Perfect Timing: When to Host a Baby Shower

Hosting during this period gives the parents-to-be plenty of time to organize gifts, set up the nursery, and send heartfelt thank-you notes before the little one makes their grand entrance. This period of the pregnancy journey offers the perfect balance — morning sickness is typically a distant memory, but the exhaustion and discomfort of the final weeks haven't yet set in.

When you're ready to set the date, remember to send out invitations about four weeks before the big day. This gives your guests ample time to RSVP, check registry items, and find the perfect gift to welcome the newest family member. If you're struggling with what to say, check out our guide to perfect wording for your invitations to strike just the right tone.

For weekend celebrations (the most popular choice!), consider a mid-morning brunch or afternoon tea—these times allow for a relaxed atmosphere where the guest of honor can truly enjoy every moment without feeling overtired.

First-time parents often enjoy grand baby showers that pull out all the stops. These celebrations mark a big life change and give loved ones a chance to help set up the new nursery with all the essentials. From strollers to swaddles, these parents are starting from scratch!

While it was once less common to throw showers for subsequent children, many families now choose to honor each pregnancy with its own special celebration. After all, every baby deserves their moment in the spotlight!

For closely spaced siblings, a sweet "sprinkle" can be the perfect way to welcome the new addition. These more intimate gatherings focus on essentials like diapers and a few special items without overwhelming parents with duplicate gifts.

If there's a significant age gap between children (say, 5 years or more), a traditional celebration might be in order. Those baby clothes and gear might be long gone or outdated.

Every family's journey is unique, and that includes how they time their celebrations:

• First baby: As we’ve already explained, the classic window of 24-32 weeks typically works perfectly for a first baby.
• Second or third baby: Consider coordinating around older siblings' schedules. This might mean timing the shower around nap schedules, soccer games, and more — so be sure to consult with the guests of honor to figure out both a day and a time that will work for all members of the family. Some families even choose to have the older siblings help "host" by greeting guests or helping unwrap gifts—making them feel special during this transition.
• Twins or multiples: Some parents prefer earlier showers (around 24 weeks) in case of early delivery. With multiples, the third trimester can bring more physical challenges, so celebrating while mom is feeling her best becomes even more important. Consider splitting gifts between essentials and a meal train for after the babies arrive, when support will be most appreciated.

No matter what type of shower you’re planning, it is always important to chat with the parents-to-be about their ideal timing. They might surprise you with a creative idea, like a post-birth "sip and see" gathering or a virtual celebration for distant relatives.

Remember, the goal is to create a joyful experience that feels just right for the expecting parents, whether it's baby number one or a growing brood!

Baby showers have adapted beautifully to the digital age! Virtual and hybrid events have become popular mainstays, allowing far-flung loved ones to join in the festivities no matter where they live. Many expecting parents now opt for a mix of in-person and online guests, creating an inclusive celebration that bridges distances.

To make these digital gatherings special:

• Ship identical party favors or treat boxes to virtual guests in advance.
• Use interactive platforms that allow for games and conversation.
• Consider a dedicated "tech helper" to manage the online experience.
• Create coordinated activities like simultaneous gift openings or recipe sharing.

Another trend gaining traction is the idea of multiple, smaller celebrations instead of one large event. This approach allows for more intimate gatherings with different groups of friends and family.

Consider hosting:

• A cozy brunch with close friends.
• A workplace mini-celebration during lunch.
• An evening dessert party with extended family.
• A couples gathering with fellow parents.

This format creates opportunities for meaningful connections and can be less overwhelming for the parents-to-be, who can enjoy quality time with each group.

Unique combinations are enhancing modern baby showers, breaking traditional molds in delightful ways:

• Gender Reveal Showers: Some couples choose to reveal their baby's gender as part of the shower festivities, adding an extra layer of excitement. Explore our creative gender reveal ideas for memorable ways to share this special moment.
• Sip and See: A gathering after the baby arrives, where guests can meet the little one while enjoying refreshments.
• Baby-Q: Backyard barbecues that welcome both men and women for a relaxed co-ed celebration.
• Book Shower: Focus on building the baby's library instead of traditional gifts.
• Blessing Way: A more spiritual celebration focusing on the mother's journey rather than material gifts.

