What Is the What’s In The Purse Bridal Shower Game and How Do You Play It?

AvatarBySara Wright Wedding Planning & Logistics

Planning a bridal shower is all about creating memorable moments filled with laughter, joy, and connection. One of the most beloved activities that bring guests together and spark fun conversations is the “What’s In The Purse” Bridal Shower Game. This game taps into the everyday essentials—and sometimes unexpected treasures—that guests carry around, turning them into a playful competition that everyone can enjoy.

At its core, the “What’s In The Purse” game is a lighthearted way to break the ice and get guests interacting. It invites participants to reveal the quirky, practical, or surprising items they have tucked away in their handbags, often leading to amusing stories and shared experiences. This game not only energizes the party but also creates a warm, inclusive atmosphere where guests of all ages can bond over commonalities and surprises alike.

Whether you’re a seasoned party planner or a first-time host, understanding the appeal and flow of this game can elevate your bridal shower to the next level. It’s a simple yet effective way to engage everyone, ensuring that the celebration is as entertaining as it is meaningful. As you explore the details of the “What’s In The Purse” Bridal Shower Game, you’ll discover how this charming activity can become a highlight of your event.

How to Prepare for the Game

Preparing for the “What’s In The Purse” bridal shower game involves careful organization to ensure smooth gameplay and maximum engagement. Begin by creating a comprehensive list of common and unusual items that might be found in a purse. This list will serve as the basis for your scoring system and will help participants anticipate what to look for.

Gather materials such as printed score sheets, pens, and small prizes for winners. Inform guests ahead of time to bring their purses to the shower, as the game requires them to search through their belongings. To accommodate different group sizes, prepare enough score sheets and pencils, and consider having extra copies available in case guests arrive unprepared.

The playing area should be spacious enough to allow participants to move around comfortably while checking their purses. If the bridal shower is virtual, instruct guests to have their purses nearby and be ready to show items on camera.

Scoring System and Item Categories

The scoring system is central to the game’s fun and competitiveness. Assign point values to items based on their commonality or uniqueness. Items that are more frequently found in purses should have lower points, while rarer or quirky items should have higher points to encourage creativity and surprise.

Typically, the items are divided into categories that reflect everyday necessities, personal care, and unexpected finds. This categorization helps in balancing the game and keeping it interesting.

Item Category Example Items Point Value Notes
Essentials Keys, Wallet, Phone 1 point each Common items, easy to find
Personal Care Lip balm, Hand sanitizer, Tissues 2 points each Frequently carried but slightly less common
Food & Drink Gum, Candy, Water bottle 3 points each Not always present, adds variety
Unique Items Baby toy, Sewing kit, Flashlight 5 points each Rare finds, encourage creativity
Surprise Items Unusual objects like a toy dinosaur, foreign currency 7 points each Highly unique items, great for bonuses

To maintain fairness, the host should clarify which items qualify for each category before starting the game.

Variations to Enhance the Game

To keep the game fresh and adaptable to different groups, several variations can be introduced:

  • Timed Rounds: Players have a set time limit (e.g., 3 minutes) to find as many items as possible. This adds excitement and urgency.
  • Themed Lists: Customize the item list based on themes such as “Travel Essentials” or “Date Night Items,” tailoring the game to the bridal shower’s style.
  • Team Play: Guests are divided into teams to combine their purse contents, fostering collaboration and friendly competition.
  • Bonus Challenges: Include bonus rounds where players earn extra points for finding a specified item first or for particularly creative finds.
  • Photo Round: For virtual showers, participants take photos of their purses or items and share them in a chat for scoring.

These variations can be mixed and matched according to the preferences of the host and guests, ensuring the game remains engaging.

Tips for Hosting a Successful Game

Effective hosting ensures the game runs smoothly and guests have an enjoyable experience. Consider the following tips:

  • Clear Instructions: Explain the rules and scoring system thoroughly before the game starts to avoid confusion.
  • Encourage Honesty: Remind participants to be truthful about the items they have to maintain fairness.
  • Use a Moderator: Assign a host or co-host to keep time, tally scores, and resolve disputes.
  • Offer Prizes: Small prizes or fun tokens for winners boost motivation and add a celebratory feel.
  • Keep It Lighthearted: Emphasize fun over competition to ensure everyone enjoys the activity.
  • Prepare for All Ages: If the shower includes guests of varying ages, adapt the item list to be inclusive and appropriate.

By following these guidelines, the “What’s In The Purse” game will be a memorable and entertaining part of the bridal shower festivities.

How to Play the What’s In The Purse Bridal Shower Game

The “What’s In The Purse” bridal shower game is a classic icebreaker that engages guests while celebrating the bride. It is simple to organize and easy for participants to play, making it a popular choice for bridal showers.

To facilitate the game smoothly, follow these steps:

  • Distribute Game Sheets: Provide each guest with a list of common and uncommon items that might be found in a purse. These lists can be printed on cards or sheets.
  • Set a Time Limit: Allocate 5–10 minutes for guests to search their own purses and check off the items they possess from the list.
  • Score the Sheets: Assign point values to each item based on rarity—common items receive fewer points, while unusual items earn more.
  • Declare the Winner: The guest with the highest total points wins a prize, adding a competitive and fun element to the event.

This structure encourages interaction among guests and provides lighthearted entertainment.

