Paint And Sip Bridal Shower Ideas For The Creative Bride
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Gone are the days when you would attend a ho-hum bridal shower. You know the ones. You arrive. You eat. You play a couple of games. You watch the bride-to-be open her gifts, perhaps sharing an ooh or an ahh or secretly wishing it was your shower and it was your gift. You hug. And you head out on your way.
Today’s bridal showers have taken on a whole new approach, with brides and their bride tribes coming up with the most unique shower themes. From lingerie showers to wine tours to just about anything in between, today’s showers are fun and unique, creating a day that will go down in the history books.
And one of our favorite themes here at Modern MOH is the paint and sip bridal shower. Are you intrigued? Read on and we’ll tell you all you need—and want—to know about creating the most amazing painting bridal shower ever.
Choosing the Right Venue for Your Paint and Sip Bridal Shower
One of the biggest challenges in planning any bridal shower is space. While many bridal showers are hosted in homes, not everyone has a home large enough to fit all these guests, especially when they are in full-on celebration mode. That’s just one of the reasons that destination—albeit close destination—bridal showers have become so popular. And venues are popping up all over the place that offer rental spaces for bridal parties and showers of any size.
But what should you look for in the right venue for your paint-and-sip bridal shower? Well, the first thing to look for is to see if there is a business that offers these types of events in your local community. You might be surprised by what you find. That said, if you don’t find one of these ready-made shops available for you to use, no worries! There are plenty of other options.
When searching for the right space, keep the following in mind:
- Space: How many guests are you expecting? Whether you’re looking for cozy and intimate or big and bustling, you’ll need enough room for everyone to comfortably sip and paint without elbowing each other mid-stroke!
- Ambiance: Does the venue vibe match the bride’s style? Whether she’s a boho queen or chic and modern, you’ll want a space that sets the perfect mood for painting and sipping the day away.
- Convenience: Think about location. Is it easy for guests to get to? Parking is also key. Plus, check if the venue is equipped with everything you need—tables, chairs, and the all-important wine glasses!
In-Studio Events vs. Mobile Paint-and-Sip Parties
Now, the fun part—in-studio events vs. mobile paint-and-sip parties:
- In-Studio Events: These are so easy to plan because the setup is already done for you. Plus, you’ll have all the paint supplies, canvases, and aprons ready to go, and typically, an artist will guide the group through your masterpiece.
- Mobile Paint-and-Sip Parties: If you prefer a more personalized setting, these are great for bringing the party to you—whether that’s at someone’s home, backyard, or even a rented venue. The best part? You control the vibe, the snacks, and how much wine everyone’s pouring!
Pros and Cons: Hosting at Home vs. A Dedicated Studio Space
Hosting in your own home has its perks—you can decorate as much as you like, there’s no time limit, and guests can feel relaxed and comfortable. Plus, there are fewer limitations in terms of the time of day. Want a paint night? No problem. Want your event in the morning? No problem—mimosas, anyone? But… do you really want to deal with the cleanup afterward? Plus, space can be tight depending on the guest list.
On the other hand, a dedicated studio or external venue keeps things easy. You get more space, professional help, and the relief that someone else will handle the post-party mess. However, it might come with extra costs and less control over the little details. It’s all about finding the right fit for your bride’s vision!
Selecting a Theme and Style
Now, it’s time to think about the theme within the theme. You’ve already decided that a painting bridal shower is the way to go, but just what is it that you are going to paint? Here’s what we’ll tell you—don’t overthink it, but make it fun.
So many maids-of-honor, especially first-time maids-of-honor, get hung up trying to decide the picture-perfect painting that will look amazing displayed in the home of every guest. But here’s the thing. First, it’s about having fun. Second, you’re drinking wine! Does it really matter if you create the next work of Van Gogh or Frida Kahlo? Of course not!
Here are some themes within your theme to think about—how’s that for some alliteration?
- Floral Delights: Who doesn’t love flowers? Whether it’s wildflowers, roses, or the bride’s wedding bouquet, floral themes are a hit and let everyone’s creative side bloom!
- Abstract Fun: If the bridal party leans a little more artsy, go for abstract designs. Offer up some acrylic paints and let everyone splash color onto the canvas in a way that reflects their own unique style—no rules here!
- Couple-Inspired Creations: Think “His and Hers” portraits, love birds perched on a branch, or another popular option—a romantic sunset. These fun ideas will have the bridal party painting the couple’s love story in some highly unique and expressive ways.
MODERN MOH TIP: Align the painting theme with the wedding vibe. If the bride’s wedding is classic and elegant, try softer, more romantic themes like wedding bouquets. For a bold wedding, go abstract! It’s all about having fun and making the bride’s day even more special.
Artsy Invitations and Decorations
With your bridal shower party theme and venue squared away, it’s time to get those invitations figured out and in the mail. And here is where you can be so creative! And, if you aren’t the creative type, this is where sites like Etsy can be a huge help.
Don’t think “Paint and Sip” is your vibe? How about “Canvas and Cocktails? Or “Brushes and Bubbly”, or even “Paint and Pour”? The options are endless! You’ll even find downloadable templates that you can modify, especially if you want to incorporate hints of the intended painting into the invitation. We’ve listed some of our favorites below:
And next up—decorations. Here are some ideas to help you get started.
- Mini Easels: Use them as name card holders or table markers. They’re a cute and artsy touch that ties in perfectly with the painting theme.
- Paint-Splattered Tablecloths: Set the scene with colorful, paint-splattered tablecloths or runners that make the room feel like an art studio.
