Complete Baby Shower Planning Guide

Marie Grew

Mother of two and founder of Moonboon

Planning a baby shower is an exciting and special time, but it can also feel a little overwhelming. As the host, you want everything to go smoothly and be just right, but with so many things to consider, it can quickly start to feel like you’re organizing a wedding. From picking the perfect venue and creating a guest list to choosing a fun theme and organizing the games, there’s a lot to think about. And that is before you even start on the food, decorations, and finding the perfect gifts!

But do not worry, we have got you covered. In this guide, we’ll take you step by step through the whole process, providing simple and helpful tips to make your job easier. Whether you're hosting an intimate gathering or a larger celebration, we’ll give you plenty of ideas to help create a fun, memorable baby shower that the parent-to-be will enjoy.

First things first – what is the purpose of a baby shower?

A baby shower is a special way to celebrate a growing family and the little one on the way. It’s a chance to gather with loved ones, whether that’s friends, family, or close members of your community, before the baby arrives.

Traditionally, baby showers are about showing support for the parent-to-be, offering love, encouragement, and maybe even a bit of helpful advice. It’s also a fun (and practical!) way to help them prepare for their new arrival, with thoughtful gifts ranging from baby clothes and books to everyday essentials like diapers and blankets.

More than anything, a baby shower is about connection. It’s about sharing in the excitement, joy, and anticipation of welcoming a brand new life into the world.

And let’s be honest… who doesn’t love a little party?

What happens at a baby shower?

Food, drinks, and gift-opening are usually at the center of the celebration, but it’s the extra touches—like games and meaningful activities—that make a baby shower feel personal and memorable. These moments help create a warm atmosphere and bring everyone closer to the parents-to-be.

Guests might be asked to share a piece of advice that relates to the parents’ experience—like tips for raising a boy, life with twins, or what it’s like to have a baby in the city. Some showers include a baby’s first-year bucket list, where each guest adds something special the family could do together during those first twelve months.

A gender reveal can also be part of the day. Some parents choose to share the baby’s sex with their loved ones during the shower using balloons, cake, or confetti. It adds an extra bit of excitement, but it’s always up to the parents how much they want to share.

In the end, a baby shower is all about joy, connection, and celebrating the new arrival with the people who matter most.

Who should host the baby shower?

When it comes to covering the costs of a baby shower, the host usually takes on the responsibility. However, it’s also common for a group of friends, family members, or coworkers to come together to plan the event and share the expenses. Splitting the cost can make things more manageable and allows everyone to contribute in a meaningful way.

The good news is that a baby shower doesn’t need to be costly to be meaningful. A thoughtful, joyful celebration can absolutely be done on a budget. What matters most is the feeling behind it—not how much you spend.

Start by deciding on the total amount you’re comfortable spending. From there, you can break it down into categories like food and drinks, decorations, games, and any extras. Homemade touches, simple snacks, and DIY decorations can go a long way in creating a beautiful atmosphere without stretching the budget.

At the end of the day, it’s not about the price tag—it’s about celebrating the new arrival with love, support, and a little bit of fun.

Budgets, costs, and everything in between

At the end of the day, it’s not about the price tag—it’s about celebrating the new arrival with love, support, and a little bit of fun.

When to host a baby shower

Timing is key when planning a baby shower. The ideal window to host a pre-birth baby shower is typically between 25 and 35 weeks, which usually falls in the late second or early third trimester. At this stage, the expectant mother is still feeling comfortable and has enough energy to enjoy the celebration, but there’s still enough time before the due date to take inventory of what baby needs. Scheduling the shower too late in the pregnancy might leave the parent-to-be feeling exhausted, while holding it too early may limit the time for planning and preparations.

When it comes to the time of day, many choose late morning or mid-afternoon on a weekend. This is often the most convenient time for most guests and works well if you’re hosting a casual gathering. Of course, the best time will depend on your guest list, the venue, and your budget.

When and how to send invitations

As for when to send out the invitations, it is generally recommended to send them about six to eight weeks before the shower. This gives your guests plenty of time to mark the date, RSVP, shop for gifts, and make any necessary arrangements, like finding a babysitter or booking time off work.

There are no hard and fast rules about how to send invites, but for a casual baby shower, an email invitation or a message through social media is perfectly acceptable. For a more formal shower, however, paper invitations still carry a special touch. A benefit of email invitations is the ability to easily include a link to the baby registry (if you have one), making it simple for guests to shop and choose gifts.

