Bridal Luncheon Ideas: Themes, Invitations, Menus, and More

EventsWeddings

February 26, 2024

A table with gifts from the bride to her bridal party

Bridal Luncheon Ideas: Themes, Invitations, Menus, and More

A bridal luncheon is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the bridal party in a more intimate setting before the big day. From elegant themes to delicious menus and fun games, there are many ways to make the bridal luncheon memorable.

Bridal Luncheon Themes

Table set up for bridal luncheon on bright summer day with flowers and vintage tea cups on each plate

1 | Garden Party

Embrace the beauty of nature with a garden-themed luncheon. Decorate with floral arrangements, pastel colors, and rustic touches like wooden tables and vintage tea sets. Share your theme with guests so they can don their favorite floral outfits and big floppy hats to bring the theme full circle.

2 | Parisian Chic

Transport guests to the streets of Paris with a French-inspired theme. Think Eiffel Tower centerpieces, macarons, and chic décor reminiscent of a Parisian café. This theme is perfect for a group who wants to dress up and celebrate the joie de vivre together.

3 | Boho Bash

Create a laid-back, bohemian vibe with eclectic decorations, floor cushions, and dreamcatchers. Incorporate natural elements like feathers, greenery, and woven textiles for a whimsical atmosphere.

Bridal Luncheon Invitations

Stylish printing at the wedding ceremony, beautiful details and decor with flowers and rings. Wedding and bridal luncheon invitations made by hand with calligraphy

1| Paper Invitations

Paper invitations lend a touch of elegance to any event, but they require more forethought than digital invites. Send out elegant paper invitations with details of the luncheon, including date, time, location, and RSVP information, at least four weeks before the event to ensure all your guests are aware of this special gratitude celebration. 

2 | Digital Invites

Opt for digital invitations for a more eco-friendly and convenient option. You can create digital invites on a whim, and they are a much more affordable option (often free) for your invite needs. Websites like Canva offer customizable templates for bridal luncheon invitations. Services like E-vite give you easy options for the design and distribution of your invitations.

Bridal Luncheon Menu Ideas

Bridal Luncheon Buffet Brunch Spread laid out on a buffet line with guests grabbing food for their plates in the background.

1 | Light and Fresh

Offer a selection of salads, sandwiches, and fruit platters for a refreshing and easy-to-eat menu. We suggest a light and fresh menu for a garden party or if you are hosting the day of your wedding while your party is getting ready.

2 | Afternoon Tea

Serve a traditional afternoon tea with an assortment of finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and a variety of teas. It is an elegant and fun menu. Afternoon tea is a great option to serve while you and your bridal party get ready before the celebration. It also works beautifully for a Boho Bash or Garden Party.

3 | Brunch Buffet

Set up a buffet with brunch favorites like quiches, pastries, fruit, and mimosas for a relaxed and indulgent meal. Brunch buffets work well for any palate since there is something for even the pickiest eaters. It also goes well with any theme. Think Parisian brunch! Crepes, pastries, and delicious drinks are all you need to align this menu with your theme. 

Gifts For Luncheon Guests

A table with gifts from the bride to her bridal party

1 | Personalized Keepsakes

Consider giving personalized gifts such as monogrammed jewelry, custom photo frames, or engraved glassware that your loved ones can cherish forever. The bridal party will appreciate something they can wear at the wedding. It will align the thoughtful gift with their memory of the day and help alleviate some of the cost since you will be taking care of part of their outfit.

2 | Spa Day 

Treat your bridal party to manicures, pedicures, or hair and makeup to include pampering as part of the wedding prep for them. 

Planning Tips

Hands Holding Wedding Planner Checklist Information Preparation

1 | Start Early

Begin planning the bridal luncheon well in advance to secure the venue, send out invitations, and make any necessary arrangements. The earlier you begin to prepare, the more time you will have to plan all of the details for the perfect day. We suggest having a conversation about your luncheon with your venue at booking to see if they can host this event for you. At The Centre, we have spaces perfect for an intimate bridal luncheon event. 

2 | Delegate Tasks

Enlist the help of friends to assist with planning and execution, from decorating to organizing games. If you have a wedding planner or a venue that can help with some of these details, it will help alleviate some of the stress of planning an additional event. 

3 | Consider the Party’s Preferences 

Keep the bridal party’s tastes and preferences in mind when selecting the theme, menu, and activities to ensure the event reflects their personality and style. Thoughtful touches and careful planning will take this gratitude party from good to great. 

By incorporating these ideas, you can create a memorable bridal luncheon that celebrates the people who have supported the bride in style. Whether you opt for a sophisticated garden party or a laid-back boho bash, the key is to tailor the event to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere for guests to enjoy.