A baby shower is the first official celebration for your upcoming baby. Whether you’re the parent-to-be or bouncing baby shower ideas off your best friend, a fun and creative theme will make the day unforgettable.
With so many fantastic themes to choose from, the difficult part will be deciding which baby shower ideas to bring to life. To help you plan your own big day, we’ve rounded up our favorite motifs and concepts.
The Basics of Baby Showers
Before we get to some great baby shower ideas—including food, games, venues, and party favors—let’s start with the who, when, and what of baby showers.
Who Can Have and Host a Baby Shower?
Anyone welcoming a new child into their life can have a baby shower! That includes pregnant parents, adoptive parents, and anyone in between.
Typically, a close friend or family member will host the baby shower, but co-workers or other loved ones can also throw the party. While the parent-to-be can be involved in the planning, they typically don’t host their own baby shower. The host is usually in charge of organizing everything, allowing the expectant parents to relax and enjoy the event.
When Should You Throw a Baby Shower?
Even though baby showers are commonly held four to six weeks before the baby’s arrival, there is no "right" time to have one—but perhaps not immediately after announcing you’re having a baby. Traditional baby shower etiquette prescribes that invitations be sent at least four weeks before the party to give the host and guests enough time to prepare.
Some parents choose to have the baby shower earlier on while others wait until a week or two before the expected due date. The ideal time for your baby shower ultimately depends on what works best for you, your family, and the person hosting the event.
What Do You Do at a Baby Shower?
Baby showers help expecting parents get a head start on items such as diapers, baby clothes, and other necessities. Lalo's The Play Gym is perfect for newborn tummy time and sensory development, while art cards are great for stimulating a baby's vision and memory. Still, there is much more to do at a baby shower before the gift-giving segment.
In addition to preparing food and drinks, the host can schedule fun baby shower games and activities to keep guests entertained. Prepare advice cards or set up a message wall where guests can leave words of wisdom or wishes for the baby and parents. It is also customary for the expectant parents, grandparents, and host to give brief speeches at the end of the baby shower. Finally, as a nice gesture to thank everyone for coming, send them off with cute baby shower favors.
Now that we've gone over some baby shower rules, it's time to get to the fun part—baby shower ideas!
Baby Shower Ideas for an Amazing and Memorable Celebration
There are lots of terrific ways to commemorate your little one’s impending birth. Whether you want a classic event or a unique spin on timeless traditions, here are some baby shower ideas to inspire you.
1. Throw a Fun Co-Ed Baby Shower
Baby showers are traditionally only for women, but you can mix things up with a co-ed party that allows everyone to celebrate with the new parents—including fathers, brothers, friends, and colleagues.
If you go this route, think about neutral decorations and a variety of food and beverages that everyone will enjoy. Include baby shower games and activities that involve both partners and that most attendees will want to join. Run a baby bottle chugging contest where every player gets a baby bottle filled with milk, juice, soda, or beer—and whoever finishes their drink first wins.
With proper planning, a co-ed baby shower can be a fun break from the norm.
2. Choose a Practical Theme for Baby Shower Gifts
Instead of picking a theme that dictates decorations and outfits, why not mix it up and choose a theme for the gifts? Some of the most popular items are starter kits, baby clothes, diapers, and skincare products.
You can also easily create a baby registry on sites like Babylist. By setting up a baby shower registry, you can let loved ones know what you truly need and want. In return, your guests will appreciate knowing they're giving you something you'll enjoy and use. It is also an excellent way to avoid receiving duplicate presents.
Some parents even plan further in advance by adding a high chair and tableware to their registries. This way, they don't have to worry about purchasing those essential baby gear items when their little one is ready to start solids.
Here are some of the top registry must-haves from Lalo:
3. Enjoy the Fresh Air with an Outdoor Baby Shower
Unlike traditional baby showers held in the host's home or even in the home of the parents-to-be, you can now throw baby showers at various venues and even virtually.
If the weather forecast calls for sunny skies, why not host an outdoor baby shower? Being outside can completely transform your party, making it even more memorable and magical. You and your guests can enjoy a delightful picnic or a casual barbeque in your own backyard or garden or at a local park.
Make the most of the natural beauty surrounding you and keep everything else simple. Big balloons and pastel paper lanterns are always festive, and a bright, colorful centerpiece can really set the tone for a fun party. Run some outdoor baby shower games, too—like a water relay race, diaper toss, or balloon darts.
4. Set Up a Baby Shower Photo Booth
Are you looking for baby shower favor ideas? Instead of mason jar candles, personalized mugs, or candy boxes, give your guests a memorable keepsake with their faces on it.
Nowadays, a party isn't complete without a photo booth, some fun props, and a spectacular backdrop. From oversized bottles, pacifiers, and other baby gear to a customized frame with your baby’s name and due date, props can take your baby shower photo booth to the next level.
Don't forget to come up with a fun hashtag so the parents-to-be and guests can check out all the photos on social media after the shower.
5. Stay Connected with a Virtual Baby Shower
Although the concept has gained popularity recently, virtual baby showers are not entirely new. Many parents choose online celebrations to stay in touch with loved ones who cannot attend an in-person event.
While virtual baby showers aren't centered on food, guests are welcome to prepare a plate and eat at their leisure. Choose a digital platform like Zoom, and plan virtual baby shower games and other fun things you can do online.
For a unique approach, try a hybrid event that combines online and on-site elements. Some guests will attend your party in person, while others will participate online. This way, you can celebrate with everyone on your guest list and not leave anyone out.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, a baby shower is just another way to show your love and support for the expecting parents and their new baby. No matter who’s on your guest list, where you host the shower, or what you do during the event, make sure the parents-to-be feel cherished and cared for with an unforgettable experience, surrounded by their loved ones.
At Lalo, we’re committed to supporting families as they embark on their parenting journey. Check out our best baby shower gifts designed to make navigating the first years of parenthood easier.
And if you’re in New York City, you can celebrate your little one’s baby shower at Lalo Land! Get in touch with us to find out more about the packages.
