The Ultimate Baby Shower Planning Guide: Tips, Games & Etiquette

Creating Unforgettable Baby Showers: A Thoughtful Host's Guide

There's something magical about gathering loved ones to celebrate an impending arrival. A well-planned baby shower does more than just stock the nursery—it creates cherished memories for the mom-to-be and marks this special transition in her life. Whether you're planning a surprise event or collaborating with the expectant mother, these insights will help you host a meaningful celebration.

Surprise or Not? The Great Shower Dilemma

Deciding whether to surprise the guest of honor requires careful consideration. A known shower allows the mom-to-be to provide input on her preferred guest list and theme, ensuring the event reflects her personality. She might also appreciate having time to prepare emotionally and physically for the spotlight.

On the other hand, a surprise shower can be incredibly touching, showing how much her community cares. If choosing this route, enlist close family members to discreetly ensure she's dressed appropriately and feeling well on the planned day. Avoid scheduling too close to her due date, as you certainly don't want to trigger early labor from excitement!

Crafting the Perfect Guest List

Navigating shower invitations requires diplomacy. Start by consulting the expectant mother (if it's not a surprise) or her immediate family about must-invite guests. Be particularly mindful about including:

Close family members from both sides, even if they live far away (they may appreciate being included regardless of attendance)

The mother's closest friends from different circles—work friends, childhood friends, and mom friends often form distinct groups that all matter

Consider hosting separate showers if family dynamics are complicated—perhaps an intimate family gathering and a friends-only event

Engaging Game Ideas That Delight Guests

The Belly Measurement Game

Have the guest of honor stand center stage while each participant estimates her belly size using toilet paper sheets or string. The closest guess wins, and the resulting photos often become treasured keepsakes that capture this fleeting moment in the pregnancy journey.

Nursery Rhyme Challenge

Test guests' knowledge of childhood classics with a nursery rhyme quiz. Include both well-known rhymes and obscure ones to level the playing field between seasoned parents and child-free friends. This game serves the dual purpose of entertainment and helping the mom-to-be refresh her bedtime story repertoire.

The "Baby" Word Game

Equip guests with decorative clothespins worn as necklaces or on clothing. Whenever someone says "baby," the first person to notice gets to claim a pin. This simple game keeps guests engaged throughout the event and often leads to lots of laughter as participants become increasingly alert.

Memory Test: Baby Item Edition

Create a display of 15-20 common baby items (pacifier, nasal aspirator, diaper cream) in a decorative basket. Give guests 30 seconds to study the collection before covering it. Participants then compete to list the most items correctly, with the winner receiving a practical prize like a coffee gift card—something they'll appreciate after those sleepless newborn nights.

Gourmet Baby Food Tasting

Remove labels from jars of various baby foods and number the bottoms. Provide tasting spoons and scorecards for guests to guess flavors. The unexpected combinations often lead to hilarious reactions, and the winner might receive a jar of "real" food as their prize.

Thoughtful Touches That Elevate the Event

Beyond games, consider incorporating these meaningful elements:

Create a wish tree where guests hang written advice or blessings for the new parents

Set up a onesie decorating station with fabric markers—these handmade gifts often become favorites

Include a photo timeline of the parents' relationship journey leading to this pregnancy milestone

Remember, the most successful showers balance thoughtful planning with flexibility. Keep the mom-to-be's comfort as the top priority, provide seating options for all guests (especially other pregnant attendees), and don't stress over perfection. The joy comes from the community gathering to celebrate new life, not from flawless execution.