A virtual bridal shower is becoming the norm for a lot of couples this year.If you’re thinking about one, look no further. Moving from in person to virtual will definitely feel a little different, but can still be lots of fun. Check out our guide below to get started!
The Technology
Before you send out a new invitation, you will want to choose which videoconferencing platform to host the shower on. Some common choices include Google Hangouts, Zoom, Skype, or Facebook. Zoom has a built in feature for a gallery view where you can see all attendees videos at once. Google Hangouts also offers this option, but you’ll need your guests to download this free Chrome extension in advance. Whichever one you choose, make sure to test and troubleshoot in advance.
The Invitation
Once you’ve selected your hosting platform, you’ll want to send out a virtual bridal shower invite to all your guests! Check out websites like Paperless Post, Minted, or Evite to create an invitation using one of their templates. If you’re in a rush, you can always send out an email to your guests. Don’t forget to include:
- a link to the session
- a place to RSVP
- Dress code
- a date and time with a timezone label
- any registry information and instructions if you’d like guests to mail gifts before a certain date
- instructions on who to contact if they have technical issues
- any other instructions to follow such as downloading a browser or an extension in advance of the shower
- a schedule or a message about what to expect if you’re planning to have speeches, activities, etc.
Opening Gifts
If you’re planning on watching the couple open gifts, you’ll want to engage your guests since the energy level can drop since everyone isn’t in the same room together. If the guest list is small, you could have the couple guess who each gift is from for a small prize like a Starbucks gift card. You could also email a Bingo card out to everyone in advance with each square being a gift they think the couple received.
Food and Alcohol
If it’s in the budget, put together mini brunch kits to mail to all your guests. Alcohol can add up quickly, so even a mini orange juice and a fun straw could work. You could also send out a drink recipe with the invitation for everyone to make (Just remember to keep it simple!) For the bride, be sure to shower her with her favorites through Doordash or Uber Eats. There’s even companies like Saucey that will deliver alcohol at the exact time you’d like!
Games and Activities
The good news is you can still play a lot of games virtually that you would have played in person! In addition to gift opening Bingo, try playing “What’s In Your Purse?” or play the newlywed game.
If you have a large guest list, you can play “What’s In Your Purse?” by breaking everyone into groups. Zoom has the capability to break your guests into breakout rooms, and then call them back to the larger gathering.
The newlywed game involves asking a question and having your guests write down their answer on a piece of paper. On the count of 3, have everyone hold their paper up to the camera to see all the funny responses!
Are you looking for more assistance with hosting your virtual bridal shower, or need some creative ideas to get started? Click here to learn more about how your Salud wedding planner can help!
