What is a baby shower and how do you plan one?

Welcoming a new baby is one of life’s most exciting milestones, and a baby shower is the perfect way to celebrate the parents-to-be before the little one arrives. 

If you’re planning a baby shower for a friend, family member, or loved one, this guide explains everything you need to know. Learn what a baby shower is, what typically happens during the celebration, and a few simple baby shower ideas to help you create a memorable event.

What is a baby shower?

Baby shower meaning: A baby shower celebrates expectant parents and the upcoming arrival of their baby (or babies if they’re expecting more than one!). 

Traditionally, the event involves family and friends gathering to give baby shower gifts (such as clothes, toys, and essentials) to help the parents prepare for the new arrival.

Here are some of the key elements of a baby shower:

• Games and activities. Guessing the baby’s birth date, baby trivia, or silly challenges.

• Food and treats. Cakes, snacks, and themed goodies to enjoy.

• Decorations. Balloons, banners, and cute baby-themed décor.

• Gift-giving. Guests bring essentials, clothes, or toys for the baby

  
  

A simple checklist to plan a baby shower

• Choose the right format. Pick a style that reflects the parents-to-be, such as a casual or formal event, a colour theme, or a décor style that matches their personality.

• Determine your budget. Consider how much you’re willing to spend to host the event. 

• Pick a baby shower venue. Host at home, in a garden, or at a private function room for comfort and privacy.

• Set a date and time. Consider the parents’ schedules (most baby showers take place in the third trimester). 

• Create a guest list. Include close friends, family, and anyone special to the parents.

• Send invitations. Invite all the people from the guest list, asking for an RSVP by a certain date. 

• Plan the food and drinks. Keep it simple or themed: finger foods, brunch items, or afternoon tea treats.

• Decorate thoughtfully. Use balloons, banners, and table décor to match your chosen theme (if you have one - otherwise, we suggest using soft pastels or neutral colours). 

• Organise games and activities. Include fun and interactive options that suit the group.

• Prepare for cards and gifts. Set up a gift table or post box and consider a keepsake for messages.

• Consider special touches. Give favours, personalised decorations, or a memory book for the parents-to-be.

• Keep it flexible. Adapt the schedule and activities to what the parents enjoy most.

3 simple baby shower ideas for a memorable celebration

Wondering how to plan a baby shower for a close friend or family member? Take a look at the baby shower ideas below for inspiration: 

1. Host an afternoon tea baby shower

Perfect for a daytime baby shower with family and friends who enjoy chatting over food in a relaxed, elegant setting.

An afternoon tea is a relaxed and elegant option for a baby shower. Serve finger sandwiches, cakes, and pastries alongside tea, coffee, or mocktails. 

Soft pastel decorations, floral table settings, and a beautiful cake stand help create a charming atmosphere that feels special without requiring too much baby shower planning. 

Side note: At Springbank Manor, we have an “Oh Baby Package” for baby shower afternoon tea events, which includes afternoon tea, pink or blue balloons/chair sashes, a welcome sign, room hire, and a baby shower post box for cards from guests. Get in touch or read our baby shower information to find out more. 

2. Plan a garden party baby shower

Ideal for a late spring or summer baby shower where guests can enjoy fresh air and outdoor games.

If the weather allows, a garden party is a lovely way to celebrate. Set up outdoor seating with blankets or picnic tables, add balloons or bunting for decoration, and serve light refreshments. 

3. Organise a brunch baby shower

Best for a small morning or early-afternoon gathering with close friends and family.

A brunch celebration is perfect for a relaxed morning or early afternoon gathering. Serve crowd-pleasers like pastries, fruit platters, pancakes, and coffee. Simple baby shower themes (such as “baby in bloom” with fresh flowers or a soft colour palette) can make the event feel thoughtful and coordinated.

Top tip: Hire a function room to host the brunch in a private space, allowing guests to enjoy the event in an intimate setting. 

Baby shower FAQs

When do you have a baby shower?

Most baby showers are held in the later stages of pregnancy, usually around 28–36 weeks, so the parents-to-be have time to get ready for the baby. The exact timing is flexible. Some like it earlier for a more relaxed vibe, while others wait until the final trimester.

Who usually organises a baby shower?

Traditionally, a close friend or family member hosts the shower, rather than the expectant parent themselves. That said, anyone close to the parents-to-be can organise it. There are no hard-and-fast rules!

What happens at a baby shower? 

Here’s a top-level breakdown of what happens at a baby shower:

• Guests arrive and mingle. Friends and family gather, chat, and get settled.

• Baby shower games begin. Everyone gets involved in fun challenges. 

• Gifts are presented. Guests give presents for the baby while the parents-to-be open them. 

• Food and treats are served. Sweet and savoury snacks, cake, and themed goodies keep energy high.

• Photo opportunities and keepsakes. Guests take pictures and may leave messages or advice for the parents in a memory book. 

• Wrapping up and farewells. The party ends with thank-yous, small favours, and excited anticipation for the baby’s arrival.

  
  

Host your upcoming baby shower at Springbank Manor

If you’re looking for the perfect baby shower venue, Springbank Manor offers a beautiful indoor and outdoor setting for hosting an unforgettable event. 

Contact us today to find out more about how our team can help you create a memorable event with delicious food and thoughtful details.