What is a Baby Shower & How to Plan One: Aden + Anais' Guide
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3 min
Expecting parents aren’t the only ones excited when there’s a baby on the way! Grandparents, aunts, uncles, siblings, cousins, friends, and other loved ones will also be excited and ready to celebrate the new bundle of love.
The perfect way to do that is with a celebration like a baby shower! Keep reading to learn answers to questions like “what is a baby shower,” “what do you do at a baby shower,” “when do you have a baby shower,” and more!
Types of baby showers
Traditional Baby Shower
This is one of the more common baby shower types. A traditional baby shower is usually gendered theme or gendered neutral with mom-to-be as the guest of honor and primarily women in attendance. However, nowadays we are seeing more and more hostesses including dad as well in the festivities.
A Sprinkle
This is typically a small baby shower (hence while it’s called a “sprinkle” as opposed to a full on “shower”). These low-key events are typically held for a mom’s second, third, fourth child. It can be especially helpful for parents who are having a baby of a different gender than they already have.
Post Baby Shower
Also referred to as a “sip-and-see,” this type of baby shower is held after a baby is born. It is intended for close friends and family to come meet the new little one, bring gifts, and enjoy light refreshments.
When to have a baby shower
There’s no specific rule or answer to the question of “when should you have a baby shower?” It all comes down to your schedule and personal preference.
Typically, traditional baby showers take place 4-6 weeks before the due date. This is because the later in pregnancy a woman is her chances of miscarriage or complications decrease. Plus, at that point, the expecting parents will be starting to get their home prepared and ready for their new bundle of joy!
How to throw a baby shower
The expectant parent does not typically host or plan their own baby shower. The planning is usually done by a loved one or a combination of loved ones. So first, you need to determine who is going to be hosting the shower and check with the parent-to-be on dates, locations, style, and any ideas they might have.
How to plan a baby shower
After deciding who is throwing the shower and getting the all clear from the guest of honor, it’s time to start planning! Here’s a simple step-by-step suggestion for getting the baby shower planning process going:
- Determine the basics. Think who, what, when, and where (and be sure to include the expecting parent in the process)
- Make out a guest list. If you’re wondering, “how many people to invite to baby shower?” The answer is–it’s totally up to you, the expecting parents, and size of your location! The size of a baby shower can vary from a few close friends to 50 people if you would like.
- Determine the baby shower theme. This is where you can have a lot of fun and be creative! Learn more about baby shower themes in the next section below.
- Purchase theme supplies, including decorations and invitations.
- Send out invitations! Be sure to do this at least a month before the event.
- Plan the menu. You can stick to the theme or whatever the parents-to-be enjoy/prefer.
- Plan the activities. Again, you’ll want to get the parents-to-be input on what they would prefer. Many choose to play baby-themed games with small prizes for their guests such as bobbing for dummys, nappy change relay race, or baby shower bingo,
- Purchase or make decorations, baby shower favours, and flowers.
- Put it all together on baby shower day!
Baby shower themes
When it comes to picking a baby shower theme, it can be hard because there are so many fun choices! You’ll want to consider what the expecting parents like and enjoy or are passionate about. You’ll also want to find out if they are wanting a gender themed shower or wanting to keep it more gender neutral.
Theme Ideas
Oh Baby!
A classic theme with a modern twist, featuring elegant decor in pastel colors and chic designs.
Teddy Bear Picnic
Cute teddy bears, picnic blankets, and outdoor vibes create a charming and cozy atmosphere.
Nautical
Ocean blues, mermaid scales, and sea creatures set the scene for a splashy celebration.
Woodland
Think forest animals, greenery, and rustic touches for a cozy, nature-inspired shower.
Garden Party
Fresh flowers, garden lanterns, and outdoor settings for a beautiful, nature-inspired celebration.
