25 Pretty Bridal Shower Food and Drink Ideas

Traditionally a women-only event where family and close friends give the bride-to-be gifts for her new marital home, the modern bridal shower is a bit more updated. There’s no need to confine the guest list to one gender or to pick a theme that matches your wedding. There is, however, one tradition you’ll want to stick to: keeping guests full and satisfied with a tasty party menu.

“A bridal shower is a time to indulge in all the things the bride loves,” says Alexandria Hammond of Get Plated Catering and Events. “There’s going to be fewer people, and it’s more of a casual setting, so have all of your favorite things.”

Beyond serving what you love, what else should you know about bridal shower food and drink? Read on for Hammond’s expert tips.

Keep the Time of Day in Mind

Choose buffet-style or cocktail service with lighter passed bites and finger foods for a morning or lunchtime shower. Planning for the early evening? "Do something heavier because people are going to be expecting more of a full meal," says Hammond. 

Elevate Your Favorite Plates 

Want to serve your favorite comfort foods? Talk with your caterer; they’ll know how to up the ante by adding unexpected ingredients. “If you want to do tacos, make it the best taco bar that you possibly can,” explains Hammond. “It doesn’t have to be a traditional ground beef. It can be Korean-style short ribs with salsa or pickled veg. Making it more personalized will make it more delectable.”

Get Creative With How You Serve 

There are plenty of ways to showcase a fun focal point for your bridal shower food. Go with a themed cart, like poke or burrata. Get Plated also incorporates interactive elements such as usherette trays (walking raw bars are popular) as well as interactive service elements, including a make-your-own ice cream sandwich bar. "It keeps the conversation going when guests might not know each other," says Hammond.

Skip the Dessert-Only Menu

“I am not a fan of all sweets for a bridal shower or any type of event,” says Hammond. “People need balance.” If you do have more of a sweet tooth, go for dishes that are sweet and savory at the same time. Hammond’s current favorite is a flatbread with whipped goat cheese, balsamic, and strawberries.

Hometown Dishes Are a Great Start

A bridal shower is a celebration with family and friends, so food and drink options that make you feel like you’re back at home are a great way to thematically tie the menu together. For a recent D.C.-themed celebration, Get Plated served mini half-smokes with local beer flights, mini “jumbo” pizza slices, and, in a nod to the nearby Chesapeake, oysters. Added bonus: These dishes help out-of-town guests experience the best the area has to offer.

Be Smart About the Bar Menu  

Alcohol isn’t necessary for a bridal shower, but it doesn’t hurt. “If you’re keeping it lighter in the day, having one or two signature cocktails, along with beer and wine, is totally acceptable,” says Hammond. “If you’re going more into the evening, a full bar is also appropriate.” Themed drinks are also a fun option. Love bourbon? Do a tasting. More of a gin and tonic type? Set out a bar with different types of syrups and citrus. 

In need of some inspiration? Here are 25 delicious dishes, desserts, and drinks to serve.