Someone close to you is getting married and you wish to throw a bridal shower for them. What next? Here are some ideas and tips to help you through.

First up, choose a date and time. Unless it is a surprise, consult the bride to be to find a date suitable to her schedule. The most appropriate time table is four to six weeks before the wedding. If most of the planned guests work, a weekend shower would be the best course of action. Everyone will be more relaxed, less rushed and apt to enjoy themselves. A Saturday may work better to accommodate guests that attend church on Sundays. Select a time that will allow guests time to ready themselves in the morning, yet not cut into evening plans. Afternoons seem to be the most popular choice. Plan for an hour and a half to two hours.

Send out invitations two to three weeks in advance. This will allow guests to clear their schedules and find the perfect gift. Include any special instructions, directions and contact numbers.

Once times and the date are chosen, the next consideration is location. Keep in mind the number of guests, type of party, the budget and times. Some ideas include a private residence, apartment clubhouse, restaurant or community center. Keep in mind whether reservations and a deposit are required. Also ask what time you will be allowed in. Some locations will give you extra time to decorate and set up, others will not. Agree on the time you need the building or room accordingly.

If you have co-hosts, now is the time to get together and make some decisions. Do you plan to have a theme? Plan decorations, favors, games and food around it. A theme can even extend to the invitations and name tags! Letting the guests in on the fun, they may have instant gift ideas. Once a theme, or lack of one, has been decided, it will make planning much easier from here on out.

For the guest list, anyone on the wedding guest list may be included. If you lack space and funds, shorten your list to close friends and family.

Decide on the food that will be served. Plan a menu beforehand so that you may compare prices and quality. Sample all food items if you are ordering or having the party catered. This will save unnecessary embarrassment at the last minute. If you have placed an order well in advance, contact the caterer or store the week of the shower to solidify arrangements. And whatever you do, dont forget the cake!

Games should be fun to plan and simple to do. Choose games that match the theme. There are books as well as websites with a multitude of game ideas.

Once the date arrives, you may enlist some of the guests to assist. Ask one or two to be in charge of the games. Have another record gifts and keep track of the cards. They will feel included and you will have more time to enjoy your efforts. Relax, put on a smile and have fun!