A baby shower is the perfect moment to put the parents-to-be in the spotlight before the little one arrives. With this seven-step plan, you organize a party they'll never forget.
Step 1: Set the date
Plan the baby shower ideally four to six weeks before the due date. That way the bump is nicely round, but there's still little risk of an early arrival. Too early and the party doesn't quite feel real yet, too late and you risk the baby beating you to it. Prefer a weekend, when most guests are free.
Step 2: Choose a theme
A theme makes organizing easier, because it immediately gives direction to the decorations, cake and invitations. Popular themes are jungle, stars, rainbow, or simply the colors of the nursery. It doesn't have to be complicated; a coherent color scheme alone often already does a lot.
Step 3: Make a guest list
Talk with the mother-to-be about who should be invited. This is her party, so let her help decide who's there. Also keep the size of the venue in mind: an intimate living room calls for a smaller group than a rented hall.
Step 4: Send creative invitations
Digital invitations are eco-friendly and practical. Add a link right away to an online wish page where guests can already leave their congratulations. That way the collecting of warm words starts even before the party itself begins.
Step 5: Plan fun games
Classics are guess-the-bump, baby bingo, or drinking from bottles against the clock. Mix active and quieter activities, so there's something fun for every type of guest, including those who prefer not to be in the spotlight. Two to four games is usually enough.
Step 6: Arrange delicious food
Think finger food, a beautiful cake and plenty of drinks. Don't forget to ask about any allergies, and be sure to provide non-alcoholic options too; the mother-to-be is there as well, after all.
Step 7: Collect lasting memories
Have guests write down their wishes, tips and advice. A digital wish page is perfect for that: guests can add photos and videos that the parents can look back on later, and anyone who couldn't be there can still leave a message.
Tips from experienced organizers
Start organizing at least four weeks in advance.
Ask other guests for help with tasks like decorations or food.
Take photos and videos during the party itself.
Keep one activity calm for the mother-to-be.
With an online wish page you collect all the loving messages in one place, a gift that will be treasured for years.
Frequently asked questions
What if the mother-to-be would rather not be surprised?
Not every mother-to-be loves surprises; some would rather be involved in the planning themselves. Just ask instead of assuming what she wants, so you avoid a party that creates more stress than joy.
Is it appropriate to invite the partner to a baby shower too?
That's becoming more and more common. Some baby showers are still women-only, but mixed parties where partners are welcome too are growing in popularity.
Who usually organizes the baby shower?
Often a close friend, a sister or the partner of the mother-to-be. It's not usual for the mother-to-be to organize her own baby shower, though she does like to have a say in the guest list and the theme.
