Do we want to have a baby shower?

minute read

medically reviewed by

What's a baby shower?

A baby shower is a celebration for the arrival of your little one, where friends and family gather to give gifts and support the parents-to-be. It can be formal or casual and often includes games, food, and fun activities.

Typically, close friends or family host the shower, but some couples choose to host their own or decide not to have one at all.

Why you might want to have one

A baby shower can be a great way to create lasting memories with loved ones, making it a heartwarming experience.

It also provides practical support for new parents. A shower allows friends and family to help you stock up on these items, often buying from your registry or sharing their favorite products. This can save you money and give you peace of mind, knowing you have what you need for your little one.

Finally, it’s an opportunity for experienced parents to offer helpful advice, making you feel more prepared for parenthood.

Why you might want to opt out

If you're thinking about hosting your own baby shower, it can be stressful and costly, especially while managing pregnancy and budgeting for your baby. One way to ease this is by having a small DIY celebration.

Family dynamics can also make things tricky. If there are tensions among family members, a baby shower might not feel comfortable. It’s not required, so celebrate in a way that feels right for you both.

Alternatives to traditional showers

If a traditional baby shower isn’t right for you, there are alternatives to consider. One option is a virtual baby shower, ideal for including loved ones who are far away. This allows you to enjoy games, meaningful conversations, and special moments with friends and family from home.

Another alternative is to have a smaller, more intimate gathering with just your closest friends and family. This can be a relaxed celebration, like a casual brunch, a backyard barbecue, or afternoon tea. The focus here is on spending quality time with those who matter most rather than hosting a large event.

Discussing your preferences

Take some time to discuss your feelings about a baby shower. Do you imagine a traditional event with games and gifts, a relaxed gathering with close family and friends, or skipping it altogether? Would you like it to focus on the mom-to-be or both of you?

Be open to each other’s ideas. If you have different preferences, that’s okay! Use this as a chance to find a compromise. For example, if one of you wants a big party while the other prefers something smaller, you could have an intimate shower now and a larger celebration later.

Whatever you decide, it should bring you joy and reflect your values.

Planning your baby shower

If you decide to have a baby shower, the first step is to identify whether you’ll host it or if a loved one wants to host one for you. Next, consider the following factors:

Timing

‍Discuss when you want to have your shower. You may want to have a shower in your third trimester, when you’re nearing your due date. However, if the idea of being the center of attention feels overwhelming or tiring late in pregnancy, consider hosting it earlier.

Budget

‍Set a budget based on the number of guests, whether you want a casual or elaborate event, and what food and decorations you’ll need.

Guest list

‍Decide if you want to invite close friends and family or a wider circle. Your guest list will influence the vibe and budget of the event.

Venue

‍The venue choice will depend on your budget and guest count:

Homes & parks: If you want a smaller, more personal gathering, consider hosting at home or in a park. This allows for cozy decorations and a relaxed atmosphere.
Event spaces: Renting a banquet hall or community center can be ideal for larger guest lists. These venues often provide tables and staff to assist with setup and cleanup.
Restaurants: Many restaurants offer private dining areas, allowing guests to enjoy a meal together without the hassle of food prep.

Theme & decorations

A theme isn't required but can make the shower more fun. The possibilities are endless, whether you prefer a traditional pastel, gender-themed shower, something unique like a book theme, or a gender-neutral vibe. Popular themes include animals, storybooks, and trendy options like boho or eco-friendly.

Check out these resources for inspiration:

‍Invitations & gift registry

Choose between paper or digital invitations and send them out at least a month in advance. If you have a gift registry, include a link. Creating a registry is optional but can help guests pick gifts you need. Register at a few stores or suggest items like books, diapers, or baby gear.

DIY Food: If you enjoy cooking, making your own food can be cost-effective and allow for customization.
Catering Service: Hiring a caterer can ease the stress for larger groups. They offer menu options and can accommodate dietary needs.
Ready-to-Eat Items: Grocery stores offer snacks and appetizers that can be quickly prepared and served.