The Ultimate Guide to an Unforgettable Baby Shower: Decorating, Planni

The Ultimate Guide to an Unforgettable Baby Shower: Decorating, Planning, and More

April 09 2025
7 min reading time

Organizing a baby shower: everything you need to know

A baby shower is a special opportunity to celebrate and pamper the expectant parent(s) before the little one arrives. Whether you are hosting a baby shower for the first time or are looking for fresh ideas, this guide will help you on your way to a successful party. An important part of any baby shower is of course the baby shower decorations , which transform the room into a festive setting.

What exactly is a baby shower?

A baby shower is a party to celebrate the upcoming birth of a baby. Traditionally, it is an occasion where friends and family gather to shower the expectant mother with gifts, advice, and support. Today, baby showers come in many different forms, from traditional ladies' parties to modern celebrations where men are also welcome.

Who organizes a baby shower?

Traditionally, a baby shower is organized by a close friend, family member or colleague of the expectant mother - but not by the pregnant woman herself or her partner. The organizer usually covers the costs, although it is now also common for several friends or family members to share the costs.

In some cases, expectant parents choose to host their own baby shower, especially if they have a specific theme or concept in mind. There are no hard and fast rules - the important thing is that it is an enjoyable experience for the expectant parent(s).

When do you organize a baby shower?

The ideal timing for a baby shower is between 28 and 36 weeks of pregnancy. At that time:

Is the pregnancy already clearly visible?
Does the expectant mother usually still feel energetic enough?
Is there still enough time to unwrap presents and give them a place?
Is the risk of premature birth smaller?

Some people wonder if 30 or 32 weeks is too late or too early, but this period falls right in the ideal window. Having a baby shower at 28 weeks is fine, while 3 weeks of preparation time for organizing is usually sufficient.

Who do you invite to a baby shower?

The guest list depends on the wishes of the expectant parent(s) and the available space. Usually invited are:

Immediate family
Good friends
Possibly colleagues
Sometimes neighbors

The average baby shower has between 10 and 20 guests, but intimate celebrations with just 5 guests or larger parties with 30+ people are also possible. The most important thing is that the expectant parent(s) feel comfortable with the group size.

Are men welcome at a baby shower?

Traditionally, baby showers were mostly women's affairs, but these days there are more and more 'co-ed' baby showers where both men and women are welcome. Some couples even choose to have a 'dadchelor party' or 'man shower' - the male version of a baby shower especially for the father-to-be and his friends.

There is no right or wrong answer to the question of whether men are welcome – it depends entirely on the preferences of the expectant parents.

What do you do at a baby shower?

A baby shower lasts an average of 2 to 3 hours and usually includes a mix of the following activities:

Food and drinks - From light snacks to an extensive lunch or high tea
Games - Popular options include:
Guess the baby food
Baby bingo
Decorate diaper
Guess the waist size
Unwrapping Gifts - A Traditional Highlight of Any Baby Shower
Giving Advice - Guests share wisdom and tips for the expectant parents

For a successful baby shower, the right decorations are essential to set the mood. Think of balloons, streamers, tablecloths and themed decorations that match the baby's gender (if known) or a neutral theme.

Is a baby shower always a surprise?

No, a baby shower doesn’t necessarily have to be a surprise. Although surprise baby showers do happen, it’s often more practical to coordinate the date with the expectant mother. That way, you can be sure that she:

Available on the chosen date
Feels good enough to attend
Be able to mentally prepare for a social event

The details of the baby shower, such as decorations, games, and guests, can still remain a surprise.

What do you bring to a baby shower?

As a guest, you traditionally bring a gift for the baby or the expectant parent(s). Popular gift options include:

Practical items such as diapers, rompers or care products
Clothing in different sizes (not only newborn)
Books for the nursery
Toys or stuffed animals
Gift cards for baby items
Freezer Meals for After Birth

A personal card of congratulations is always appreciated. If you can't be there, it's thoughtful to send a gift anyway.

How much money do you give for a baby shower gift?

There is no set amount that you "should" spend on a baby shower gift. It depends on your relationship with the expectant parent(s), your own budget, and local customs. As a guideline:

Colleagues or acquaintances: €15-30
Friends: €30-50
Immediate family: €50-100+

Remember that a thoughtful, personal gift is often more appreciated than an expensive but impersonal gift. You can also collaborate with other guests to give a larger gift.

Alternatives to a traditional baby shower

Not everyone feels comfortable with a traditional baby shower. Luckily, there are alternatives:

Baby Shower After Birth - Some parents prefer to have a party after the baby arrives
Blessing way - A more spiritual gathering focused on emotionally supporting the mother
Diaper party - An informal gathering where guests bring diapers as gifts
Virtual Baby Shower - Perfect for friends and family who live far away
Book Baby Shower - Where guests bring a favorite children's book instead of traditional gifts

Tips for organizing an intimate baby shower

For a small-scale, personal baby shower:

Limit the guest list to the people most important to the expectant parent(s)
Choose a comfortable, homely location
Plan meaningful activities instead of standard games
Create a warm atmosphere with subtle decorations
Provide personal attention to each guest

What does the Bible say about baby showers?

For those wondering if baby showers fit into a religious context, the Bible does not specifically mention baby showers, as this is a modern concept. However, the Bible does contain many stories about celebrating births and blessing children. Many religious families incorporate prayers or blessings into their baby shower.

Conclusion: your perfect baby shower

A baby shower is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the arrival of a new life. Whether you choose a traditional celebration, a modern one or something in between, the most important thing is that it meets the wishes of the expectant parent(s).

With the right planning, fun activities and festive decorations, you can create an unforgettable experience for everyone. Remember, it is ultimately about celebrating new life and supporting the expectant parents during this special time.

Have fun organizing your baby shower!