What Is the What’s In The Purse Bridal Shower Game and How Do You Play It?
Planning a bridal shower that’s both fun and memorable often means incorporating games that spark laughter, conversation, and friendly competition. One popular choice that never fails to entertain guests is the “What’s In The Purse” bridal shower game. This game taps into the everyday items women carry, turning them into a playful challenge that brings everyone together, making it a perfect icebreaker or highlight of the celebration.
At its core, the “What’s In The Purse” game invites guests to explore the contents of their handbags, awarding points for common and quirky items alike. It’s a lighthearted way to learn more about each other’s habits and personalities, all while keeping the energy lively and engaging. Whether your crowd is competitive or just looking for some casual fun, this game adapts well to various bridal shower themes and group dynamics.
As you dive deeper into the details of the “What’s In The Purse” bridal shower game, you’ll discover how simple it is to set up and customize. From scoring ideas to creative twists, this game offers plenty of opportunities to personalize the experience and ensure everyone leaves with smiles—and maybe a few surprises about what’s hiding in their own purse.
How to Prepare for the Game
Preparing for the “What’s In The Purse” bridal shower game involves a few key steps to ensure smooth gameplay and maximum engagement. First, decide whether you want to customize the list of items based on the bride’s personality or stick to a classic set of common purse items. Personalization often makes the game more fun and meaningful for guests.
Next, create a detailed list of items that guests will check against their purses. This list can be printed on cards or sheets for each participant. It’s helpful to categorize items by commonality or point value to add strategic depth.
Gather necessary materials such as:
- Printed lists or score sheets
- Pens or pencils for each guest
- Small prizes for winners
- A timer (optional) to keep the game paced
Consider the number of guests and the available time to tailor the length of the game. For larger groups, you might want to limit the number of items to maintain energy and attention.
Sample Item List with Point Values
Assigning point values to items based on their rarity or uniqueness makes the game competitive and exciting. Common items might score fewer points, while unusual or unexpected items earn higher points. This system encourages guests to think creatively about what they carry daily.
| Item | Point Value | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Lipstick or Lip Balm | 1 | Common cosmetic item found in most purses |
| Hand Sanitizer | 2 | Useful for hygiene, especially post-pandemic |
| Mini Sewing Kit | 3 | Less common, helpful for wardrobe emergencies |
| Gift Card | 3 | Unusual to carry, but a fun find |
| Receipt from a Restaurant | 2 | Indicates recent dining out experience |
| Phone Charger or Cable | 2 | Essential tech accessory for many |
| Coupon or Discount Voucher | 3 | Shows frugality or planning ahead |
| Pair of Sunglasses | 1 | Common accessory for sunny days |
| Medication or Vitamins | 2 | Essential health items, less common in all purses |
| Novelty Keychain | 3 | Unique personal touch |
Tips for Hosting the Game
Running the “What’s In The Purse” game effectively requires clear instructions and a lively atmosphere. Begin by explaining the rules thoroughly, including how points are earned and how to handle disputes. Emphasize fun and interaction rather than just competition.
To maintain momentum, consider these tips:
- Encourage guests to share funny or interesting stories related to items they find.
- Use a microphone or speaker if the group is large to keep everyone engaged.
- Offer small, themed prizes for the top scorers to increase motivation.
- Set a reasonable time limit for each round to keep the game moving briskly.
- Rotate the host role or involve the bride in reading items to add a personal touch.
By paying attention to pacing and engagement, the game can become a highlight of the bridal shower, creating memorable moments and laughter.
Variations to Customize the Game
There are several creative twists to the classic “What’s In The Purse” game that can be adapted to fit different bridal shower themes or guest preferences:
- Themed Item Lists: Tailor the list to the bride’s hobbies, profession, or interests (e.g., travel items, fitness gear).
- Team Play: Divide guests into teams to encourage collaboration and conversation.
- Photo Challenge: Instead of just listing items, guests take photos of specific objects in their purses, adding a visual element.
- Timed Rounds: Introduce rounds where guests have only a set amount of time to find as many items as possible.
- Bonus Rounds: Include surprise bonus items that earn extra points or require guests to perform a fun task.
These variations keep the game fresh and adaptable to different groups while maintaining the core excitement of discovering unexpected items.
Scoring and Declaring Winners
Accurate and transparent scoring is essential for a fair and enjoyable game. Each guest should mark off items found in their purse and tally points according to the assigned values. It’s helpful to designate a scorekeeper or have guests exchange score sheets for verification.
To streamline scoring:
- Use a clear score sheet format with items, point values, and a checkbox or space for guests to mark found items.
- Announce scores after each round or at the end of the game to maintain suspense.
- In case of ties, consider a quick tiebreaker round with rare or challenging items.
The winner(s) can be awarded small prizes such as gift cards, beauty products, or bridal-themed keepsakes to commemorate the event.
| Step | Description |
|---|
| Item | Point Value | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Lipstick or Lip Balm | 1 | A common beauty essential found in most purses. |
| Hand Sanitizer | 1 | Frequently carried for hygiene purposes. |
| Hairbrush or Comb | 2 | Useful for quick touch-ups. |
| Gum or Mints | 1 | Popular for freshening breath. |
| Feminine Hygiene Product | 3 | Often discreetly carried for emergencies. |
| Phone Charger or Power Bank | 4 | Less common but increasingly popular item. |
| Receipt or Shopping List | 2 | Indicates recent purchases or errands. |
| Medication or Vitamins | 3 | Reflects health-conscious habits. |
| Coupon or Gift Card | 4 | Unusual but practical items. |
| Novelty Item (e.g., small toy, figurine) | 5 | Rare and entertaining to discover. |
Adjust the list according to the guests’ demographics and interests to keep the game relevant and enjoyable.
Tips for Hosting a Successful What’s In The Purse Game
To maximize participation and enjoyment, consider the following expert tips:
- Encourage Honesty: Remind guests that the game is meant for fun. Honest participation ensures fair scoring and a relaxed atmosphere.
- Customize Item List: Tailor the checklist to suit the bride’s personality or the theme of the bridal shower for a personalized touch.
- Provide Prizes: Small prizes such as beauty products, gift cards, or bridal-themed keepsakes motivate guests to engage actively.
- Use a Moderator: Designate someone to explain the rules, keep time, and announce scores to maintain order and flow.
- Limit Distractions: Ensure the playing area is comfortable and free from interruptions to keep guests focused.
- Include Icebreaker Questions: After the game, invite guests to share stories behind unusual items found to foster connection and conversation.
Variations to Enhance the Game Experience
To accommodate different group sizes, time constraints, or preferences, several variations can be implemented:
| Variation | Description | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Timed Reveal | Guests take turns revealing one item from their purse, earning points as they go. | Promotes interaction and suspense. |
| Team Play | Guests form teams to combine purses and maximize item variety. | Expert Perspectives on the “What’s In The Purse” Bridal Shower Game