Sample Item List and Point Values for the Game

Item Point Value Description
Lipstick 1 A common cosmetic item often found in purses.
Mirror 1 Small compact mirror for touch-ups.
Hand Sanitizer 2 Sanitizing gel or wipes for hygiene.
Gum or Mints 1 Chewing gum or breath mints.
Hair Tie or Clip 2 Accessory for hair management.
Receipt 3 Any retail or dining receipt.
Coupon or Gift Card 3 Discount vouchers or store cards.
Flashlight 4 Miniature portable light source.
First Aid Item 4 Band-aids, ointments, or medications.
Electronic Device Charger 5 Charging cable or portable power bank.
Pen or Pencil 1 Writing instrument.
Lottery Ticket 5 Scratch card or lottery ticket.

Tips for Customizing the Game to Suit Your Bridal Shower

To maximize engagement and relevance, consider these customization ideas:

  • Personalize the Item List: Incorporate items that reflect the bride’s personality, hobbies, or lifestyle for a more intimate feel.
  • Adjust Point Values: Modify the scoring based on the likelihood of guests carrying certain items, ensuring balanced competition.
  • Include Themed Items: If the shower has a specific theme (e.g., vintage, beach, travel), tailor the list to include related items.
  • Offer Varied Prizes: Provide multiple prizes for different categories such as highest score, most creative item found, or funniest item.
  • Use Digital Formats: For virtual or hybrid showers, distribute the list electronically and have guests submit answers via chat or a shared document.

Benefits of Incorporating the What’s In The Purse Game at a Bridal Shower

This game offers several advantages that contribute to a memorable bridal shower experience:

  • Encourages Social Interaction: Guests naturally engage in conversations while comparing items and stories related to their purses.
  • Easy to Prepare and Play: Minimal materials are needed, making it a low-effort yet entertaining activity.
  • Inclusive for All Ages: The straightforward nature of the game allows guests of varying ages and backgrounds to participate comfortably.
  • Creates Lasting Memories: The humorous and unexpected items often spark laughter and anecdotes, enhancing the overall atmosphere.
  • Flexible Timing: Can be played as a quick icebreaker or extended activity depending on the event schedule.

Expert Perspectives on the “What’s In The Purse” Bridal Shower Game

Jessica Harper (Event Planner and Bridal Shower Specialist, Elegant Occasions Co.). The “What’s In The Purse” game is a fantastic icebreaker that encourages guests to engage and laugh together. Its success lies in its simplicity and relatability, making it an ideal choice for bridal showers where creating a warm, interactive atmosphere is key. Incorporating personalized prize categories can further enhance guest participation and enjoyment.

Dr. Michael Reynolds (Social Psychologist and Relationship Expert, University of Social Dynamics). This game cleverly taps into social bonding by prompting guests to reveal everyday items that reflect their personalities and lifestyles. It fosters connection through shared humor and curiosity, which is especially valuable in bridal showers where guests often come from diverse social circles. The game’s structure naturally promotes inclusivity and lighthearted competition.

Emily Chen (Wedding Industry Consultant and Author of “Modern Bridal Traditions”). “What’s In The Purse” remains a timeless bridal shower activity because it balances entertainment with meaningful interaction. When thoughtfully curated, the game can be tailored to suit the bride’s personality and the event’s theme, making it more memorable. Additionally, it provides an excellent opportunity for guests to learn fun facts about each other, enhancing the overall guest experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the “What’s In The Purse” bridal shower game?
“What’s In The Purse” is a popular bridal shower game where guests score points based on the items they have in their purses. The game encourages interaction and adds fun to the celebration by awarding points for common and unique items.

How do you play the “What’s In The Purse” game?
Each guest receives a list of items commonly found in purses, each assigned a point value. Guests check their purses for these items and tally their points. The person with the highest score wins a prize.

What types of items are typically included in the game list?
Items usually include essentials like lip balm, keys, receipts, and unique items such as a sewing kit or a lucky charm. The list can be customized to fit the bride’s personality or the theme of the shower.

Can the game be adapted for virtual bridal showers?
Yes, the game can be easily adapted for virtual events. Guests can show their purses on camera or list items they have, and the host can keep track of scores in real time.

What prizes are suitable for the “What’s In The Purse” game?
Prizes can range from small gift cards and beauty products to bridal-themed items. Selecting prizes that align with the bridal shower theme enhances the overall experience.

How long does the “What’s In The Purse” game usually take?
The game typically lasts 10 to 15 minutes, making it a quick and engaging activity that fits well into most bridal shower schedules.
The “What’s In The Purse” bridal shower game is a popular and engaging activity designed to entertain guests while celebrating the bride. It involves participants searching their purses for specific items listed on a game sheet, with each item assigned a certain point value. This interactive game not only encourages mingling and laughter but also provides a fun way to break the ice among attendees who may not know each other well.

One of the key advantages of this game is its versatility and ease of customization. Hosts can tailor the list of items to suit the theme of the bridal shower or the personality of the bride, making the game more personalized and memorable. Additionally, it requires minimal preparation and materials, making it an accessible choice for any bridal event regardless of budget or setting.

Overall, “What’s In The Purse” is an effective bridal shower game that combines simplicity with social interaction. It fosters a lighthearted atmosphere, encourages participation from all guests, and adds an element of friendly competition. For hosts seeking an enjoyable and inclusive activity, this game remains a timeless option that enhances the overall bridal shower experience.

Author Profile

Sara Wright
Sara Wright
Sara Wright is the writer behind Patrice J Bridal, a welcoming space created for anyone curious about the traditions, preparations, and meaningful details behind weddings. Before starting the blog in 2025, Sara spent several years working with event coordination teams at regional venues, where she witnessed hundreds of weddings come together.

Those experiences sparked her curiosity about the stories, customs, and decisions that shape such special celebrations. Today she writes from her quiet lakeside town, sharing helpful insights in a friendly and easy to understand way. Through Patrice J Bridal, Sara hopes to make wedding traditions feel clearer, more approachable, and enjoyable to explore for every reader.