Planning a bridal shower usually starts with excitement and quickly turns into questions. Where will everyone sit? Who handles the food? What is already included? When families host bridal showers with us at The Preston Barn, they are usually looking for a clear path forward, not more decisions to juggle. This guide walks you through how a bridal shower comes together here, step by step, so you know what to expect and what we handle for you.
A Step by Step Way to Plan Your Bridal Shower at The Preston Barn
At The Preston Barn, we understand that hosting a bridal shower should be a fun and memorable experience, not a stressful one. Our goal is to make the planning process as smooth as possible by guiding you through each step, ensuring everything falls into place without unnecessary complications.
Step One: Start With Your Guest Count
The first decision is how many people you plan to invite. This helps shape how the barn is arranged for your bridal shower. For these events, the space includes ten rustic farm tables that create a warm, welcoming setup for gathering, dining, and opening gifts.
If your guest list grows beyond what the farm tables comfortably seat, we can add round tables while still keeping the farm tables in the layout. This keeps the room feeling connected rather than split into separate areas.
Step Two: Set the Layout With Our Team
Once your guest count is clear, we work with you on the seating layout. Floor plans and seating arrangements are coordinated by our team, so you do not need to measure the room or guess how things will fit.
Because bridal showers often include moments like gift opening or short speeches, the layout is designed to keep sightlines open and guests comfortable throughout the event.
Step Three: Plan a Buffet Style Meal
For bridal showers, food is provided through our in house catering team at Old Drovers Inn and served buffet style. This service style works well for daytime celebrations and mixed age groups, allowing guests to move at their own pace. Menus are chef customized and prepared in our commercial kitchen.
Step Four: Know What Is Already Included
One of the biggest reliefs for hosts is knowing what they do not need to bring. When you host a bridal shower in the barn, tables, chairs, linens, flatware, china, and glassware are provided. Napkin and linen color options are available, which helps you personalize the look without renting additional items.
Interior guest restrooms are located inside the barn, and heat and air conditioning are provided year round so guests stay comfortable in any season.
Step Five: Understand Who Supports You on the Day
From your first visit through the end of your bridal shower, an on site coordinator is part of your event. This person helps guide the setup, answers questions as the day takes place, and keeps things running smoothly behind the scenes.
Food and beverage service is handled by our in house staff, so communication stays simple and consistent throughout the event.
Step Six: Enjoy the Celebration Without Managing Details
Once the day arrives, your role shifts from planning to celebrating. With the layout set, food service organized, and staff in place, hosts are free to focus on the bride, the guests, and the reason everyone gathered.
That ease is what many families tell us they value most about hosting a bridal shower here.
A Place to Gather
The Preston Barn is located in Dover Plains, New York, at Old Drovers Inn. Families often bring guests from across the Hudson Valley, Westchester, Long Island, and New York City. Parking is available across from the Inn, with handicap parking adjacent to the barn for easy access.
If you are ready to begin planning, we invite you to schedule a tour. We are happy to walk through your ideas and help you take the next step.
FAQs
Can I personalize the table and linen colors for my bridal shower?
Yes. The Preston Barn provides napkin and linen color options so you can match your theme without renting additional items.
Is the barn available for setup the day before the bridal shower?
Yes. With the weekend use option, the barn can be set up the day before, giving you more time to arrange tables, decor, and seating.
Are restrooms available for all guests during the event?
Interior guest restrooms are located inside the barn for all bridal shower guests.
Can additional tables be added if more guests RSVP?
Yes. Beyond the ten rustic farm tables, round tables can be added to accommodate extra guests while keeping the layout comfortable and connected.