There are moments in life that feel like they were pulled from a dream—and my bridal shower was exactly that. Romantic, elegant, and draped in the softest hues of ivory, dusty rose and peachy pinks, the day was thoughtfully designed to reflect everything I love: sentimental touches, feminine details, and meaningful moments with the women closest to me.

The Venue: A Setting Straight Out of a Fairytale

Hosted at a private event venue, Ever After Petite Venue in Moorpark, California, that felt like a hidden garden oasis, the setting featured soft stone accents, a flowing waterfall, and a sense of peace that made everything feel extra special. It meant the world to me that my friend, Taylor, the owner of the property, graciously opened up her beautiful space to host us—it created the perfect ambiance for a day I’ll never forget.

Every Detail, So Carefully Considered

The entire day felt cohesive and intentional, thanks to the soft romantic palette and carefully curated decor. I worked with The Kimi Collective to create custom signage that matched my shower invitations—complete with a delicate lacey texture. From the welcome sign and the place cards to the game cards and even a custom shaved ice menu sign, each piece added a layer of softness and style.

The rentals, from Town and Country Event Rentals, brought the entire vision together—especially the rose gold accents, floral plates, blush glassware, and the dreamy draping over the cabanas. The “Cameron” Collection, from Something Borrowed Blooms, of silk florals was an instant yes for me—it perfectly matched my vision and added timeless beauty without worry about wilting blooms. Ivory velvet ruffled linens from Zaffre Fine Linens added texture and warmth to each table, and the cozy lounge setup from My Lovely Events Rentals inside tied in seamlessly with our palette.

And I must shout-out our incredible photographer, Tiffany J Photography, for truly going above and beyond to capture each moment and detail so beautifully. It was so special to have a dear friend by my side all day!

My Bridal Look: Bows, Blush, and All the Bridal Feels

The moment I saw my shower dress at Lili Bridals, I knew it was the one. Designed by Teresa Atelier Bridal, it had the sweetest bows and the most feminine touches—elegant, classy, and so me. Paired with a veil from Ever After Bridal, professional hair and makeup done by Makeup & Hair by Jackie Romero, and a heart full of joy, I truly felt like a bride. That was the main goal for this day—to feel like a bride and celebrate with the women who’ve supported me throughout my life.

Sentimental Moments and Meaningful Games

We added some light-hearted fun to the day with two shower games that brought both laughs and reflective moments. First up: a crowd favorite—the toilet paper dress challenge, where guests got creative designing "wedding gowns" out of rolls of toilet paper (the results were hilarious and impressive!)

Then, we played a sentimental photo game where guests had to guess where the location was in the photos of Ryan and I. Each image told a story, and at the end, Ryan made a surprise appearance to announce the answers! It was such a sweet way to include him in the day and made the moment extra memorable.

One of the most special parts of the day was when I dedicated a song to my mom on the saxophone by Ant Smith Music—a small token of appreciation for the love and effort she put into hosting this incredible shower for me. It was emotional and beautiful, and something I’ll treasure forever.

Treats, Toasts & Thoughtful Touches

From the custom cake by Skiff’s Cakes that perfectly matched my aesthetic, to the bespoke desserts by Sugar Klay, made just for me, everything was as delicious as it was beautiful. We also had Bernie’s Granita Shaved Ice Cart, which added such a fun, fresh touch (and the custom signage for the shaved ice was just chef’s kiss). A charming balloon display, from Creative Balloons by Cathy, surrounded their bubbly cart, bringing a whimsical yet polished feel to the space. For entertainment, a live saxophonist, Ant Smith Music, played throughout the day, adding a classy, ambient soundtrack that elevated the whole event.

Another highlight was receiving my beautiful bridal trunk made by Petite Keep from my Mother-In-Law—a stunning keepsake that now holds some of my favorite memories and heirlooms from the shower and wedding day.

A Little Rain and a Whole Lot of Gratitude

Now here’s the part you didn’t see: the morning of my shower, it was pouring rain. Like, full-on downpour on and off throughout the morning. Everything was planned for outdoors, and it felt like the day might be ruined. But thanks to the most incredible vendor team and my amazing family, we made it work. Drapes were tied, chairs were dried off, tables were reset, and just as guests began to arrive… the skies mostly cleared.

It was a true miracle. And while it was a stressful morning behind the scenes, it ended in the most magical way. Beyond the gorgeous florals and stunning dress, it was the feeling of the day that meant the most—being surrounded by love, laughter, and the women who’ve shaped my life.

I’m so grateful for everyone who helped bring this day to life. It was romantic, pretty, pink, and perfectly me—a celebration I’ll cherish forever.

Advice to Future Brides: Plan With Heart

If you're planning your bridal shower, here's the advice I’d give:

Make it feel like you - It doesn’t need to follow trends—it should reflect who you are and what you love.

Pre-plan for weather conditions - Especially if your shower is all outdoors. Have a backup plan ready.

Lean on your people and vendors - Those who offer to help truly want to. Let them support you.

Choose meaningful details - A favorite dessert, a sentimental game, a special piece of music—anything that adds your personal touch.

Our Vendor Team

As Seen On The White Wren!

Venue: Ever After Petite Venue || Planning & Management: To Be Loved Events || Photography: Tiffany J Photography || Content Creator: Your Content Diaries || Floral Design: Something Borrowed Blooms || Stationery & Signs: The Kimi Collective || Bubbly Cart & Balloons: Creative Balloons by Cathy || Hair & Makeup: Makeup & Hair by Jackie Romero || Dress: Lili Bridals || Dress Designer: Teresa Atelier || Veil: Ever After Bridal || Rentals: Town and Country Event Rentals || Lounge: My Lovely Events || Linens: Zaffre Fine Linens || Granita Shaved Ice: Bernie’s Los Angeles || Saxophonist: Ant Smith Music || Cake: Skiff’s Cakes || Desserts: Sugar Klay || Keepsake Trunk: Petite Keep || Service Staff: Smoking Gun Bar Staffing || Ring Boxes: The Mrs Box || Ring: Jean Dousset

Samantha’s Romantic Pink Bridal Shower with Sentimental Details