Preparing for a baby shower can be an exciting and fun experience for both the parents-to-be and the hosts. Here are some tips and ideas to help you plan and prepare for a memorable and enjoyable baby shower; be it for yourself or a beloved mother to be in your life.
1. Choose a date and time:
Baby showers are most commonly be held in the third trimester, between 28 and 36 weeks of pregnancy. Choose a time and date that works for the parents-to-be and important guests like family and close friends.
2. Decide on a venue:
You can host the baby shower at home or choose a venue like a community centre, restaurant, or park. Make sure the venue has enough space to accommodate all the guests comfortably. Make sure there's enough room for prams and/or kids to play safely, if you want little ones to join you.
3. Choose a theme:
Themes can add an extra level of fun and excitement to the baby shower (or baby sprinkle, for subsequent pregnancies). Popular themes include gender reveals, nursery rhymes, and baby animals. Choose decorations, and even food, that fit the theme.
4. Send out invitations:
Send out invitations at least one month in advance, and include all the necessary details like date, time, location, and theme. You can create your own invitations or use an online service like Evite, Canva or Paperless Post.
5. Plan the menu:
Consider the time of day and the theme when planning the menu, and make sure you have a few pregnancy-safe options for the mother to be. Finger foods and charcuterie boards are always a hit, and don't forget non-alcoholic drinks for Mum, too.
6. Plan the games and activities:
Games and activities are a great way to break the ice and keep the guests entertained. Some popular games include a baby item memory game, name the baby (guests can bring their baby photos), predict the due date/gender, and guess the baby food flavour, or baby-themed Pictionary. You can also have a craft station where guests can decorate bibs, onesies or cards for the baby.
7. Thank you gifts:
Thank you gifts are a great (optional) way to thank your guests for coming and can be a fun way to tie in the theme. Gifts can be items like personalised cookies, mini succulents, and customised candles. Another fun idea is small bottles of sparkling wine for the guests to hold onto, and toast when the baby is born. Pop when Mum pops!
8. Set up the venue:
On the day of the baby shower make sure to set up the venue with decorations, tables, chairs, and any games or activities. Don't forget to designated a space for gifts. If you need some baby shower gift ideas, we've listed some unique options.
9. Enjoy the day:
Once everything is set up, it's time to enjoy the day! Take lots of pictures, and don't forget to thank your guests for coming and the parents-to-be for sharing this special time with you.