What to include on the invitation

Be sure to include the following details on your baby shower invitation to avoid confusion and make it easy for your guests to plan:

Location: Clearly state where the shower will be held, including the venue address and any specific instructions (like parking information).
Time: Include the start time and any details about the event duration.
Dress Code: If there’s a theme, or if you have specific attire in mind (such as casual, fancy, or something based on the season), let your guests know.
What to Bring: This might include something like sunscreen for an outdoor baby shower or a dish to share for a potluck-style event. If you have a registry, you can mention that as well.

Who do you invite to a baby shower

When it comes to creating the guest list for a baby shower, the number of people invited will help determine the size of the venue and set the tone for the celebration. It will also play a big role in your budget for food, decorations, and other details. The parent-to-be's personal preferences and style are essential when deciding who should be included, so it's important to consider what the parents want for their celebration.

A big factor to think about is whether it will be a co-ed celebration. Some parents-to-be prefer a traditional shower with only women, while others opt for a more inclusive gathering with both men and women. If the event is co-ed, this can influence the type of activities and games you choose, as well as the overall vibe of the day. Co-ed showers are becoming more popular, as they allow both parents to share in the excitement, but the decision ultimately depends on what feels right for the family.

When putting together the list, it’s also important to think about close family and friends. Typically, you’ll want to invite the people who are closest to the parents-to-be—such as parents, siblings, and grandparents, along with close friends who have been part of the journey. If the guest list grows too large, it can sometimes feel overwhelming, so it’s helpful to keep it balanced and intimate, focusing on those who are most significant to the family.

Work friends or colleagues might also be included, depending on the parent-to-be’s relationships at work. If they’ve been a supportive part of the journey, it could make sense to invite them, but you’ll want to consider whether it’s appropriate for the setting and how formal or casual the shower is. In some cases, if the shower is large, the parent-to-be may prefer to host a smaller gathering for colleagues separately.

Finally, there’s the question of extended family and acquaintances. If the space allows and the parent-to-be is open to it, you could invite extended family members—like aunts, uncles, cousins, and family friends who are excited about the new arrival. These are often people who may not be as close to the parents but still play a big role in the child’s life.

The guest list sets the stage for the baby shower and helps shape the overall feel of the event. Ultimately, the most important thing is that the people invited reflect the parent-to-be’s vision for the day, keeping the focus on celebrating the new baby with the people who matter most.

How long is a baby shower?

The length of a baby shower is flexible and can vary depending on the style of celebration and the preferences of the parent(s)-to-be. Every baby shower is unique, and there isn’t a one-size-fits-all timeline. Whether you’re planning a laid-back gathering or a more structured event, it's important to remember that the timeline should reflect what works best for everyone involved, especially the parent-to-be.

That said, there are a few things that tend to happen at most baby showers, which can help guide the overall schedule. You’ll typically want to allow for some time at the beginning for guests to arrive and mingle, as well as some time at the end for goodbyes. Keeping this in mind, a typical baby shower usually lasts between three to four hours, with a good half hour at the start and finish to account for arrival and departure.

It’s also worth considering that for the mom-to-be, attending and hosting the event can be a bit exhausting. By this point in the pregnancy, the parent-to-be is likely already managing a lot of physical and emotional changes, so standing for hours or engaging in numerous conversations can be draining. That’s why sticking to a three- to four-hour window is usually a sweet spot—long enough for guests to enjoy themselves and celebrate but not so long that it becomes overwhelming for the expectant parent.

Ultimately, while there’s no hard rule for how long a baby shower should be, aiming for a manageable length that respects everyone’s time and energy makes for a smoother and more enjoyable event.

Where should you host a baby shower?

When it comes to deciding where to host a baby shower, there are several factors to consider, including the time of year, the number of guests, and your budget. The perfect venue should reflect the theme of the celebration while ensuring the parent-to-be is comfortable and the event is enjoyable for everyone.

One option is to host the shower at someone’s home, whether it’s the host’s house or the parent(s)-to-be’s. Hosting at home has several benefits. It’s private and comfortable, which allows guests to relax and enjoy themselves in a familiar setting. It’s also typically the most budget-friendly option, as there are no venue fees involved. Plus, you have access to the kitchen, living room, and bathrooms, which is convenient for food, drinks, and guest needs. The only thing to keep in mind is that the host will need to handle the logistics, from seating arrangements to meal preparation.

