When it comes to showers (bridal, baby, whatever), we’re extremely partial to a low-key backyard celebration. Why? Because they’ve got intimacy and personality in spades—and honestly, who doesn’t love a cocktail alfresco? If a loved one of yours has a shower-able milestone comin’ up, here’s all the inspiration you’ll need to host a casually chic—and totally fabulous—little shindig.
Everything You Need to Host a Backyard Shower
![floral envelope invitation](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2019/05/floral-envelope-invitation.jpg?fit=680%2C489)
The Invites
Leave the group texts and email chains to discussing The Bachelorette. Send a pretty, legit invitation (whether digital or via snail mail) as the first order of business.
![bridal shower outfits](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2019/05/bridal-shower-outfits.jpg?fit=680%2C489)
The Dress Code
Setting a dress code (e.g., “garden party”) adds another layer of festiveness to the day. Guests will appreciate some dressing directive—and the guest of honor will appreciate the cute, coordinated group pics.
![baby shower chair decor](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2019/05/baby-shower-chair-decor.jpg?fit=680%2C860)
The Decor
Think like an event planner and pick a theme and color palette for your party—then hit up your local craft store for an assortment of borderline #extra décor. For an outdoor setting, we love seat swags, paper lanterns hung from tree branches and our perennial party favorite: twinkly lights.
The Refreshments
Our favorite fix on the drinks front? A signature event cocktail in an easy, self-serve format. For a daytime affair, consider offering something light and fresh (and way more fun than your standard bubbly), like this big-batch white sangria recipe with a delicious DOLE® 100% Canned Pineapple Juice base.
![cake bars sprinkles](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2019/05/cake-bars-sprinkles.jpg?fit=680%2C860)
The Food
Want to shell out on a fancy caterer? Do you, girl. But honestly, we’re huge proponents of a potluck format for informal affairs. As the guests RSVP, use a spreadsheet to keep track of the yummy dishes they are bringing.
![diy flower arrangements](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2019/05/diy-flower-arrangements.jpg?fit=680%2C489)
The Florals
Hot tip: Skip the florist tab and put your cohosts to work. All you need are a few bunches of grocery store blooms and some salvaged mason jars or glass bottles to whip up lovely, appropriate centerpieces.
![baby onesie painting](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2019/05/baby-onesie-painting.jpg?fit=680%2C489)
The Games
If ever there were a time for adults to indulge in an afternoon of games, it’s at a shower. Etsy has a huge selection of low-lift printables if coming up with games isn’t really your thing—but you can also scour Pinterest for an interactive activity, like this adorable onesie painting station.
![woman opening shower gifts](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2019/05/woman-opening-shower-gifts.jpg?fit=680%2C860)
The R.o.s.
No need to get granular, but mapping out a general run-of-show for the day will help things flow and feel organized. (P.S. If unwrapping gifts on-site, make sure to designate someone to keep a diligent list of who gave what.)
![party favor mini honey](https://publish.purewow.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2019/05/party-favor-mini-honey.jpg?fit=680%2C860)
The Favors
Lastly, don’t forget to send guests home with something special to remember the day. You don’t have to break the bank: A favorite snack or trinket of the mother-to-be/bride/whatever