How to plan a baby shower

Planning for the arrival of a baby can be one of the most exciting times we’ll experience in life. Whether you’re a parent-to-be or planning for an expectant friend, it’s fair to say that baby showers are fraught with expectations. Of course, you want to make the day special for the expectant mother and her new bundle of joy. But you also want to make sure that everyone else has a good time too.

Knowing where to start can be tricky. But life is always better with a plan and we’ve got it down to a fine science.

Read on for our step by step guide on how to plan a baby shower.

When to start planning a baby shower?

First things first, it’s good to know when to start planning a baby shower. Tradition says baby showers should be held in the third trimester, between 28 and 32 weeks of pregnancy. This period is a sweet spot for many expectant parents – not too close to the due date that they’re feeling rundown but early enough for them to enjoy the celebrations comfortably.

Though, it’s totally up to the expectant parents when they want to celebrate the newest addition to their family. Ideally, the host should have at least a month’s notice to get everything organised.

How to plan a baby shower step by step

Every pregnancy deserves a celebration! Here’s everything you need to know about planning a baby shower.

Set a date and time

Planning an event can be tricky. Not only do you have to balance the guest’s and honouree’s schedules, but you also have the narrow window of pregnancy to contend with.

A weekend date is a time-honoured choice for many hosts, as most people are usually free. But of course, it’s not always possible to get everyone together on a Saturday or Sunday. In such cases, a weekday might just cut it. You’ll need to make sure you notify guests well beforehand so they can plan ahead. Similarly, it’s sensible to check the calendar for any holidays or events that might conflict with your desired date.

Hot tip: think about the kinds of activities you would like to host at the event. This will make it easier to choose a time to hold your event.

Say, for example, you want to host a picnic, midday will likely be the perfect time to start the festivities.

Create a guest list

Before you decide on a location or even plan the menu, it’s important to create a guest list and get a (rough) headcount before you send out invitations. After all, your guest list will ultimately influence the size of your venue.

Remember, there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to invites. You can send out invitations in the post or even an e-invite. Whatever you decide, make it special and don’t forget to include all the essential details.

Aside from the date and time, it’s wise to also include information about the gift registry (if the parents-to-be have one). You may even want to ask guests to let you know about any special dietary needs.

Pick a location and venue

This next step may seem obvious, but it’s one of the most crucial parts of planning a baby shower. We’re talking about the venue, of course!

We know that the ever-growing wealth of locations available can be overwhelming. But what matters most is that the venue truly captures the mum-to-be’s personality and that this is reflected in both the style and ambience of the shower. That way, you can’t go wrong!

If you’re hoping to create an intimate party, the expectant mother’s home is often a good choice. Plus, this is quite a convenient option for the guest of honour. Having said that, booking a beautiful venue for your celebrations can really add the wow factor and give the day an all the more special feel, allowing you and your guests to relax and be waited on.

With this in mind, consider hosting the baby shower at a venue like Colwick Hall. We’ll do all the hard work for you and help you welcome your new arrival in style. Head here to learn more about the services we offer for baby showers.

Select a theme

When planning a baby shower, you also need to nail down some of the smaller details. Chief among these will be the theme and decor. Sure, you can always choose not to have a theme. But a theme can really help you throw a magical baby shower that the honouree and their loved ones will look back on with fond memories.

If you’re going with a theme that may reveal the sex of the baby, it’s best to speak to the expectant parents first. After all, they may not be ready to reveal what they’re having just yet.

Similarly, it’s important to not get too ahead of yourself and order any perishable decorations too early. It’s usually worth getting decorations like flowers the day before.

Plan out the day

You want to make sure the party runs smoothly. With that in mind, it’s worth planning a timeline for the day.

For example, you may decide to kick off the festivities with a few games and then have the gift opening after the food has been served, followed by dessert, of course.

Another top tip for hosts: if you decide to host games, consider having prizes for winners. This is a surefire way to get everyone in the party spirit.

Why you should choose Colwick Hall?

We hope you find these tips on how to plan a baby shower useful. Whilst you’re in the process of planning, why not take a look at our baby shower menu.

Colwick Hall is one of Nottingham’s leading venues for baby showers and gender reveals. We work closely with expectant parents and their loved ones to celebrate the good news and joy of a new baby coming into the world.

Get in touch with us today to see how we can make your baby shower extra special.