but let’s be real) absolutely adorable themes:
1. Love is in Full Bloom – A Cherry Blossom Bridal Shower
For the romantic bride who dreams in soft florals, this cherry blossom theme is as delicate and beautiful as new love in the springtime. It’s timeless, airy, and feels like the setting of a period drama where a girl in an empire-waist dress is about to get her first love letter.
Blush pink and white florals cascading over every surface, with delicate cherry blossom branches creating an ethereal garden effect
Elegant table settings featuring gold accents, silk ribbons, and dainty china that make you want to sit up straighter
Cherry blossom-themed desserts—think floral cookies, soft ombré cakes, and edible flower-topped pastries so pretty they’ll make you hesitate before taking a bite
A tea station with glass teapots, herbal infusions, and floating petals for that perfect dainty but sophisticated aesthetic
Guests dressed in soft pastels and floral prints, blending right into the decor
Personalized fans or mini bonsai trees as guest favors because why settle for basic party favors when you can give people tiny trees?
2. She’s a Masterpiece – A Monet-Inspired Bridal Shower
For the bride who is basically a walking work of art, this bridal shower is all about soft impressionist colors, painterly details, and elegant garden vibes. Inspired by Monet’s Water Lilies, this theme is effortlessly dreamy while still looking like it took just the right amount of effort.
Tablescapes featuring dreamy watercolor accents and delicate floral arrangements reminiscent of Monet’s garden in Giverny
A mini painting station where guests can create their own tiny masterpieces, because what’s a more fitting keepsake than something they painted themselves?
Hand-painted desserts—brushstroke cakes, edible flowers, and pastel-tinted macarons that feel like they belong in an art museum
Guests wearing soft pastels and flowy, romantic silhouettes because this is a theme where fashion should be just as delicate as the decor
Mini art prints or personalized paint palettes as favors, so every guest leaves feeling a little more cultured than when they arrived
3. We Are But Fools in Love – A Jane Austen-Inspired Bridal Shower
For the bookish bride who loves a true classic, this Jane Austen-inspired shower is a fresh take on the traditional tea party—more Pride & Prejudice, less basic tea with the Mrs. The goal is to make everyone feel like they’ve been transported into an afternoon at the Bennet estate, waiting for some eligible gentleman to arrive (but only if he’s well-read and morally upstanding).
Romantic tablescapes with antique books, floral arrangements, and elegant china that make you feel like you should be discussing proper courtship etiquette
A garden tea setting with delicate pastries, scones, and lavender lemonade served in mismatched teacups
Guests dressed in Regency-era attire—flowing gowns, gloves, and ribboned bonnets (optional but highly encouraged)
A personalized love letter station where guests can write advice, well wishes, or dramatic confessions of admiration for the bride
Handheld fans or custom bookmarks as favors, because what’s more Austen than dramatically fanning yourself after hearing mildly scandalous gossip?
4. Let Them Eat Cake – A Marie Antoinette-Inspired Bridal Shower
For the bride who believes in champagne, decadence, and dressing to the nines, this ultra-feminine Marie Antoinette theme is all about luxury and indulgence. Pinks, pearls, bows, and feathers create a lavish setting fit for a queen. It’s girly in the best way, and more is always more when it comes to this one.
A must-follow dress code, encouraging guests to channel their inner Marie Antoinette with corsets, lace, gloves, and extravagant accessories (because if there’s ever an excuse to wear a feathered fan, it’s now)
A lavish luncheon with delicate pastries, macarons, and tiered cakes that look almost too pretty to eat—but obviously, we will be eating them
An opulent décor style where more is more—think gilded mirrors, chandeliers, and floral-filled tablescapes that make you feel like you’re dining at Versailles
Champagne towers and tea service, because what is a bridal shower without champagne and tea served in fine china?
Feathered masks or pearl accessories as favors, because every guest should leave feeling like royalty
5. Love is All I Sea – A Beachy Bridal Shower
For the beachy bride who secretly wants to be a mermaid (a la Aquamarine), this coastal-chic shower brings ocean-inspired elegance to life. The goal? To feel like you’re hosting a celebration somewhere between a dreamy Greek island and a whimsical underwater fantasy.
Tablescapes with seashells, pearls, starfish, and driftwood to create the perfect under-the-sea aesthetic
A color palette of seafoam green, soft blues, and sandy neutrals that makes you feel like you should be barefoot on a beach
Ocean-inspired desserts like oyster pearl cookies, mermaid cupcakes, and shimmering cocktails served in glass bottles
Guests writing wishes for the bride and sealing them in small glass bottles for a Message in a Bottle Guestbook—because sentimental and on theme is a win-win
A beachy dress code with linen, breezy pastels, and effortless coastal vibes
Oyster or seashell candles as elegant, beachy take-home favors
6. Mon Chéri – A Parisian Romantic Cherry-Themed Bridal Shower
For the bride who thinks everything sounds better in French and believes in the magic of Paris, this cherry-themed shower is sweet, stylish, and effortlessly romantic. A mix of deep reds, soft pinks, and vintage details creates a perfectly flirty aesthetic.
