Saddle Blankets and More

Western Bridal Shower Invitations and Western Party Ideas

Interested in a Western themed bridal shower? In the past few years, these have grown quite popular amongst the soon to be wed. The West is romantic and conjures up ideas of freedom and independence. A Western themed party is entertaining and creative. It's a great way to translate the bride's love of the Wild West into a free spirited, fun-lovin', rowdy party.

Western Themed Invitations

Of course the first thing you'll need to consider when planning a Western themed bridal shower is the invitations. These should convey the style of the party you are throwing and if possible, they should match the party favors. Think about a color scheme that fits with the rest of the party. Western themes often conjure up blue, red, yellow and orange. Choose invitations decorated with cowboy hats and horseshoes. Or better yet, design invitations in the shape of a cowboy hat or boot, complete with spurs and all. This is the perfect way to get the guests in the spirit of the party.

The Decorations and Party Favors

Decorations are all important for making sure the party is a hit. You'll want to consider exactly what colors to use and what types of decoration to include. Most importantly, everything should match. Consider a bouquet centerpiece with flowers from western states. For example, you could put together bluebonnets and  lilies; use ropes to tie them together and place them in a boot shaped vase.

To give the place ambience, try converting the room into a saloon or have all the guests dress up in cowboy couture. Hand out cowboy hats as party favors. You could include miniature cowboy shaped snack holders and cowboy boot place markers. Another idea is to place bales of hay or straw around for a more authentic touch. Be sure to liven things up with country music playing in the background. You can even consider handing out country music themed party favors such as key chains and posters.

Food

Of course, the type of food you serve at the bridal shower needs to convey the theme as well. As you choose your menu, consider what types of food are associated with country and Western themes. Think spice, think barbecue, hotdogs, ribs, beans and corn on the cob. Consult cookbooks for more recipe ideas. Or ask the guests to bring their own interpretations of Western style dishes.

Serve the food on stoneware dining sets. Or used mismatched plates and dishes for a more rustic, vintage feel. Include little lassos, cowboy hats, steer, horseshoes, boots with spurs, saddles, bonnets, toy pistols, trains, and barrels etc. as favors. These can be used to decorate napkins, placeholders, glasses, placemats and tablecloths.

For dessert, serve a cowboy shaped cake and instead of punch, try root beer floats. Use novelty shaped ice cubes in keeping with the theme. Additionally, you could place little treats inside bags labeled 'Feed''. Your guests will smile at this quaint party favor, no matter what you put inside.

• aviation lawyer Gary W Harvey

1. Trackman Fitting on December 6, 2011:
   I can tell the writer of this article went above and beyond to research this information. I'm very impressed with your views and writing style.
2. Coverking on February 9, 2012:
   I don't often find articles that express my views and thoughts very well. This article, on the other hand almost has me figured to a tee. This is great content.