Hey there, soon-to-be baby shower planners! Whether you’re the one hosting or the mama-to-be, you’ve probably realized that planning a baby shower can be a bit daunting.
There’s a lot to think about—from picking a theme and choosing the perfect games to making sure everything runs smoothly on the big day. Trust me, I’ve been there! But don’t worry, that’s exactly why this guide is here.
We’re going to take it step by step and go over all the details to ensure you don’t miss a thing. From organizing the schedule and selecting the right decorations to keeping it on a budget and handling the thank you notes after, I’ll help you cover every base.
I know it feels like a lot, but with this guide in hand, you’ll have everything you need to throw a shower that’s memorable, fun, and most importantly, stress-free for the mama-to-be.
Let’s get started and make sure you have all the tools you need for a shower everyone will love. And don’t forget to grab your printable checklist at the end to stay organized every step of the way!
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Table of Contents
- How to Plan a Baby Shower Budget That Works
- When and Where to Host a Baby Shower
- How to Create a Baby Shower Guest List
- Baby Shower Invitations: When to Send and What to Include
- Baby Shower Theme and Decoration Ideas
- Baby Shower Food Ideas: What to Serve and When
- Fun Baby Shower Games and Activities
- Baby Shower Prizes and Party Favor Ideas
- How to Plan a Baby Shower Timeline That Flows
- Baby Shower Gift Table Setup and Registry Tips
- How to Capture Baby Shower Memories
- Last Minute Baby Shower Details Not to Forget
How to Plan a Baby Shower Budget That Works
When it comes to planning a baby shower, one of the first things you should do is set a budget. I know it’s not the most exciting part of the planning process, but trust me, it’ll make everything else easier. Think of it as the foundation for your entire event. Without it, it’s easy to get carried away with all the fun ideas and end up with a bill that’s way higher than you expected.
Setting a budget early on helps guide all your decisions—whether it’s picking a venue, choosing decorations, or figuring out how much to spend on food and drinks. It keeps everything in check and helps you stay focused on what really matters.
The best part? Planning a baby shower on a budget doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style or fun. It’s all about making smart choices and finding creative ways to save without cutting corners. A beautiful and memorable shower can definitely be budget-friendly—it just takes a little planning.
What should my baby shower budget be?
When it comes to setting your budget, the truth is there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The budget for a baby shower can vary depending on the type of event you’re throwing and how many people you’re inviting. For some, it’s a small, intimate gathering at home with simple snacks and decorations. For others, it might be a larger celebration at a venue with catering and elaborate decor.
Ultimately, the budget should reflect what you’re comfortable with. The good news is, no matter your budget, you can host an amazing shower! If you’re aiming to keep things frugal, I have plenty of tips in my planning a baby shower on a budget post, but remember, there’s no wrong way to do it—just make sure you’re choosing what works best for you and the mama-to-be.
When and Where to Host a Baby Shower
As a labor and delivery nurse, I’ve had more than a few expectant moms say, “But my baby shower is on Saturday!” It’s always a bummer when baby decides to make an early appearance. So, my advice is to plan the shower between 28 and 34 weeks. This gives the mom-to-be enough time to prep, but isn’t too close to her due date in case baby decides to show up early.
Of course, this is just my take on it. I’ve also been to great showers in the second trimester and plenty at 39 weeks, so it really depends on what the mom-to-be feels comfortable with. Be sure to check in with her and see what works best!
Now, on to the venue. The location is where your baby shower theme really starts to take shape. Whether you go for a laid-back home gathering, a rented event space, or a restaurant, make sure the venue fits the vibe of the party and can comfortably hold your guest list.
Once you’ve got the date and location set, you’re ready to start planning the more fun details!
Read Next: Best Locations to Host a Baby Shower
How to Create a Baby Shower Guest List
Oh, the guest list. Honestly, it’s more of an art than a science. The key is keeping it cozy and true to what the mom-to-be wants. It’s her day, and the people on this list should be the ones who’ll celebrate her now and in the future. It’s more about the people who bring her joy and support than it is about the numbers.