Cherry motifs woven into everything—invites, desserts, and the decor (because commitment to a theme is everything)
French-inspired table settings featuring lace, bows, and vintage china
A cherry-adorned cake that’s almost too pretty to eat (but let’s be real, it’s getting eaten)
Classic Parisian treats like madeleines, croissants, and crème brûlée served on tiered stands
Guests dressing in red, pink, and Parisian-inspired outfits—maybe even a beret or two
Mini cherry candies or silk ribbon-tied macarons as the perfect little take-home
7. That’s Amore – An Italian-Inspired Pizza & Pasta Bridal Shower
For the bride who dreams of long, lazy dinners under the Tuscan sun, this Italian-inspired bridal shower is all about good food, good company, and effortless romance. Think rustic charm, rich colors, and a table that looks like it belongs in the Italian countryside. And if the bride is honeymooning in Italy, this is basically the perfect way to set the mood before the trip.
Tables decorated with fresh tomatoes, basil, and rosemary plants for that authentic Italian trattoria feel
A beautiful spread featuring antipasti, handmade pasta, and wood-fired pizza (because food is the real main character here)
Romantic outdoor ambiance, whether it’s a garden, patio, or cozy backyard dressed up in string lights
Guests told to dress like they’re dining in the heart of Tuscany—think flowy linen dresses, sun hats, and effortless European chic
Playful edible favors like mini bottles of Italian olive oil, mini jars of pesto, or artisanal pasta, because why give out something people will forget when you can give them something delicious?
8. The People’s Princess – A Medieval Renaissance Bridal Shower
For the bride who grew up dreaming of castles, royal balls, and fairy tale endings, this medieval renaissance theme is pure magic. Inspired by The Princess Bride and all things courtly romance, it’s the closest you can get to feeling like royalty without actually being born into it.
A stained glass welcome sign to set the scene like the entrance to a grand medieval hall
Candlelit banquet tables adorned with goblets, candelabras, and velvet runners because it’s not medieval if it’s not lit by candlelight
A dress code fit for royalty—guests are encouraged to wear flowing gowns, delicate crowns, and regal accessories
A princess crown station, where guests can decorate their own tiaras or receive delicate gold crowns as favors
A royal feast-inspired menu featuring rustic breads, cheeses, honey-drizzled fruits, and goblets of sparkling drinks
9. He Popped the Question – A Retro Soda Shoppe Bridal Shower
For the fun-loving bride who appreciates a little nostalgia, this 1950s-inspired soda shoppe bridal shower is playful, colorful, and just the right amount of kitschy. Think Grease, but make it bridal.
Retro diner décor with pinks, blues, checkered floors, and jukebox-inspired details
Classic diner bites like sliders, fries, and mini milkshakes because this party is as much about the snacks as it is the bride
A vintage soda bar with signature bridal-themed floats (because a milkshake in a cute glass is instantly more fun)
Guests encouraged to dress in 1950s diner fashion—think polka dots, swing skirts, and red lipstick
Personalized soda bottles or retro candy bags as nostalgic guest favors
10. A Love Written in the Stars – A Celestial ACOTAR-Themed Bridal Shower
For the bride who loves epic love stories, moody aesthetics, and anything a little otherworldly, this celestial-themed bridal shower is straight out of Velaris. Dark, rich blues, shimmering golds, and starlit details create a setting that feels nothing short of magical.
Cosmic-inspired décor with moons, stars, constellations, and celestial motifs
Candlelit tablescapes with deep blues, gold accents, and soft, glowing fairy lights (bonus points for star projectors)
Constellation cookies, celestial cakes, and cocktails with a shimmering swirl of edible glitter
A Court of Thorns and Roses-inspired quotes sprinkled throughout the decor because what is a themed party without a dramatic book quote?
Guests dressed in celestial-inspired attire—deep blues, gold accents, and just a touch of sparkle
Mini star-shaped candles or constellation bookmarks as the ultimate ethereal take-home gift
Bonus: She’s a Pearl – A Classy All-White Bridal Shower
For the bride who must have an all-white theme but still wants it to feel elevated and intentional, this pearl-inspired bridal shower is a sophisticated take on classic bridal white. It’s minimal but elegant, simple but stunning.
Tables adorned with pearl accents, candlelit centerpieces, and classic white florals
A monochromatic dessert table featuring pearl-dusted cakes, delicate macarons, and pristine white cupcakes
Crystal glassware and gold-trimmed plates to keep things looking polished and luxurious
Guests dressed in elegant all-white ensembles with subtle gold or pearl accents (because there is a wrong way to do all-white, and this is not it)
A pearl accessory station, where guests can choose between pearl bracelets, earrings, or hairpins as keepsakes
Final Thoughts
So, dear sister (and all brides-to-be), please… I implore you. Let’s leave the all-white aesthetic (and the super basic themes) in the past. Choose something personal, unique, and a little extra—because your bridal shower should be as unforgettable as the love story that got you there.
If you’ve made it this far, you’re either just as obsessed with themes as I am, or you’re a bride-to-be who’s finally convinced to ditch the “Put a Ring on It” aesthetic in favor of something that actually reflects you. Either way, I hope this list gave you the inspiration you needed!
And if you’re ready to bring your theme to life, click on any of the theme titles to shop my curated Amazon storefront collections or browse my full bridal shower shopping guide here—because planning should be fun, not overwhelming.
Need even more inspiration? I’ve also put together Pinterest boards for each theme, filled with mood boards, DIY ideas, and all the little details to make your bridal shower chef’s kiss. You can check them out here and start pinning your favorites.
And, sweet sister, if you need help planning? Well, you do have a former event stylist in the family.
With love and zero chill,
Nugget