- Themed Balloons: Go for pastel or bold-colored balloons that match the bride’s wedding palette or the chosen painting theme. Add paintbrush accents for extra flair!
- Canvas Backdrops: Create a fun photo booth area with a large blank canvas where guests can leave painted handprints or sweet messages for the bride. And of course to take pictures to show off their creations!
Incorporating Sips and Snacks
We’ve talked a lot about the painting side of this bridal shower, but let’s be honest, the drink is where it’s at! So let’s talk about favorite beverages for your paint and sip event. Remember, you want to make sure you have options. And though you will encourage guests to imbibe responsibly, you want to make sure you have some snacks and other goodies to help keep those hunger pains at bay.
Whether you’re planning a brunch or a night of painting, choosing the right food will be sure to help create those unforgettable memories you are going for. Here are some recommendations for some amazing food and beverage pairings to complement your paint-and-sip bridal shower.
Beverage Options
- Wine: Offer a variety of reds, whites, and rosés to suit everyone’s taste.
- Champagne: Why not plan a toast to the bride before everyone dons their aprons and brushes?
- Cocktails: Consider fun signature cocktails that tie into the bride’s theme or personality—like a “Blushing Bride” mimosa or fruity sangria.
- Non-Alcoholic Drinks: For guests who prefer a booze-free option, have sparkling water, flavored lemonades, or mocktails ready to sip!
Snack Ideas
- Cheese Platters: A variety of cheeses, crackers, and fruits pairs perfectly with wine and even many cocktails. And what special occasion would be complete without a cheese board, right?
- Finger Foods: Keep it easy with bite-sized snacks like mini sandwiches, bruschetta, or charcuterie cups—no one wants to juggle a plate and a paintbrush!
- Sweet Treats: Mini cupcakes or macarons can add a pop of color and sweetness to the spread.
- Cake: We say, let them eat cake! A cake is a fun addition to every art experience, whether it’s combined with a sip experience or not. So, see what type of cake the bride-to-be and her bride tribe like, and be sure to add it to the menu.
Setting Up the Painting and Sip Supplies
The day of the painting bridal shower is almost here—yay! It’s about time to partay!! And since you already did so much work with the themes and getting those decorations planned in advance, all you need to do is get set up. But first, you need some supplies, and some important ones at that. You also want to make sure that you plan for spacing.
The goal here is to create a space for each guest that gives them plenty of room not just to see the instructor or main piece of art, but to work their magic and have some fun while doing so. Here are a few tips to follow to make sure everyone has the space they need to paint and sip, sip and paint, sip, sip—well, you get the picture (see what we did there?).
Here’s what to plan for.
- Instructor or DIY?: You can hire a professional instructor to guide everyone’s inner artists step-by-step through the painting, or, if you’re feeling adventurous, find a YouTube tutorial and DIY the fun! Either way, it’s all about having a blast.
- Essential Supplies for a Home Paint Party: Stock up on canvases, a variety of paints, brushes, aprons to keep outfits clean, and table covers to catch any artistic spills.
- Fun Painting Surfaces: Switch it up! In addition to canvases, try wood signs for a rustic touch, wine glasses to sip from after, or even ceramics for something unique to take home.
When you plan right, the creativity will flow! And just wait until you see what your guests will create. It’ll be sure to add plenty of oohs, ahhs, and wild laughter, that’s for sure.
Adding Fun and Personal Touches
Last but not least, let’s talk about those personal touches that can make a shower the best it can be. This is where some of those more traditional things come into play, too.
We’re talking bridal shower games, background music, and some fun keepsakes that guests—bridesmaids, family members, and friends alike—can take away to remember their day. In addition to their brilliant pieces of completed artwork, of course. Because who wouldn’t be excited about taking home their own masterpiece?
Game Ideas
- Couple Trivia: While the paint dries, play trivia about the bride or couple—ask fun questions and see who knows them best!
- “Guess the Painting” Challenge: Before everyone begins, keep the final painting a secret and have guests guess what they’ll be creating based on some clues. The winner gets a prize!
- Paint and Sip Bingo: Create bingo cards with fun bridal or painting-related terms like “first spill,” “wine glass refill,” or “creative masterpiece.”
Background Music
Set the mood with a personalized playlist of the bride’s favorite songs or tunes that fit the vibe of the event—think chill acoustic covers or upbeat love songs. Add a fun twist by mixing in instrumental versions of popular songs for a classy, relaxed atmosphere.
Favors
One of the benefits of a painting party is that the theme has a built-in keepsake for the guests to take home! But if you want to hand out some other thank you favors to the guests, you’re more than welcome to do that too, and they’ll definitely be appreciated.
It’s easy to stay on theme, with any art or wine-themed items, such as wine charms or corks. And candy or chocolate always goes down well!
Wine Charms
Wine Corks
Chocolate Bar Labels
Create a Paint-and-Sip Experience that You and the Gals Will Remember Forever
Whether you came up with the idea for a casual gathering complete with wine and painting or added some fun and unusual entertainment, your private paint-and-sip bridal shower party will be sure to create an everlasting bond between you and all of your guests.
And know that these fun ideas we have shared are great for birthdays, baby showers—perhaps sans the wine and spirits—the perfect bachelorette party, or even just a ladies’ night to help relax before the big day arrives.
Did you host a memorable paint experience for the bride in your life? Share your experience with us on Instagram at @modernmoh. We’d love to see all the photos from your private paint parties, or however you decided to celebrate the bride-to-be. So, cheers and happy painting!
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