How much does a bridal shower cost? A 25-guest example (2026)
For example, a one-host midday bridal shower with brunch, a mimosa bar, cake, and games for 25 guests typically costs about $1,210 all-in ($48 per guest), including Extra buffer.
That total is about $0 for the room, $450 for the brunch / lunch, $250 for the mimosa / brunch drinks, $100 for the cake, $140 for the decorations, $130 for the games and favors, $40 for the invitations, and $100 for Extra buffer.
Extra buffer is spare money on top if something runs over. It is already inside that $1,210. This example is a one-host midday bridal shower with brunch, a mimosa bar, cake, and games. It is not a baby shower, an engagement party, a bachelorette night, or a plated dinner shower.
The example in one table
This is one mid-range example for the United States. Shares are rounded; the dollars are the source of truth. Source: Project ROI Calc Standard estimate, United States, 2026.
| Line | Dollars | Share of all-in |
|---|---|---|
| Room | $0 | 0% |
| Brunch / lunch | $450 | 37% |
| Mimosa / brunch drinks | $250 | 21% |
| Cake | $100 | 8% |
| Decorations | $140 | 12% |
| Games and favors | $130 | 11% |
| Invitations | $40 | 3% |
| Extra buffer | $100 | 8% |
| All-in | $1,210 | 100% |
Walkthrough
Room — $0
This example leaves Room at $0. Change it on the calculator if you will spend here.
Brunch / lunch — $450
Brunch / lunch is $450 in this example. Change it on the calculator if your quote is different.
Mimosa / brunch drinks — $250
Mimosa / brunch drinks is $250 in this example. Change it on the calculator if your quote is different.
Cake — $100
Cake is $100 in this example. Change it on the calculator if your quote is different.
Decorations — $140
Decorations is $140 in this example. Change it on the calculator if your quote is different.
Games and favors — $130
Games and favors is $130 in this example. Change it on the calculator if your quote is different.
Invitations — $40
Invitations is $40 in this example. Change it on the calculator if your quote is different.
Extra buffer — $100
Extra buffer ($100) is spare money on top if something runs over.
All-in vs per guest
People quote both. All-in ($1,210) is money to have on hand for a one-host midday bridal shower with brunch, a mimosa bar, cake, and games. Per guest ($48) is for comparing catering menus or grocery lists. This page does not add a third “average.”
What would change your number
- A different guest count
- A nicer or simpler brunch / lunch
- A quote you already have from a vendor
Change those amounts on the calculator — do not add a mental extra percent on top of Extra buffer.
Not in this number
- Guest gifts and the host's outfit
- Travel
- Sales tax if a vendor puts it on the invoice
How to use the calculator
- Enter how many guests you are hosting. This example starts at 25.
- Open a cost row and tap a starting-price button, or type the quote you already have.
- Tap Calculate. The all-in and per-guest figures update together.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a 25-guest bridal shower cost?
This example is $1,210 all-in for 25 guests ($48 per guest), including Extra buffer. Extra buffer is spare money on top if something runs over. That is a one-host midday bridal shower with brunch, a mimosa bar, cake, and games.
What is included in this $1,210?
Every line in the table, plus Extra buffer. Items listed under “Not in this number” are left out on purpose.
Do I have to keep Extra buffer?
No. Extra buffer is spare money on top if something runs over. You can lower it or zero it on the calculator. Do not add a mental extra percent on top of it.
What if I invite more guests?
Raise the guest count on the calculator. Food and per-person lines usually move with the list. The $1,210 figure here stays this example.
Related
How much does an engagement party cost?How much does a baby shower cost?All event cost calculators