A baby shower is one of the most joyful celebrations for expectant parents, filled with love, laughter, and sweet memories.
Whether you're hosting your best friend's shower or planning your own, knowing how to plan a baby shower can make all the difference in creating a smooth, stress-free, and memorable event.
This step-by-step guide will walk you through everything from baby shower invitations to décor, games, and more, so the mom-to-be and guests can focus on celebrating the upcoming arrival of a precious new baby.
In most cases, close friends, family members, or coworkers take on the task of baby shower planning.
While most baby showers are traditionally hosted by someone other than the parents-to-be, modern etiquette allows the expectant mother or even the father-to-be to take part in organizing the event. Sometimes, multiple hosts work together to throw a perfect baby shower.
Your baby shower checklist should start with determining how much you’re able to spend. Consider venue costs, food and drinks, baby shower favors, decorations, and games.
Setting a realistic budget upfront helps you make thoughtful choices and keep things budget-friendly.
Choosing the right location is key to creating the vibe you want. Whether it’s a backyard brunch, a restaurant party, or a luxury vacation rental, the venue should feel comfortable and festive.
Ask yourself questions like: How many guests are you expecting? Do you need indoor and outdoor space? Is there room for a dessert table, gift-opening area, or photo booth?
At Wander, we offer luxury baby shower rentals featuring hotel-grade amenities with the privacy of a home, including personal chefs, concierge services, and stunning spaces designed for celebrating.
A baby shower theme adds personality and fun to the event. From classic pink-and-blue motifs to trendy gender-neutral ideas like “Twinkle Twinkle Little Star” or “Baby in Bloom,” there are countless options.
The shower theme will help guide your choices for invitations, table centerpieces, baby shower decorations, and even things like custom cookies and DIY favors.
Work with the guest of honor to finalize the guest list, including family members, friends, and coworkers. Be sure to ask the expectant parents if they want a co-ed party or a ladies-only gathering.
Once the list is ready, send printed invites or digital ones at least 4–6 weeks in advance. The baby shower invitations should match the theme and include important info like date, time, location, and baby registry details.
Décor is one of the most fun parts of planning. Think balloon arch, themed banners, floral arrangements, or even mini succulents as centerpieces.
Incorporate baby bottles, cute signage, and personal touches to create a welcoming and festive atmosphere. Don't forget about setting up a cozy corner for opening gifts.
Keep all the guests entertained with fun baby shower games. Classics like Baby Bingo, a diaper raffle, “Guess the Baby Food,” or “Who Knows Mommy Best?” always get laughs.
Include a mix of active and quieter games so everyone can join in, especially the mother-to-be, who might be in her third trimester.
Delicious food is a must! Depending on your venue and budget, opt for finger foods, sweet treats, a dessert table, or a full catered meal.
If you're hosting in a luxury home rental, you might have access to a state-of-the-art kitchen or even a private chef. Don’t forget beverages: mocktails, tea, or mimosas make lovely additions.
Include the baby registry link in the invitations and on reminder emails or texts to make it easy for guests to bring the perfect baby items.
You can even set up a registry display with printed wish lists or QR codes at the event. If you're creating the registry yourself, include essentials the new parents will need once the baby arrives, and don’t forget to say thank you!
Create a budget
Build a guest list
Decide on a venue, date & time
Pick a baby shower theme
Order or prepare baby shower invitations
Send invitations
Buy baby shower decorations
Order cake (if applicable)
Verify catering and reservations (if applicable)
Arrange entertainment (if applicable)
Follow up on RSVPs
Check for guest allergies and intolerances
Prepare baby shower favors
Buy or make baby shower games
Open and check decorations
Plan where everything will go in the room/venue
Send reminders to helpers
Create a grocery list (if applicable)
Wash and prep food containers (if making and transporting food yourself)
Considerations: weather
Buy food and prep it (if applicable)
Chill cold beverages
Pack decorations, games, and any party favors
Pack food and drink
Transport everything you need to the venue early
Decorate the venue
Prepare and display food and drink
Prepare a baby shower gift station
Final touches
Enjoy!
The right venue can make or break your baby shower. That’s why Wander’s high-end vacation rentals are perfect for both intimate gatherings and grand celebrations. With scenic backdrops, stylish lounges, and state-of-the-art kitchens, your baby shower party will be effortless, elegant, and full of joy.
Wander properties offer the perfect combination of luxury and convenience, from coastal retreats in Oregon to serene lakefront escapes in Georgia, and modern homes in California. All homes feature hotel-grade amenities with the privacy of a home, including concierge services, personal chefs, and beautiful spaces tailored for celebrating life’s biggest moments.
Whether you’re planning a baby shower, gender reveal party, or even a wedding party, Wander homes provide an unmatched backdrop for making memories that last a lifetime.
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