One thing to keep in mind: Ask the mom-to-be for her list of guests as soon as possible. That way, you can get the invitations out early and avoid any last-minute stress. The earlier, the better, so you can make sure everyone has time to RSVP and get it on their calendars.
Whether it’s a cozy living room or a larger venue, make sure the space feels right for her. The guest list and venue should work together, but it’s all about making sure the vibe is perfect. You might need to get creative with space depending on the RSVPs, so just keep that in mind as you plan.
Baby Shower Invitations: When to Send and What to Include
Now we’re getting into the fun stuff—baby shower invitations! Your invitation sets the tone for the whole event, giving guests a little sneak peek at what to expect. Whether you’re going all out with a themed bash or keeping it simple, your invite should match the vibe of the shower while making sure guests have all the important details.
Mailed Invitations vs. E-vites
One of the first things to decide is whether you’re going the traditional route with printed invitations or keeping it digital with e-vites. There’s no right or wrong choice—it all depends on what works best for the mom-to-be and the guest list.
- Printed Invitations: Perfect if you want something tangible and keepsake-worthy. You can find adorable designs on sites like Etsy, Minted, or Zazzle, or even grab a printable template and DIY it.
- E-vites: A great option if you’re short on time or want to keep things simple. Websites like Evite and Paperless Post offer stylish digital invites, and they make tracking RSVPs a breeze.
When to Send Invitations
You’ll want to get those invites out early to give guests plenty of time to clear their schedules and shop for gifts. A good rule of thumb is at least 4 weeks before the shower—or even earlier if people will be traveling.
Important Details to Include on the Invitation
Your baby shower invitation isn’t just about setting the tone—it’s also where guests get all the key details they need to show up and celebrate! Here are a few must-haves to include:
1. The Essentials
Make sure your invitation clearly includes:
- Who the shower is for (Mom-to-be’s name)
- Date and time
- Location (or virtual event link if applicable)
- RSVP details (Who to contact and the deadline to respond)
2. Baby Registry & Book Request
Include a short link or QR code to the baby registry so guests can easily shop. If the mom-to-be wants to build baby’s first library, a simple note like “Instead of a card, bring a book with a message inside for baby to keep!” lets guests know.
3. Theme or Dress Code (If Applicable)
If the shower has a theme or specific dress code (like a floral brunch or pajama party), mention it so guests can plan accordingly.
By covering these key details, your guests will have everything they need to celebrate—without a flood of last-minute questions!
Baby Shower Theme and Decorating Ideas
Choosing a baby shower theme can feel a little overwhelming at first—kind of like staring at a blank canvas. But the best way to start? Just ask the mom-to-be!
Does she already have a vision in mind? Maybe a favorite color scheme, a plan for the baby’s nursery décor, or even something seasonal that ties into the time of year? Some moms love a classic, timeless look, while others want something totally unique. There’s no wrong answer—just whatever makes her feel special and celebrated.
Once you have a theme, it’s time to bring it to life! Think about colors, decorations, and little details that tie everything together. Whether it’s a cozy woodland vibe, a whimsical fairytale theme, or a modern minimalist setup, the key is to make it personal. Pinterest is great for inspiration, but the best baby showers come together when you add your own personal touch.
You don’t need over-the-top decorations to make a baby shower feel special. A few thoughtful details can totally transform the space. So have fun with it, don’t overthink it, and remember—the best part of any baby shower isn’t the decorations, it’s the love and excitement of everyone gathered to celebrate!
Baby Shower Food Ideas: What to Serve and When
Once you’ve picked a theme, figuring out the menu might just be the trickiest part of planning a baby shower. Do you go all out with a full meal, or keep it simple with easy-to-grab snacks? Honestly, it all comes down to your budget, the vibe of the shower, and what the mom-to-be actually wants to eat (because let’s be real—that’s the most important part).
One of the biggest things to consider? The time of day. A brunch shower is perfect for things like fruit skewers, yogurt parfaits, and mini quiches. Afternoon showers call for easy finger foods like tea sandwiches, veggie trays, and caprese skewers. If you’re serving a full meal, something low-maintenance like chicken salad wraps or a taco bar is always a hit.