If you want something a little more special or simpler, hosting the baby shower at a restaurant could be a great choice. Many people love the idea of gathering at a favorite restaurant, whether it’s for the food, ambiance, or simply because it holds special meaning to the parents-to-be. It also takes the pressure off the host, as the restaurant will handle the food and drinks. You only need to book a table or a private room, making it a hassle-free way to throw a party. This option is especially good if you want to keep the focus on the celebration rather than organizing all the details yourself.

Another option is renting a party venue. This can be ideal for those looking for a more formal setting or if you need a larger space. Many venues are specifically designed to host events like baby showers, so they come with staff to help with everything from seating arrangements to catering and decorations. It’s a more streamlined option that can take a lot of the stress off the host. Plus, you still have the flexibility to personalize the space with your own decorations and party favors to give it a personal touch.

For those who enjoy the outdoors, hosting a baby shower in a scenic location could offer a beautiful and relaxed atmosphere. A picnic in the park, a barbecue by the beach, or even a garden gathering can make for a memorable experience. Outdoor events are great for those who want a laid-back vibe, and you can make it casual by asking guests to bring a dish to share. It’s also a chance to enjoy the natural surroundings, but you’ll need to be mindful of the weather and make sure the location is comfortable for the mom-to-be, especially if she’s in her later stages of pregnancy.

There are so many great venues to choose from, and the best choice will depend on the parents-to-be’s personality and preferences. Whatever option you decide on, keeping the focus on the guest of honor and creating a comfortable, enjoyable space for everyone will ensure a successful celebration.

What are some good baby shower themes?

Once you’ve got the basics covered, it’s time for the fun part—choosing a baby shower theme! While having a theme isn’t mandatory, it can definitely add a special touch by helping tie together everything from the invitations to the decorations. A theme can give your celebration a unique personality and set the tone for the entire event.

A great place to start is by thinking about the parents-to-be’s interests, hobbies, and passions. The theme can be a reflection of their personalities, making the event even more meaningful.

Here are some theme ideas to inspire you:

Nature-Inspired: A woodland or floral theme is perfect for parents who love the outdoors. Think green leaves, floral arrangements, and earthy tones to create a serene, nature-filled vibe.
Travel-Themed: If the parents-to-be have a love for travel, a world theme could be a great fit. Decorate with globes, maps, and travel-inspired accents, turning the shower into a journey around the world.
Classic Cartoons: For a nostalgic feel, you could choose a theme based on the parents' favorite childhood cartoons, like Winnie the Pooh or The Little Mermaid. It’s a great way to add fun and whimsy to the event.
Safari or Dinosaurs: For a playful and adventurous theme, consider a safari or dinosaur shower. Think animal prints, stuffed animals, and roaring good times!
Circus or Carnival: Bright colors, balloons, and a playful atmosphere make a circus or carnival theme a fun, lighthearted choice for a baby shower. Think cotton candy, popcorn, and carnival games.
Tea Party: A refined and elegant theme that features dainty cups, pastel colors, lace, and delicate finger foods. Perfect for a cozy, intimate shower with close friends and family.
Superheroes: For parents who love comic books or action-packed movies, a superhero theme might be the way to go. Decorate with superhero colors, logos, and even mini capes for the guests.
Seasonal Themes: You can tailor the theme to the season of the baby shower. For example:
- Summer: Bees, sunflowers, and a BBQ or picnic vibe.
- Autumn: Pumpkins, browning leaves, and warm, cozy colors.
Gender-Neutral: If you’re looking for a theme that works for any baby, you can go for colors or motifs that aren’t tied to gender. Ideas include:
- Fairytale (think castles and magic)
- Boho (dream catchers, feathers, and earthy tones)
- Bunny (soft, pastel colors and cute little rabbits)

The options are endless, so think about what feels most true to the parents-to-be. Whichever theme you choose, be sure to finalize it a few weeks before the shower so you have time to plan, shop for decorations, make invitations, and order any special details like flowers or custom items.

What to wear to a baby shower

When it comes to dressing for a baby shower, the key is to strike the right balance between comfort and style. While the dress code for a baby shower is usually smart casual, it’s always a good idea to check if there are any specific themes or dress guidelines on the invitation. This can help ensure you’re in line with the vibe of the event, especially if group photos or themed activities are part of the plan. For example, if the shower has a specific color scheme or theme—like a nautical, floral, or even a casual BBQ—this might inform your outfit choice.

