Planning a baby shower is a lot like planning a wedding. You’ll want it to be perfect for the couple you’re celebrating, but there are a lot of details to contend with. Here’s an easy-to-follow how to plan a baby shower checklist to reference throughout the entire process.
You can actually throw it before or after the baby’s arrival! If you prefer before, it’s recommended it be one to two months ahead of the baby’s arrival date. This gives most parents-to-be enough time to organize the shower gifts, put together anything that requires assembly (like a bassinet or swing), wash any clothes or toys and put everything in its place.
If the couple prefers a shower after the baby’s arrival, often called a “Sip & See,” you’ll want to give the family enough time to settle in with their new addition and determine what gifts may still be needed. In this scenario, the shower could be anywhere from three to eight weeks post-baby arrival, or even later.
You might choose a spot with sentimental value for the parents-to-be (perhaps on the college campus where they met!) or a location that is convenient for most attendees or a space that offers everything you need right on-site.
Create a Baby RegistryMake sure the parents-to-be have a registry! It doesn’t necessarily have to be finished, but it should be by the time the invitations go out, because that’s when guests will start thinking about what to give.
The couple can decide what the tone of the shower is. Adults only? Kids allowed? Mixed gender? There are no hard and fast rules. The only thing you’ll want to keep in mind is the venue’s capacity.
Once you’ve handled all the nitty gritty details, it’s time for the fun part: planning the party! Though not necessary, a theme is a great way to engage guests. You can turn to a favorite children’s book, a cute animal (such as owls, rabbits or storks) or the baby’s due date (for a fall or winter baby shower, for example) for inspiration.
Send InvitationsAt least four weeks before the event, send the invitations. Include essential information such as the time, date, location, honoree and host as well as RSVP details and registry information. If you have a theme, the invitations are a great way to introduce that to your guests!
Consider incorporating a few of the mom-to-be’s favorite foods, or choose a menu that sticks with the theme or color palette.
For drinks, try DIY cocktails and mocktails or a batch of a specialty punch.
Set the Tone with DecorationsBaby shower decorations can be as elaborate (a welcome sign, table centerpieces and balloons) or as simple (beautiful flowers) as you’d like. We also recommend focusing your efforts – whether it’s a photo wall or a diaper cake. Both of those add visual interest that really get people talking!
Games can help round out a baby shower’s itinerary and break the ice for your guests. It can be one big activity, like jointly decorating a onesie or a number of smaller baby shower games like guess which parent or sharing advice for the parents-to-be. It doesn’t need to break the bank either! There are plenty of printable baby shower games available online.
Though not necessary, favors are a nice way to thank guests for joining in on the celebration. Consider a small potted plant, scented hand cream or a candle. You can even send guests home with something from the event, like a small vase with flowers from the tables or a bag of candy from the dessert buffet.
If this how to plan a baby shower checklist seems like a lot to do, it’s because it is! But St. Bonavenue is here to help! Our dedicated event management team can guide you every step of the way. We offer on-site catering, A/V services, and equipment rentals for a seamless event experience.
Talk to us about your event today! We will work hard to bring your unique taste, style and budget together for an event that leaves a lasting impression on your friends and family.