Photo Credit: Home with Holly J
Planning a baby shower and not sure where to start? Below we are sharing our favorite tips and ideas for planning the perfect baby shower for any mama-to-be.
Set the budget: Baby showers expenses can add up quickly so having a budget in mind can help guide decision making. Expect to spend between $20-$25 per person on food, beverages, favors, decor etc.
Pick the date, time and location: If choosing a location outside of a home make a list of possible venues and call to check their availability and price.
Make the guest list: Work with the mama to be to create her guest list. It's a good idea to keep the names/addresses in a spreadsheet for easily tracking RSVPs.
Choose a baby shower theme. This is where planning gets fun! Choose a color palette and aesthetic that fits the mama-to-be. It doesn't have to be something super themey, just cohesive.
Photo Credit: Chloe, Jennifer Rae Photography, Kelsie Kristine
Create a to-do list: When planning any event it's important to stay organized so nothing is missed. Create a to-do list of everything that needs done before the shower and who is responsible for completing each task.
Order invitations: Now that the date, location and guest list are set it's time to order the baby shower invitations. Etsy is by far my favorite place to get party invitations. There are so many options to choose from no matter what your theme you're sure to find one that you love. You may also want to order matching thank you cards for mama to send out after her shower.
Day of schedule: Creating a schedule for the baby shower helps keep things organized and makes sure everyone knows what is going on and when.
Pick out decorations - When choosing decor you want it to all feel cohesive. I recommend having one main focal point for photo ops and for the mama to open gifts in front of versus a lot of small decor items. Below is a good starting point of items to purchase.
Table decor (table cloths, centerpeices)
Napkins, plates, cups, cutlery, servingware
Welcome sign
Banners / Balloon garland
Tables for food and beverages
Desert / cake table
Choose the menu: When planning what food to offer choose a menu that is universal and will be enjoyed by most people. Make sure to consult with the mama about any dietary restrictions. Pinterest of course is a resource to get recipes...the possibilities are endless. It's also a good idea to have a beverage station, if you are planning a brunch I love a momosa bar. And don't forget about deserts and/or a cake.
Logistics: It's important to make a plan of how many tables/chairs will be needed and map out where everything will be located in your home or venue. Typically you will need tables and chairs for guests to eat as well as a buffet table, desert/cake table, gift table and a beverage station. Don't forget a chair for the mom-to-be to sit at while opening gifts and a pen/notepad to write down who gifts are from.
Games: If you decide to have any games or activities during the baby shower you'll want to plan ahead and order supplies and prizes. Pinterest and Etsy are great resources for ideas and easy printables. Here are some ideas to get you started.
Baby predictions
Baby bingo
Baby word scramble
How big is her belly
Advice for the parents to be
Photo Credit: Rifle Paper
Favors: Baby shower favors can be hard to select as it needs to be something that a broad range of people will like. We did some searching and thought these were some great favor ideas that won't break the bank.
Cute notepad
Small Candle
Homemade jam / maple butter / honey
Linen spray
Succulent
Aromatherapy shower steamer
Facial mist
Don't forget to have fun celebrating the mom-to-be and take lots of photos!
