Throwing a baby shower
![Francesca Whiting](https://web.archive.org./web/20240805044920im_/https://assets.babycenter.com/ims/2021/09/Francesca-Whiting-800x800.jpg?width=80)
![A pregnant woman receives gifts from friends at her baby shower .](https://web.archive.org./web/20240805044920im_/https://assets.babycenter.com/ims/2016/05/ThinkstockPhotos-498800390_wide.jpg?width=1026)
- Who should host the baby shower?
- When should the baby shower be held?
- Where should we hold the baby shower?
- What kind of invitations are right for a baby shower?
- What should we do at the baby shower?
- How big should the budget be?
- Who should be on the invitation list for the baby shower?
- Can I throw a shower for the expectant mum and dad?
- Is it OK to throw a baby shower for a second child?
- Is a surprise baby shower a good idea?
Who should host the baby shower?
It used to be considered bad manners for a family member to throw a shower because it might seem like you're asking for presents. But these days, just about anything goes. Any relative, close friend, or close work colleague should feel perfectly happy about planning your baby shower.
When should the baby shower be held?
Any time after conception is fine, but most mums-to-be appreciate a shower later in pregnancy. By then, she can feel more confident that all is going well. And a party can be a welcome diversion as the months tick by. Besides, it makes it seem more real if the mum-to-be is touting a big belly.
Before setting a date for the party, talk to guests you really want to be there. They may be able to warn you about any prior commitments.
You may also have to take into account the prior commitments of grandparents, if you want them to come too. Nothing is worse than planning a party and sending out invitations, only to find that the most important people can't make it.
If the mum-to-be decides to have the shower after the baby is born, that's fine, too. Then guests can bring gifts specific to the baby's sex. And with a newborn baby to fuss over, there will be lots to talk about!
Where should we hold the baby shower?
You need to consider the location before deciding on how many people to invite. Ideally, the party shouldn't be held at the mum-to-be's house. It's not fair for her to have to worry about cleaning up before everyone arrives and after they've gone. If the mum-to-be does want to be at home, you could ask a few of the guests if they'll stay behind to help clear up.
You could ask around to see if anyone else is prepared to host the event at their home. If not, think of booking a room at a community hall or local pub, or having tea and cake at your favourite cafe.
What kind of invitations are right for a baby shower?
You can send traditional invitations by post, or invite the guests on social media, WhatsApp or email.
Find out if the expectant parents have created a registry with a baby shop or department store. Or they may already have a list of essential items they need which the guests can purchase for them. If so, you can share that with the guests when you invite them. Or offer the information when guests RSVP.
Plan to send invitations out early enough to give the guests at least a few weeks' notice. This should give them enough time to work the shower into their calendar and shop for the perfect present.
What should we do at the baby shower?
Before finalising your activities, consider the following:
- You may want to choose a theme to tie everything together. Although it's not necessary, it can help you make decisions about the various elements of the party and it's often fun for guests.
- You'll probably want to serve some kind of food and drink, depending on the time of day, your budget, and how formal or casual you want the shower to be.
- Baby showers usually aren't complete without some fun or silly games. But don't worry if your guests aren't the competitive types, there are plenty of other kinds of activities to keep them entertained.
- It's common to give a goody bag to everyone who attends a baby shower, or you can just offer individual prizes to guests who win games.
How big should the budget be?
If you don't want to pay for the whole thing yourself, the best way to cover the cost is to ask each guest to chip in. When working out how much it might add up to, factor in the following:
- The main gift, if you all want to contribute to a bigger, combined present.
- Food, drinks, paper plates, cups, knives and forks.
- Going-home goody bags.
- Prizes for games.
- Venue hire.
- Decorations.
- Cake.
Who should be on the invitation list for the baby shower?
If you're hosting the shower for a close friend, you probably have a good idea of who you’ll need to invite. However, it’s best to consult with the guest of honour before finalising your list. That way you'll avoid leaving out someone important or inviting someone your friend would rather not include.
Can I throw a shower for the expectant mum and dad?
Although many baby showers are still for women only, baby showers for both women and men are becoming more popular. Some dads even have their own, separate, baby shower. It really depends on the type of party you're planning.
Is it OK to throw a baby shower for a second child?
Showers for a second or subsequent baby are becoming more common. There’s always reason to celebrate a new baby, whether it’s a large or small affair. If there’s a wide age gap between the children, parents may be appreciative of receiving items that they have already given away or thrown out from overuse.
Sometimes parties for second or subsequent babies are called "baby sprinkles". Think of it as a scaled-down version of a full shower. So, for example, instead of a party with games and activities, think about throwing an afternoon picnic in the park or preparing a delicious brunch for close family and friends.
Is a surprise baby shower a good idea?
A word of caution: think long and hard before deciding to throw a surprise party. If the parents-to-be don't like surprises, they may feel awkward and the party may not be as memorable as you'd hoped.
Unless you're sure they'd appreciate your efforts, it's safer to let them in on the arrangements. That way you can be confident that the stars of the baby shower will be pleased with the outcome.
Get even more great baby shower tips:
- Read how to keep your guests entertained.
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![Francesca Whiting](https://web.archive.org./web/20240805044920im_/https://assets.babycenter.com/ims/2021/09/Francesca-Whiting-800x800.jpg?width=300)
Francesca Whiting is digital content executive at BabyCentre. She’s responsible for making sure BabyCentre’s health content is accurate, helpful and easy to understand.