Choosing the Theme

• The theme is arguably the most important part of a bridal shower. It sets the tone for the party and dictates what type of decorations, entertainment and menu will be involved.
  
  The most timeless and classic type of bridal shower the elegant bridal shower. An elegant bridal shower is sophisticated, classy and understated. The decorations are stylish, the menu is full of mature and indulgent treats, and the venue is posh but comfortable.
  
  There's are many themes that fit an elegant bridal shower. A martini shower is great for the cocktail-loving bride and can include tastings of a number of different martinis. Tea party bridal showers are a perennial favorite, with the guests sipping tea and nibbling on sophisticated snacks. A wine and cheese tasting shower is the epitome of elegance.
  
  No matter what theme you choose for your elegant bridal shower, the most important element is to maintain a high-class ambiance. Make it an adults-only party and keep the decorations tasteful and somewhat muted.
  
  

Selecting the Location

• Just about any setting can be ideal for an elegant bridal shower. Traditionally, the bridal shower is held in the hostess' home, but it can take place in any number of locations. A swanky restaurant can provide the perfect environment, especially if it offers a private party room, dedicated wait staff and a decadent menu. An upscale bar is a similarly ideal location. The low lighting, indulgent cocktails and overall ritzy environment lend an air of contemporary elegance to the bridal shower. Even a local botanical garden can be a fitting location for an elegant bridal shower. Surrounding the bride and her guests with lush vegetation in a private party room gives the shower a smart and luxurious feel.
  
  The bride's tastes should be the top consideration when choosing the location. If she prefers intimate gatherings with just a few close friends, the setting should be cozy and uncluttered. If the bride is a social butterfly who loves the spotlight, consider renting a section of her favorite restaurant or other sophisticated venue where she can invite a larger group of friends and family.
  
  

Decorating the Space

• No matter where the bridal shower is held, the right decorations can make any space special. For an elegant bridal shower, the decorations should be mature and understated, not bright and playful. Start off with bunches of flowers in the wedding colors. A small vase of flowers on each table works well. Decorate the walls with drapes of luxurious fabric in the main wedding color and accent them with small silk flowers or strings of plastic beads in a contrasting color. Drape the tables with the same fabric to tie the room together.
  
  

The Menu

• The menu is one of the most exciting parts of planning an elegant bridal shower. There are many options, depending on the time of day the party will be held, the location and of course the bride's tastes. A popular choice is the brunch party, where the bride and her guests gather in the late morning to enjoy decadent cocktails and traditional brunch foods. The menu can be full, consisting of waffles, omelets and pastries; or simple, with finger foods like mini quiches and toast points with cream cheese and salmon.
  
  A coffee and dessert menu is elegant yet understated. The desserts should be indulgent, but not heavy enough to make the guests uncomfortably full. Rich chocolate mousse served in champagne flutes, elaborately decorated mini cakes and mouth-watering truffles are ideal dessert choices.
  
  An afternoon tea party is another timeless, sophisticated theme for an elegant bridal shower. Offer a variety of teas along with light afternoon fare like finger sandwiches and small pastries.