Whether you are hosting a baby shower for a friend, family member, or even yourself, this guide covers everything from budgeting to games to help you create a memorable celebration.
Average Baby Shower Costs
$200-400
Budget-Friendly
At-home, DIY decor, 15-20 guests
$500-1,000
Mid-Range
Venue rental, catering, 25-35 guests
$1,500+
Upscale
Restaurant/event space, 40+ guests
Planning Timeline
8-12 Weeks Before
- • Set the date (aim for 4-6 weeks before due date)
- • Determine budget and who is contributing
- • Create guest list with mom-to-be
- • Choose theme or color scheme
- • Book venue if not hosting at home
6-8 Weeks Before
- • Send invitations (digital or paper)
- • Include registry information
- • Plan menu and order cake if needed
- • Start purchasing or making decorations
- • Plan games and activities
2-4 Weeks Before
- • Follow up on RSVPs
- • Finalize headcount for food
- • Confirm vendor bookings
- • Purchase game prizes
- • Prepare any DIY elements
1 Week Before
- • Final guest count to caterer
- • Confirm all helpers and assignments
- • Prepare favor bags if using
- • Create timeline for the day
- • Prep any make-ahead food
Budget Breakdown
Here is how to allocate your baby shower budget:
| Category | Budget % | $500 Shower | $1000 Shower |
|---|---|---|---|
| Food & Drinks | 35-40% | $175-200 | $350-400 |
| Venue (if applicable) | 20-25% | $100-125 | $200-250 |
| Decorations | 15-20% | $75-100 | $150-200 |
| Cake/Desserts | 10-15% | $50-75 | $100-150 |
| Games & Prizes | 5-10% | $25-50 | $50-100 |
| Invitations & Favors | 5% | $25 | $50 |
Popular Baby Shower Themes
Classic & Timeless
Teddy bears, rubber ducks, stars and moon, storybook, Noah's ark, garden party
Modern & Minimalist
Neutral tones, greenery, boho, rainbow, geometric patterns, watercolor
Fun & Playful
Safari/jungle, nautical, woodland creatures, circus, tropical, sports
Seasonal
Little pumpkin (fall), winter wonderland, spring flowers, summer BBQ
Baby Shower Games Everyone Will Enjoy
Baby Bingo
Guests fill in gifts they think mom will receive. Mark off as gifts are opened. First to get bingo wins!
Great for: Gift opening portionGuess the Baby Food
Remove labels from baby food jars. Guests taste and guess the flavor. Most correct guesses wins.
Great for: Laughs and interactionPrice is Right: Baby Edition
Show baby items, guests guess prices. Closest without going over wins each round.
Great for: Mixed-age groupsDiaper Messages
Guests write funny/encouraging messages on diapers for late-night changes. Not competitive but memorable!
Great for: Meaningful keepsakeDon't Say Baby
Give everyone a pin/clothespin. If caught saying "baby," lose your pin. Most pins at the end wins.
Great for: Background game throughoutFood Ideas by Budget
Budget ($100-200)
- • Potluck style
- • Finger sandwiches
- • Fruit and veggie trays
- • Homemade punch
- • DIY dessert bar
- • Costco/Sam's platters
Mid-Range ($200-400)
- • Catered appetizers
- • Charcuterie boards
- • Build-your-own stations
- • Custom cake
- • Signature mocktail
- • Afternoon tea service
Upscale ($400+)
- • Full catering service
- • Brunch or lunch menu
- • Custom dessert table
- • Professional bartender
- • Specialty dietary options
- • Late-night snacks
Money-Saving Tips
- Host at home - Venue costs are often the biggest expense
- Go digital - Free e-invites save on paper and postage
- DIY decorations - Pinterest has endless ideas for budget decor
- Shop Dollar Tree - Balloons, tableware, and decor for $1.25
- Potluck desserts - Ask guests to bring a treat to share
- Skip favors - Not necessary and often go unused
- Brunch timing - Morning showers are typically less expensive
- Co-host - Split costs with other friends or family
Modern Baby Shower Etiquette
Who Hosts?
Traditionally, a close friend or relative hosted (not the mother or her immediate family). Today, anyone can host - including the parents themselves. Co-hosting is also common to share costs and responsibilities.
Virtual Shower Options
For long-distance friends and family, consider a hybrid or fully virtual shower. Platforms like Zoom work well. Send small gift bags to virtual attendees in advance so everyone can participate in games together.
Registry Etiquette
Include registry information on the invitation or on a separate enclosure card. Having 1-2 registries at different price points helps guests find gifts in their budget. Online registries make it easy for everyone.