How To Throw a Tropical Bridal Shower

How To Throw a Tropical Bridal Shower

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How does one throw a tropical bridal shower? We're glad you asked, because that's what today's post is all about! :) Here at GWS, we're all about making your life simpler, so we're dishing up all the details about decor, decadent delights, cocktails, and more to create an island-inspired interior!

For this gorgeous party, stylist Kimberly Wilder of Black Sweet Raspberry took inspiration from her honeymoon in the lush jungles of Nicaragua. She wanted to create a similar environment of tropical greens, and we think she pulled it off perfectly - especially when we found out that it was held in her home of the Pacific Northwest! Combining the rich textures of tropical florals with a bright, modern bridal shower, Kimberly looked to the talented photographer Maria Lamb to help capture a sunny, warm vacation "getaway".

Sit back + relax as share all you need to know. Now let's travel south of the Equator for a fun and unique bridal shower!

The Decor + Backdrop

You can change the entire mood of the room by adding either large sheets of painted craft paper, or swaths of fabric! Both of those options help frame the space + can add a really fun + funky vibe to the walls.

The backdrop was a labor of love for calligrapher + artist, Marley Beyer. Marley created an oversized, overflowing water color jungle that pulled the entire room together.

Florals, florals, and more florals. Bramble Floral opted for giant monstera leaves, baby pink orchids, a sprinkling of bougainvillea, and punchy pops of sunset-hued flowers. To tie it all together and get the most bang for your buck, make sure to add in a lot of greenery (which typically is less expensive than florals).

Calligraphy quotes are a lovely way to dress up plain white walls! Got a favorite song or mantra? Use it here!

And of course, no decor scheme is complete without plush pillows!

Basically our favorite part... We're major foodies over here at GWS! If you have no idea where to start, don't worry - it's actually not that difficult to put together a delightful spread! This DIY spread is perfect, since everyone can customize their own and it's less prep for you. Also, we LOVE the use of the halved coconuts for the bowl.

What You'll Need:

  • Greek yogurt or vanilla pudding
  • Oats or a delicious granola
  • An assortment of nuts - sliced almonds, chopped walnuts, macadamia nuts
  • Chia seeds
  • Berries - raspberries, strawberries, blueberries
  • For some extra sweetness - brown sugar, agave syrup, or honey

Isn't this the cutest?! (P.S. These are easy clean up... No dish washing required!)

Mini donuts are always a hit! For a light protein dish, small bites of pork belly with a fruity spread make a delicious option.

We think any opportunity you can incorporate a cake - you should. Who doesn't love cake? :) For a tropical-inspired bridal shower, it's only fitting to have one that is filled with fruit! Oh and we're crushing on the way each dish is labeled - so chic!!

The Guest Attire

When you're putting together invitations ( Minted + Wedding Paper Diva have great options) and trying to figure out what to put down for attire, we suggest something like this: pull out that piece you love, but never know what event to wear it to! Or, for something more specific - don a flowing dress that makes you feel like an island goddess. Florals + light, bright colors are encouraged!

Giving off ultimate island vibes, Nai Zhao styled the ladies in long maxi dresses in cream, blush, + floral prints. Makeup artist Kristie Wight kept the gals looking fresh with dewy skin and peachy lips.

How fun are these hairstyles by Ebel Artistry? Perhaps you + your ladies can try out possible looks for the big day during the bridal shower...

The Cocktails

Cocktails are a MUST, and this is the perfect time to whip up something fruity! Feel free to pop a bottle of rosé, too. :)

Flavors to play with include: pineapple, mango, lime, orange, and passionfruit. Basically anything zesty or with a citrus flavor!

Darling Press provided these drink recipe cards, which are a great reminder for your guests to take home + make later!

Using different glasses for each of the different drink recipes is always a sweet touch.

Garnish with mint, fruit, or maybe even a little umbrella!

The Table

For the tablescape, we love the use of teal + bright green, with neutral accents, and pops of gold. This palette reflects the ocean and perfectly rounds out the whole tropical island theme!

A little potted plant at each setting is a welcome 'Thank You' gift!

So bright + airy! For centerpieces, opt for lush florals or go green - as seen here with the monstera leaf!

A huge thank you to the dream team behind this Tropical Bridal Shower! Feeling inspired? We'd love to see your take! Leave us a comment below or tag us on Instagram!

photography: Maria Lamb Photography // event design: Black Sweet Raspberry // planning: Black Sweet Raspberry // florals: Bramble Floral // wedding dress boutique: Wardrobe Stylist - Nai Zhao // hair stylist: Ebel Artistry // makeup artist: Kristie Wight // paper goods: Darling Press // calligraphy: Marly Beyer // catering: White Pepper PDX // cake: Sweet Heart St. Johns // tabletop rentals: Something Borrowed // furniture rentals: Something Borrowed // models: Casey, Mika Rane and Beth Hanna

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