For guests, smart casual is often a safe bet. Women might consider a dress or a nice blouse paired with slacks or a skirt, while men might opt for a button-up shirt or polo with chinos. Footwear should also be comfortable, especially if you’ll be standing, walking, or engaging in any activities. It’s always better to go for something practical yet polished, like flats, low heels, or stylish sneakers.

For the mom-to-be, comfort is even more important. After all, she’s likely been on her feet for a while already and will be interacting with lots of guests throughout the day. A comfy maternity dress, stretchy pants, or a flowy blouse could work great for a relaxed and chic look. If the shower involves games or activities, it’s also a good idea to wear shoes that are easy to move in, such as flats or supportive sandals. The goal is to feel at ease while celebrating this special occasion with friends and family.

Ultimately, remember that baby showers are about fun and celebration, so while it's nice to dress up, it’s most important to wear what makes you feel comfortable and confident. Whether you’re attending or hosting, the focus should be on the joy of the day, not worrying about what to wear.

What do you eat at a baby shower?

When planning the food for a baby shower, consider serving some of the mom-to-be's favorite dishes. If she’s craving comfort food, think mini sliders, fried chicken, mac and cheese, or lasagna—anything that’s easy to eat and share. Finger foods are perfect for a baby shower as they allow guests to mingle and snack without needing to sit down for a full meal.

If you want to get creative, you can also tie the menu to the theme or color palette of the shower. For example, if the theme is travel, you could serve dishes from around the world—think tapas, sushi, or Italian antipasti for a global flavor experience. Another option is to offer foods that match the colors of the décor, such as pastel cupcakes or fruit platters in the same shades as your theme.

For drinks, consider having a DIY cocktail and mocktail station, where guests can mix their own beverages or enjoy a non-alcoholic version. A fun idea is also to serve a batch of baby shower punch, which can be made in both alcoholic and non-alcoholic versions. This way, everyone has something refreshing to sip on throughout the celebration.

When it comes to dessert, there are endless options. You could keep it simple with a cake to pair with coffee or tea, or go all out with a dessert display featuring cupcakes, cookies, and cake pops. A candy bar or chocolate fountain can also add a sweet touch to the party, allowing guests to indulge in a little extra treat.

If the baby shower is being held at a restaurant, keep in mind that you'll likely need to choose from their menu. This could limit your options, so it’s worth considering hosting the shower at home or another venue if food is a particularly important aspect for the parent-to-be.

Whatever you decide to serve, the key is to keep it simple, fun, and tailored to the mom-to-be’s preferences so everyone can enjoy the food and make the day even more memorable.

Let the fun begin: baby shower games

When it comes to baby shower games, the key is to make them enjoyable for both the parents-to-be and their guests. Before diving into game ideas, check with the expectant parents to see if they’d like to incorporate games into the celebration. Once you have their approval, think about your guest list—if they all know each other well, you can dive straight into interactive and fun games. But if the group is diverse, it might be a good idea to start with something more relaxed to ease everyone in.

Once you know how many games you want, there are plenty of creative options to choose from. Just be sure to gather the necessary supplies and have small prizes ready for the winners—think gift cards, chocolates, or little treats.

Here are some fun game ideas:

Baby Shower Bingo: This timeless game has guests filling out bingo cards with guesses about the gifts the parents-to-be will receive. As gifts are opened, guests mark off their guesses. The first to complete a row gets a prize!
Who Knows Mommy Best?: In this trivia game, guests test how well they know the mom-to-be by answering a series of fun questions about her. The person with the most correct answers wins a prize!
Guess the Baby Photo: A great way to get everyone talking and laughing! Before the shower, ask guests to send in baby pictures of themselves. Then, divide them into teams and have them guess who’s who. It’s a fun icebreaker that gets everyone involved.
Guess the Gummy Bears: Fill a jar with gummy bears (or another small item) and have guests guess how many are inside. Give them a slip of paper to write down their guess and name, and at the end of the shower, reveal the winner. The closest guess wins a prize!
Diaper Raffle: Encourage guests to bring a pack of diapers and offer them a raffle ticket for each pack. At the end of the event, draw a winner to receive a fun prize.
Midnight Diapers: This thoughtful game has guests write funny or encouraging messages on the outside of diapers for the parents to read during late-night changes. It’s a sweet way to add a personal touch to those tiring nights.
Baby’s First ABC Book: A creative keepsake idea where guests draw or write something that corresponds with a letter of the alphabet (e.g., “C” for cuddles). The parents can then keep this as a memorable gift for their baby.
Parenting Advice: Ask guests to share their best pieces of parenting advice on slips of paper or napkins. These can be read by the parents later as a source of guidance and humor.
Family Traditions: Guests write down their favorite family traditions, which could inspire the parents-to-be with ideas for creating their own family memories.