When planning these creative events, think about ways to involve both in-person and virtual guests. For example, send matching party favors to online attendees or create a shared digital guest book for everyone to sign.

When you're planning a celebration for your expecting friends, it's worth asking if they have any cultural traditions they'd like to honor. By blending these customs with their personal preferences, you can create a truly special event that feels just right for the new parents-to-be.

Remember, there's no one-size-fits-all approach – the best celebrations are those that make the growing family feel loved and supported, no matter when they happen.

Start your planning journey by having a heart-to-heart with the parents-to-be about their wishes. This is the perfect time to:

• Discuss potential dates and timing preferences.
• Brainstorm theme ideas that reflect their personality.
• Set a preliminary budget.
• Begin researching venues that match their vision.
• Consider how your theme might connect to the baby's nursery design or parents' interests.

With the foundation in place, it's time to make some concrete decisions:

• Finalize and book your venue.
• Create your guest list with the parents' input.
• Select your theme and begin planning decorations.
• Create a theme board with color schemes, decorative elements, and inspiration photos.
• Consider hiring a photographer if you want professional memories.
• Start looking at invitation designs that complement your theme.

The excitement builds as you begin sharing the celebration details:

• Order and send out invitations.
• Start planning the menu and contacting caterers if needed.
• Create a gift registry with the parents (if they haven't already).
• Begin purchasing decorations and party supplies.
• Plan shower games and activities.

Need inspiration? Browse our collection of fun games that everyone will enjoy to keep the celebration lively.

The shower is on the horizon! Now's the time to:

• Follow up with guests who haven't RSVP'd.
• Finalize food plans and place orders that align with your theme (themed cookies, cupcake toppers, etc.).
• Purchase prizes for games.
• Create a playlist that sets the perfect mood.
• Confirm details with any vendors or helpers.
• Order or create any last-minute themed elements (custom signage, photo props).

The countdown begins! This week, you'll:

• Pick up any ordered food items that can be stored.
• Assemble favor bags and decorations.
• Create a day-of timeline for setup and activities.
• Confirm attendance numbers with your venue and caterer.
• Prepare your camera for capturing special moments!

Almost there! Your preparation pays off as you:

• Set up decorations if your venue allows early access.
• Pick up the cake or any fresh food items.
• Prepare a space for gifts and cards.
• Pack an emergency kit with scissors, tape, extra pens, etc.
• Get a good night's sleep - tomorrow's the big day!

By staying organized and tackling tasks in advance, you'll create a seamless celebration where everyone—especially the guest ofhonor—can relax and enjoy this special milestone. For a step-by-step approach, our easy-to-follow baby shower planning checklist can help you stay organized from start to finish.

The ideal time for most baby showers falls between 28 and 32 weeks of pregnancy. This timing gives the expecting mother a visible bump to celebrate while still feeling comfortable enough to enjoy the festivities. It also provides ample time to organize gifts and prepare the nursery before the baby arrives.

While 5 months might seem early for some, there's no strict rule. If you're eager to celebrate, it's perfectly fine. Just consider that the mother's energy levels and comfort may vary at this stage.

Certainly! Many parents-to-be prefer third-trimester showers. This timing often aligns with nesting instincts and allows for a more prominent baby bump. Be mindful of the mother's comfort as the due date approaches.

Traditionally, showers happen before birth, but post-birth celebrations are gaining popularity. Some families choose both! Pre-birth showers help prepare for the baby's arrival, while post-birth gatherings let guests meet the new addition.

Send invitations 4-6 weeks before the event. This gives guests time to RSVP and plan accordingly.

Yes! While first babies often receive grand celebrations, honoring each new addition is becoming more common. For subsequent children, consider a smaller "sprinkle" or a themed party focusing on the specific needs of the new baby.

Absolutely. Some parents-to-be host separate celebrations with different groups, such as family and coworkers. This approach creates more intimate gatherings and accommodates various social circles.

For multiple births, consider hosting your shower around 26-28 weeks. This earlier timing accounts for potential early delivery and provides extra preparation time.

Virtual showers are increasingly popular and excellent for including long-distance loved ones. They're particularly useful when in-person gatherings are challenging.

Close friends, family members, or coworkers typically host baby showers. However, modern etiquette is flexible, and some parents-to-be choose to host their own celebrations. The priority is creating a joyful event that honors the expecting parents' journey.