Baby Shower Planner
Preparing your personalised planning experience...
Every recommendation is built from professional event planning standards and verified against leading resources including Babylist, Pampers, and Minted. A home shower for 15 gets a different plan than a restaurant event for 40. A surprise shower includes coordination tips that a traditional shower does not need. No generic checklists. Just what you need, when you need it.
Planning Timeline
Early Planning (8 to 12 Weeks Before)
- Consult with the parents to be on preferences, theme, and guest list boundaries
- Set your budget and decide if costs will be split among co-hosts
- Build the complete guest list with names, contacts, and dietary information
- Reserve your venue or confirm home availability for the chosen date
- The ideal time to host is when the parent is 28 to 32 weeks pregnant
Invitations and Menu (6 to 8 Weeks Before)
- Send digital invitations with RSVP tracking so you know exactly who is coming
- Select and commit to a theme that guides your decoration and cake choices
- Plan the menu with a mix of sweet and savoury finger foods
- Collect dietary requirements through your RSVP form, not as an afterthought
- Order the cake or plan your dessert display
Games and Details (3 to 4 Weeks Before)
- Plan 2 to 3 games maximum. Over-programming is the most common mistake
- Follow up with guests who have not RSVPed
- Finalise decorations, party favours, and game prizes
- Confirm all vendor orders and catering arrangements
Final Preparations (1 to 2 Weeks Before)
- Lock in the final headcount and update all orders
- Prep any make-ahead food items
- Do a venue walkthrough or home preparation checklist
- Prepare a day-of timeline: arrival (15 min), food, games, gifts, wind-down
Day Of and After
- Set up the space 2 hours before guests arrive
- Keep the parent to be comfortable with the best seat and easy access
- Designate someone to take photos throughout the event
- Send personalised thank you messages within 2 to 3 weeks
Expert Planning Tips
Host at 28 to 32 weeks pregnant
This is the sweet spot. The parent is far enough along to celebrate but comfortable enough to enjoy the event. Earlier is safer since babies sometimes arrive early.
Two to three games, not five
Over-programming is the most cited mistake in baby shower planning. Leave space for natural conversation and spontaneous moments. These are often the most memorable parts of the day.
Do not host at the parents' home
When the shower is at their home, the parent to be ends up cleaning, cooking, and hosting instead of being celebrated. Let them be the guest of honour.
Collect dietary info on the RSVP
Asking about allergies and dietary needs through the invitation saves hours of coordination and prevents catering surprises on the day.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should you have a baby shower?
The ideal time is 4 to 8 weeks before the due date, when the parent is 28 to 32 weeks pregnant. This timing allows them to enjoy the celebration while still being comfortable. Avoid scheduling in the last 4 weeks as babies sometimes arrive early.
How many games should a baby shower have?
Two to three games spread across 2 to 3 hours is the sweet spot. Over-programming is the most common planning mistake. Popular choices include baby bingo, blindfolded diaper changing, and guess the baby food. Leave time for natural conversation between activities.
Who traditionally hosts a baby shower?
Traditionally, a close friend, sister, or relative hosts, not the expectant parent. Modern etiquette allows anyone to host, including the parents themselves. Co-hosting to split costs and responsibilities is common and encouraged.
How much does a baby shower cost?
A budget home shower costs $150 to $400. A mid-range shower averages around $550. A catered event for 35 to 50 guests at a venue can range from $1,100 to $3,500. Food and drinks typically account for 30 to 40% of the total budget.
Are second baby showers appropriate?
Yes. Modern etiquette fully supports showers for second and subsequent children. A smaller, less formal celebration called a "sprinkle" is the preferred format. The focus shifts more toward celebrating the parent than collecting gifts.
What should you include on a baby shower invitation?
Include the date, time, location, RSVP deadline, host contact, and any theme or dress code. Registry information should be shared separately when guests ask, not on the invitation itself. Always include a way for guests to note dietary requirements.