How to have a shower with a limited budget

Esther's Bridal Shower

Last year, Esther a very good friend of mine got married. I was honored to be a part of her bridal party. 3 other girls and myself hosted her bridal shower in her home. As most of you know, being a bridesmaid is often expensive and time consuming. But more importantly, as a bridesmaid the bride's happiness is most important when planning such an event. You don't want to skimp out on your friend and her big day, but you also have to take into consideration all the finances that are involved in making both the future bride and all the bridesmaid happy. So....

First thing first, you will want to discuss a budget with your fellow bridesmaids... We ended up having a pretty tight budget. 

Here are some money saving ideas...

I made a towel cake... you can buy decent quality towels for approx $30.00 at Marshall's. A great place to buy ribbons is bbcrafts.com (approx. $40.00)

I also made water bottle labels (thanks to my friend Michelle who gave me her already made template). ($5.00 for water and paper)

For shopping- Costco and Trader Joe's were the places to buy bulk and tasty goods.

Things that I purchased from Costco...

- 3 chicken salads from the deli section ($9.99/pack)

- 1 pack of croissants ($5.99)

- Madeleines ($6.99/pack)

- Three cheese tortellini ($8.99 pack)

- Brownies ($6.99)

- Cheese ($18.00 for 2 types)

-Vegetable Platter ($9.99/pack)

- Pesto (8.99)

Things I purchased from Trader Joe's

- Appetizers (sausage pups, mini quiches) $40.00 for 4 packs

- 6 Bottled drinks- ($2.99/each)

- 3 Packs of Scones ($4.99/pack)

- Hydrangeas ($40.00 for 4 bunches)

Susina Cake has one of the best berry cakes in town- $35.00

Of course there were other expenses... which I can't remember at this time. We spent approximately $350-$400 between the 4 of us.

The cutouts were made using my Cricut- a great crafting tool to have to make perfect cut outs for every occasion. www.cricutmachine.com has great prices.

To Esther, I can't wait until I have the chance of hosting your baby shower. I've got so many new ideas... I'm ready to execute when you are. :) Much grander than your bridal shower. It was my very first shower that I got to throw, I am much more experienced now, I can't wait to honor you and your baby when that time comes. :) Love you!