Baby Shower FAQs
What is a baby shower?
A baby shower is a celebration honoring expectant parents and their upcoming baby. It’s a time for friends and family to gather, offer support, and help the parents prepare through gifts, advice, and shared celebration. Baby showers typically include food, decorations, gifts, and optional games, but the format can be as simple or as styled as you’d like.
When should you have a baby shower?
Most baby showers are held during the late second or early third trimester, usually between 28 and 34 weeks of pregnancy. This timing allows parents to feel comfortable, ensures the pregnancy is well established, and still leaves time to organize gifts and prepare before the baby arrives.
Who usually hosts a baby shower?
Traditionally, a close friend or family member hosts the baby shower rather than the parents themselves. Today, it’s very common for multiple people to co-host, such as siblings, grandparents, or friends, and share responsibilities like planning, decorating, and food.
Who pays for a baby shower?
The host or hosts typically pay for the baby shower. In modern planning, costs are often split between co-hosts, especially for larger events. In some cases, family members may contribute specific items like food or decorations to help manage costs.
How much should you budget for a baby shower?
Most baby showers cost between $150 and $600, depending on guest count, food choices, and décor style. Smaller gatherings hosted at home with light food tend to cost less, while larger or more styled events naturally increase the budget.
What is a reasonable baby shower budget per person?
A reasonable baby shower budget is $10–$25 per guest. This typically covers food, drinks, disposable tableware, and simple decorations while still creating a thoughtful and polished celebration.
Is it okay to have a low-budget baby shower?
Yes. A low-budget baby shower can be just as meaningful as a larger event. Thoughtful planning, a cohesive theme, and intentional details often matter far more than total spend. Many beautiful baby showers are simple, intimate, and budget-friendly.
How much does an over-the-top baby shower cost?
Over-the-top baby showers typically range from $1,000 to $3,000+. These events may include rented venues, catering, balloon installations, custom signage, party favors, and professional photography, creating a more formal or styled experience.
How many guests should you invite to a baby shower?
Baby showers commonly include 15–30 guests, but there’s no required number. The right guest list depends on your budget, available space, and how intimate or social you want the event to feel.
What are common baby shower activities?
Popular baby shower activities include light games, advice or prediction cards, gift opening, and casual mingling. Games are optional and should match the tone of the event. Some hosts prefer a relaxed gathering with no structured activities at all.
Are baby shower favors required?
No. Baby shower favors are optional. Many hosts choose to skip favors and instead put that budget toward food, décor, or creating a better overall guest experience.
What should you serve at a baby shower?
Baby showers typically feature light food such as brunch items, desserts, finger foods, and non-alcoholic drinks. A full meal is not required, especially for shorter daytime events, though it may be appropriate for longer or more formal showers.
What should the mom-to-be bring to the baby shower?
The mom-to-be usually brings nothing other than herself. Hosts typically handle food, décor, and logistics. In some cases, the parents may bring a small thank-you gift or card for the host, but this is optional.
Should you open gifts at a baby shower?
Opening gifts is traditional but optional. Some parents enjoy opening gifts during the shower, while others prefer to open them privately or keep gift opening brief to focus on socializing.
What is a good hostess gift for a baby shower?
A thoughtful hostess gift might include a handwritten thank-you note, a candle, flowers, gourmet treats, or a small self-care item. The most important part is acknowledging the time and effort the host put into planning the celebration.
Final Thoughts
There’s no single “right way” to host a baby shower. From simple gatherings to elevated celebrations, the best baby shower is one that feels comfortable, thoughtful, and full of love.