No matter which games you choose, the goal is to make the shower fun, light-hearted, and full of memories. Whether they’re silly, creative, or just for laughs, baby shower games are a great way to bring everyone together and celebrate the soon-to-arrive little one!

Baby shower gifts

When it comes to baby shower gifts, a registry can be incredibly helpful for both the parents-to-be and the guests. It provides a clear idea of what the expectant parent(s) need and ensures that everyone receives something useful. The parents typically create the registry, but as the host, it’s important that you have all the necessary details to include on the invitations. That way, guests can easily access the registry and choose something that will be appreciated.

A baby registry often includes a mix of practical items and a few fun, special gifts. To make the process easier for guests, consider including a variety of price points, from essential items to a few splurges. This way, everyone can find something within their budget.

If you’re in need of inspiration, check out our gift guide for some great ideas. But if you’re looking for a quick rundown, here are some common items you’ll typically find on a baby registry:

Diapers, Wipes and Muslins: These are always a must-have and often go off the registry quickly. Consider adding different sizes of diapers so parents are prepared for every stage.
Baby Clothes: Onesies, sleepers, socks, and hats. Be sure to include a range of sizes as babies grow fast.
Baby Gear: Items like baby carriers, baby hammock, and high chairs can be pricey but are incredibly useful for new parents.
Nursery Essentials: Crib sheets, changing pads, and baby monitors are key items for setting up the baby’s space.
Feeding Supplies: Bottles, bottle warmers, nursing pillows, or bibs are often needed. Even items like breast pump accessories could be a great addition.
Toys and Books: While not immediately necessary, soft toys, baby books and teethers help stimulate a baby’s development.
Health and Safety Items: Baby thermometers, baby nail clippers, and safety gates are all helpful additions for any registry.
Personalized Gifts: Things like custom blankets, baby memory books, or name signs for the nursery can add a personal touch to the baby’s first year.

Having a well-rounded registry ensures that guests have a variety of options and makes the gift-giving process much easier. Whether the parents choose practical essentials or something a little more sentimental, a baby shower registry helps make sure that the little one is well-prepared for their arrival!

To party favor or not?

Deciding whether to include party favors at your baby shower is completely up to you, and it’s not a must-have item. A thoughtful favor can be a lovely way to thank your guests for attending and to show your appreciation for their support. However, if you’re trying to keep things simple or working within a budget, it’s perfectly fine to skip the favors entirely. The focus of the day is the celebration, after all!

If you do choose to include favors, they don’t have to be extravagant. A small, personal gesture can leave a lasting impression without breaking the bank. One great option is to tie the favor into the theme of the baby shower. For example, if you're hosting a garden or spring-themed shower, you might consider giving guests small potted plants. For a beach or summer-themed shower, you could give out cute beeswax candles or beach-themed trinkets. Another easy option is to hand out small bags of candy or chocolate that guests can take home to enjoy later.

If you're looking for an idea that's both practical and meaningful, consider something that could benefit the parents-to-be. You could hand out mini hand sanitizers, personalized baby socks, or even a small pack of baby wipes with a cute label. These little gestures not only show your thanks but also tie into the theme of preparing for the baby’s arrival.

Overall, party favors are a lovely touch if you want to go the extra mile, but remember, they’re not necessary. The most important thing is that everyone enjoys the time spent together, and the memories created at the shower will last far longer than any small gift. Whether you opt for favors or not, your guests will surely appreciate the effort and thoughtfulness you put into hosting a memorable celebration.

The bottom line: celebrating the bump, the baby, and the journey ahead

Planning the perfect baby shower is all about celebrating the joy of a new arrival and creating lasting memories with friends and family. While there are many details to consider—from the venue and guest list to the theme and games—remember that the most important thing is to make the day enjoyable and meaningful for the parents-to-be. Whether you keep things simple or go all out with decorations, activities, and favors, what truly matters is the love and excitement shared throughout the celebration.

By following this guide, you'll have all the tools and inspiration you need to throw a baby shower that feels personal, fun, and unforgettable. So take a deep breath, enjoy the planning process, and get ready to celebrate the new addition to the family with a beautiful event that everyone will cherish.