And let’s not forget dessert. Whether it’s cupcakes, dipped strawberries, or themed sugar cookies, you can’t go wrong with something sweet. Drinks matter too—mocktails, flavored lemonades, and iced tea are always solid options.
Want to make it extra fun? Themed treats can really pull everything together. Think star-shaped cookies for a Twinkle Twinkle Little Star shower or mini sliders for a Baby-Q barbecue. Little details like that can make the whole event feel even more special.
At the end of the day, the goal is to keep it simple, tasty, and stress-free. And most importantly? Make sure there’s food the mom-to-be actually likes—because this day is all about her!
Fun Baby Shower Games and Activities
Now for one of the best parts of planning a baby shower—figuring out how to keep guests entertained! The right mix of activities can take a shower from just okay to so much fun.
The first thing to consider? What the mom-to-be actually enjoys. Some love the classic baby shower games like Guess the Baby Food or Baby Bingo, while others would rather skip the traditional route and go for baby shower games that aren’t activities. There’s no right or wrong way to do it—it just depends on what fits her personality and the group.
If you’re sticking with games, pick ones that are fun but not awkward (because let’s be honest, not everyone loves being the center of attention). If traditional games aren’t her thing, consider interactive activities like:
- A DIY onesie or bib decorating station – Guests can design something cute for the baby!
- A photo booth with fun props – Perfect for capturing memories.
- Advice or well-wishes cards – Have guests write sweet messages for the mom-to-be.
- Baby predictions – Guests can guess the baby’s birth date, weight, or hair color for fun.
No matter what you choose, the key is to keep things light and fun so guests feel engaged, not pressured. A good mix of activities ensures there’s something for everyone, and most importantly, that the mom-to-be has the best time celebrating with the people she loves.
Baby Shower Prizes and Party Favor Ideas
Prizes and party favors are definitely optional, but they can add a fun touch! Prizes for any games don’t have to be expensive—keep it simple and budget-friendly by letting winners pick from a few options. Prizes can also double as décor, like flowers, candles, or themed sugar cookies. If you need ideas, check out my baby shower game prizes post for inspiration!
Party favors are a nice thank-you but also totally optional. If you include them, small gifts like wildflower seeds, succulents, or mini soaps are thoughtful without breaking the bank. And if you’re planning a baby shower on a budget, feel free to skip them—guests are there to celebrate, not for party favors!
The key is to keep it fun and stress-free—because at the end of the day, it’s not about the prizes or favors, it’s about celebrating the mom-to-be and making memories together!
How to Plan a Baby Shower Timeline That Flows
A well-organized baby shower keeps things running smoothly, makes guests feel comfortable, and ensures the mom-to-be actually gets to enjoy the day (instead of wondering what’s supposed to happen next). While every shower is different, having a general plan helps everything flow naturally without awkward lulls or rushed moments.
Setting the Stage
Before the party even starts, think about the setup. Where will guests sit? Where will food, gifts, and activities go? Making sure everything has a place helps avoid chaos later. A loose schedule also makes a big difference—it doesn’t have to be strict, but knowing what happens when keeps things moving.
And if you’re not comfortable taking charge, assign someone as the emcee to guide guests through the event and keep the energy up.
A Typical Baby Shower Timeline
Here’s a general flow that works well for most baby showers:
- Guest Arrival & Mingling – Let guests settle in, grab a drink, and chat. This keeps things casual and avoids that awkward “what do we do now?” feeling.
- Icebreaker or Light Game – Nothing too cheesy, just something simple to get people engaged.
- Welcome Speech – A quick thank-you to guests and a fun intro to kick things off.
- Food & Socializing – Whether it’s a full meal or light snacks, this is a great time for everyone to catch up.
- Baby Shower Activity/Game – This could be a diaper raffle, a fun baby shower game, or something interactive like onesie decorating.
- Gift Opening – A special moment for the mom-to-be to unwrap gifts while guests ooh and ahh over the tiny baby clothes.
- Prizes & Party Favors – If you’re including them, this is the perfect time to hand them out as guests start to leave.
