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How To Plan a Bridal Shower On a Budget | Affordable Ideas

May 13, 2025

Traditionally, the maid of honor and bridesmaids plan and pay for the bridal shower. After paying for dresses, shoes, and accessories, there may not be much left in the budget. Still, a bridal shower is an important event that helps make the bride feel special.

According to Bella Bridesmaids, a bridal shower for 40 guests can cost anywhere from $400 to $6,000.[1] The price can vary a lot.

The good news is you don’t have to spend a fortune to throw a great event. Here are some tips to plan a bridal shower on a budget without sacrificing the experience.

How To Do a Bridal Shower On a Budget

To plan a bridal shower on a budget, the key is to stay organized and look for deals. Good planning helps you avoid last-minute expenses and overspending.

Whether you're planning alone or with bridesmaids and family, track everything:

Venue
Food
Decorations
Gifts

This will help you stick to your budget and make smart choices.

Build a Bridal Shower Budget Plan

How much can you afford to spend? Start by setting a total budget, then break it down into categories like invitations, food, drinks, decorations, and party favors. If you’re splitting costs with others, decide early who will cover what.

Look for inexpensive bridal shower ideas to help stretch your budget. Consider hosting the event at home or a free venue instead of renting a space. DIY decorations and digital invitations can also save money.

Here's an example budget table for a bridal shower on a budget, assuming a total budget of $500:

Venue: $0-50
Invitations: $0-20
Food and drinks: $200
Cake/dessert: $50
Decorations: $50
Games, prizes, and party favors: $80
Miscellaneous: $50

The goal is to plan a fun and memorable bridal shower without overspending.

You might also like: Free Wedding Budget Sheet: Your Ultimate Template to Wedding Planning

8 Inexpensive Bridal Shower Ideas

A beautiful bridal shower doesn’t have to cost a fortune. With a little creativity, you can plan a bridal shower on a budget that still feels special. Here are some ideas on a budget to help you throw an affordable yet unforgettable event.

You might also like: Plan Your Fall Wedding on a Budget

1. Host at Home, a Park, or a Community Space

Skip the expensive venue and host the bridal shower at home, in a park, or in a free community space. This saves money and creates a relaxed, personal atmosphere. Just check for permits if using a public location.

2. Use Digital Invitations

Save on printing and postage by using free digital invitations from Evite, Canva, or email. These platforms offer stylish templates and make tracking RSVPs easy. Plus, you can send reminders without extra cost.

3. Make Homemade Appetizers and Desserts

Avoid catering costs by preparing easy, homemade foods like cheese platters, veggie trays, and cupcakes. A DIY dessert table with cookies and brownies adds variety while keeping costs low. Guests will love the homemade touch.

4. Offer a Signature Drink Instead of a Full Bar

Alcohol can get expensive. Instead of a full bar, serve one signature drink, like sangria or punch, in bulk. Offer non-alcoholic options like lemonade or iced tea to keep things budget-friendly.

5. Make DIY Centerpieces

Create elegant centerpieces using dollar store finds, thrifted vases, or household items. Mason jars, candles, and flowers can make simple, stylish decorations. Add fairy lights or framed photos for a personal touch.

6. Print Your Games and Activities

Skip pricey store-bought games and print fun activities at home. Free printable options like bridal bingo or “Would She Rather?” can keep guests entertained for little to no cost. And, a photo booth with printable masks can add extra fun.

7. DIY Party Favors and Small Prizes

Make homemade party favors like bath salts, candles, or decorated cookies. For prizes, choose budget-friendly gifts like mugs or mini beauty products. Elegant wrapping can add a thoughtful touch without breaking the bank.

8. Bake Cupcakes or a Small Cake

A bakery cake can be pricey. Instead, bake a small cake or cupcakes at home. If baking isn’t your thing, buy a simple grocery store cake and decorate it yourself with fruit.

More Tips for an Inexpensive Bridal Shower

When planning a shower, you want to keep it elegant without spending too much. A little creativity can go a long way in making the event feel special. These extra tips will help you plan a bridal shower on a budget while keeping it stylish and fun.

Recommended: Monthly Savings Calculator

Start Saving Early

If the bridal shower is months away, start setting aside money now. Even small amounts add up over time. A dedicated savings account that earns interest can help you stay on track and avoid last-minute financial stress when planning the event.

Stick To a Theme

A theme makes planning easier and helps you stay on budget. Choose something simple, like brunch, garden party, or vintage tea. This keeps decorations, food, and activities focused, so you don’t overspend on unnecessary extras.

Don’t Be Afraid to Borrow

Instead of buying new cocktail glasses, furniture, or charcuterie boards, ask friends and family to lend what you need. Borrowing items you need can save money while still making the event look classy and well-planned.

Build Your Bridal Shower Budget With Centier

By following these tips, you can plan a bridal shower on a budget without sacrificing style or fun. A little creativity and smart planning go a long way in keeping costs down while making the event special.

If you have time to save, consider setting money aside in a savings account to help cover expenses. Centier offers savings products that can help you build your budget over time.

To see how you can build your budget as you prepare for the big day, explore your options today.

Source:

[1] https://bellabridesmaids.com/blogs/bridesmaids-buzz/bridal-shower-faqs