Create a tropical feel with a themed party.
Bridal showers are a traditional part of an American wedding celebration, but that doesn't mean the party itself has to follow tradition. A tropical theme makes for a festive and memorable party that your guests and the bride-to-be will appreciate. You don't have to go overboard on a theme if you have a limited budget or time---just a few ideas will do.
Food & Drinks
Tropical cocktails such as pina coladas are perfect for a tropical theme. Pink flamingo cocktail stirrers and paper umbrella toothpicks will dress up the drinks. Make iced tea with hibiscus tea, a dash of apple juice and a mint sprig, for a tropical twist on a party classic. Fruit, seafood and barbecued pork or chicken topped with pineapple make festive snacks. If you plan on serving cake, buy or make one in a tropical shape such as a palm tree, a sandal or a flamingo. For something different, swap the cake for fruit sorbets, fresh fruit kabobs dipped in chocolate or a chocolate fountain.
Decorating
For an outdoor party, tiki torches are a must. If bugs are an issue, light citronella candles around the area. If you have a pool, have your guests bring bathing suits and place floating candles in the pool before guests arrive. Remove the candles when the swimming starts. Whether indoor or out, decorate with paper or inflatable palm trees, paper lanterns, and pink, white or blue Christmas lights.
Favors
One way to find tropical party favors is to browse a party or dollar store. Look for plastic or silk flower leis, hula skirts, coconut or flower bras, tropical drink stirrers, floral printed totes or beach towels, seashell necklaces and anything that fits your theme. Any beach-related trinket can become a fun party favor, so get creative. If you wish, greet each guest at the door with a silk or fresh flower for her hair and a lei.
Games
In addition to traditional bridal shower games, lead activities such as a beach costume contest and limbo. "Pass the Coconut" is a game played as "Hot Potato," but substitute a coconut for the potato.
Tags: tropical theme, your guests