Baby Shower Ideas: Plan the Perfect Party Step by Step

A baby shower is one of the most exciting ways to celebrate a new arrival. It’s a chance to gather loved ones, play a few games, share laughs, and spoil the parent-to-be. Whether you’re planning for someone else or for yourself, this guide will help you do it with ease.

You’ll find creative baby shower ideas, tips for themes, decorations, food, and even baby shower games. We'll walk you through everything from choosing the right venue to creating keepsakes your guests will love. With a few smart steps, you'll throw a party that's joyful, memorable, and totally stress-free.

8 Steps to a Stress-free Baby Shower

Planning a baby shower doesn’t need to feel overwhelming when you have a simple structure to follow. By breaking it down into clear steps, you can enjoy the process and focus on making it meaningful. Here’s your simple checklist for how to have the best baby shower without losing sleep:

1. Choose the Right Location
2. Pick a Theme for the Occasion
3. Plan Your Guest List and Send Invitations
4. Choose Baby Shower Decorations to Set the Mood
5. Plan the Baby Shower Menu
6. Include a Special Baby Shower Cake
7. Keep Guests Entertained with Fun Games
8. Send Guests Home with a Keepsake

1. Choose the Right Location

Hosting a baby shower at home keeps things relaxed and personal, especially if you're aiming for a cosy, intimate vibe. It’s also budget-friendly and gives you full control over the layout, timing, and décor. If you're planning an outdoor event, you can explore garden party ideas for a lovely seasonal setup that works in your own backyard or a local park.

2. Pick a Theme for the Occasion

Choosing a baby shower theme makes everything feel more connected, from the invitations to the cake. Classic colours like pink and blue are always popular, but there are plenty of unique baby shower ideas if you want something different. Explore baby blue party supplies or ocean themes to match the tone you’re going for.

Here are a few easy and cheap baby shower ideas and themes:

• Storybook Adventures
• Boho Baby
• Rubber Ducks
• Safari or Jungle
• Rainbows and Clouds

3. Plan Your Guest List and Send Invitations

Start by writing down the names of people the guest of honour would be happiest to celebrate with. You can send baby shower invitations by post for a traditional touch or go digital for speed and ease. If some loved ones can’t attend in person, a virtual baby shower is a lovely way to include them in the fun.

4. Choose Baby Shower Decorations to Set the Mood

Baby shower decorations help create a warm, joyful atmosphere and set the tone for the day. From balloon garlands to themed napkins, everything should reflect your chosen style or baby shower themes. You can browse baby shower party supplies to find colourful and coordinated items that are easy to personalise, some ideas are:

• Custom welcome sign
• Balloon garland or arch
• Themed table settings
• DIY photo booth
• Memory table for baby wishes

5. Plan the Baby Shower Menu

You don’t need a full sit-down meal to impress your guests, simple, tasty bites will do the trick. Focus on finger foods and baby shower food ideas that are easy to prep and serve. Try to include a mix of sweet, savoury, and allergy-friendly options so everyone feels looked after.

If you enjoy getting creative, take a few ideas from a DIY kids party and design themed snacks that match your decorations. Shaped cookies, colour-coordinated treats, or personalised cupcake toppers are easy ways to add charm. It’s a small effort that makes a big visual impact.

Crowd-pleasing menu ideas:

• Mini quiches or finger sandwiches
• Fruit skewers and veggie platters
• Cupcakes or iced cookies
• Lemonade, mocktails, or herbal teas
• A grazing board with cheese and crackers

6. Include a Special Baby Shower Cake

The cake is often the centrepiece of the celebration, so make it one to remember. You can go with a classic sponge, a tiered masterpiece, or even cupcakes arranged into a fun shape. Use cake accessories like custom toppers, sprinkles, or glittery candles to tie it all together.

A “Baby in Bloom” theme might inspire a floral cake covered in buttercream flowers. A woodland baby shower could feature forest animals made of icing or chocolate leaves. Whatever your style, choose baby shower cake ideas that match the rest of your decorations.

Set up a sweet table if you want to go all out and make a statement. Include your cake, extra treats, and some themed plates or napkins for a polished look. You’ll love seeing everyone gather around it for photos and second helpings.

7. Keep Guests Entertained with Fun Games

Games bring energy, laughter, and help break the ice, especially if not everyone knows each other well. Choosing a mix of classic favourites and unique baby shower games ideas keeps things fun and memorable. A good balance of silly and sweet activities will make your event feel just right.

Popular baby shower games ideas include:

• Baby Bingo
• Who Knows Mum Best?
• Don’t Say “Baby”
• Baby Photo Guessing Game
• Diaper Design Contest

Use simple props or printables to set up the games quickly and keep things fun. To make things even easier, you can find baby party supplies that include ready-made kits, decorations, and prizes all in one place. It’s a great way to stay organised while keeping guests entertained.

8. Send Guests Home with a Keepsake

Baby shower keepsakes are a lovely way to thank your guests for coming and sharing in the celebration. These little tokens don’t have to be expensive, just thoughtful and tied to the day. Something simple and sweet will leave a lasting impression.

Sweet baby shower keepsake ideas:

• Mini jars of sweets or jam
• “Thanks for popping by” popcorn bags
• Scented candles or soap bars
• Succulent plants in little pots
• Personalised magnets or keyrings

You could also collect wishes or advice cards from guests during the shower. Keep them in a decorative box or scrapbook as a meaningful surprise for the parents-to-be. You might also give a few small gifts for baby to those who helped plan or host the event as a thank-you.

Baby Shower Planning Tips

Planning doesn’t have to be stressful if you take it step by step and stay organised. Sticking to your theme, prepping in stages, and asking for help when needed will keep things manageable. A simple checklist makes it easier to track what to prepare for baby shower success.

Helpful tips for easy baby shower ideas:

• Prep decorations the day before
• Label your serving dishes and drinks
• Use disposable tableware to reduce cleanup
• Keep extra chairs or picnic blankets nearby
• Make a playlist ahead of time for background music

Baby showers don’t need to be fancy or expensive to feel meaningful. Some of the most memorable ones are heartfelt, simple, and filled with laughter. It’s really all about celebrating the new arrival with love and intention.

FAQs

Can you plan your own baby shower?

Absolutely, and it’s more common than ever. Planning it yourself means you can choose the theme, guest list, and schedule that suits you best. Just ask a friend or family member to help on the day so you’re not juggling everything alone.

What do I need for a baby shower?

You’ll need invitations, decorations, food, drinks, a cake, and a few games to keep guests entertained. Make sure you also have enough seating, serving tools, and a space for gifts. Signs, labels, or a simple welcome board can help things feel organised.

What decorations do I need for a baby shower?

Decorations should reflect your theme and colour scheme to bring the space to life. Think balloons, banners, centrepieces, and matching tableware. Don’t forget extras like a photo area, a guestbook, or a baby shower card station.

What are some fun baby shower games to play?

Try baby shower games like Bingo, Name That Baby Tune, or Who Knows Mum Best for easy laughs. Diaper-changing races or blind baby food tasting add a playful touch. Choose two or three favourites to keep the energy up without overwhelming guests.