Of course, this is just a rough guide! There are plenty of ways to structure a baby shower depending on what works best for the mom-to-be, the guests, and the overall vibe of the event.
Some showers stick with this traditional flow, while others opt for a more alternative baby shower format, swapping games for hands-on activities or skipping gift opening in favor of something more interactive.
However you plan it, the key is making sure the mom-to-be feels celebrated in a way that’s fun, comfortable, and meaningful to her.
Baby Shower Gift Table Setup and Registry Tips
A baby registry makes life easier for both the mom-to-be and her guests. It takes the guesswork out of gift-giving and ensures she gets what she actually needs. If she hasn’t set one up yet, encourage her to—it makes things so much smoother for everyone!
At the shower, having a designated gift table keeps things organized. Set it up near the entrance so guests can easily drop off their gifts as they arrive. A little decoration can make it feel festive while keeping everything in one place.
And don’t forget about tracking gifts for thank-you notes! Have a notebook handy or ask a friend to jot down who gave what—future mom-brain will thank you later when it’s time to send out thank-you cards.
How to Capture Baby Shower Memories
A baby shower is full of sweet moments that the mom-to-be will want to remember, so finding a way to capture the day is a must! Whether you go all out with a photographer or take a more DIY approach, there are plenty of ways to preserve the memories.
- Guest Book – Set up a book where guests can sign in and leave a note for the mom-to-be. A great option is a pre-made book with maternity photos or blank pages for sweet messages and well wishes.
- Hire a Photographer/Videographer – If the budget allows, a pro can capture all the little details, from decorations to candid moments with guests.
- Encourage Guest Photos – Have guests snap pictures and share them with you after the party. You can even create a shared album or turn them into a keepsake book.
- Polaroid Station – Set out a polaroid camera or even several disposable ones with a designated spot for guests to leave their photos. This makes for a fun, interactive way to document the day!
Whichever option you choose, having a way to look back on the special moments will make the baby shower even more meaningful for the mom-to-be.
Last Minute Baby Shower Details Not to Forget
And finally, let’s talk about those last little details that can make all the difference. When it comes to pulling off the ultimate baby shower, double-checking logistics is the secret to a stress-free day. Some of these may or may not apply depending on your plans, but they’re all good things to keep in mind as you wrap up your preparations.
- Touch base with your venue – Whether you’re hosting at home, a restaurant, or a rented space, confirm the date, time, and any important details like seating, A/V needs, or setup logistics. Picture the flow of the party—does everything make sense? Will guests be comfortable?
- Finalize vendor arrangements – If you’re using caterers, decorators, or any other service providers, now’s the time to double-check every detail. From food to decor, make sure everyone knows what’s expected so there are no surprises. Even things like the exact shade of balloons that match your theme are worth a final look!
- Plan for parking and accessibility – If you’ve got a big guest list, make sure there’s enough parking and that the venue is easy for everyone to navigate, including those who may need extra accommodations. A little signage to direct guests to the right spot can also go a long way.
- Check the tech – Whether it’s a playlist, a slideshow of sweet memories, or a Zoom call for virtual guests, test everything ahead of time. The last thing you want is a technical hiccup interrupting those baby shower games or special moments.
At the end of the day, all of these little details come together to create a seamless, stress-free celebration. Taking the time to confirm them now means you’ll be able to relax and truly enjoy the special moments—because that’s what really matters. After all, a well-planned baby shower isn’t just about the logistics—it’s about the love, excitement, and memories made along the way.
Download Your Baby Shower Checklist Here
Here’s your ultimate baby shower checklist to keep everything organized and stress-free! Whether you’re planning a simple gathering or a big celebration, this checklist covers all the essentials—decor, food, games, and those little details that make the day special.
Download it below and start checking things off as you go!
Planning the ultimate baby shower doesn’t have to be overwhelming! With the right checklist, a little organization, and a touch of creativity, you can throw a beautiful and stress-free celebration for the mom-to-be.
Whether you’re keeping it simple or going all out, this baby shower checklist ensures you’ve got everything covered—from decorations to party favors and all the little details in between.
So grab your printable baby shower checklist and start planning a day to remember!
