How to Plan the Perfect Baby Shower (Free Printable Checklist & Planner!)
Planning a baby shower can feel overwhelming, but with the right timeline and checklist, it’s a breeze! Whether you’re hosting for a friend or planning your own, this guide breaks everything down step by step. Plus, grab your FREE Baby Shower Checklist & Planner to stay on track and make the celebration stress-free!
There are affiliate links in this post – please read my full disclosure policy. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Planning a baby shower sounds like fun—until you realize just how many details there are to figure out. What theme should you choose? When do you send invitations? How much food is enough (because let’s be honest, no one wants a room full of hangry guests)?
Take a deep breath because I’ve got you covered. Whether you’re hosting for a friend, a family member, or even yourself, this guide will walk you through every step of planning a beautiful, stress-free baby shower. And the best part? I’m giving you a free printable baby shower checklist and planner to make sure you don’t forget a thing.
If you need a fun game idea, see the Hilarious Bottle Chugging Baby Shower Game (Free Printables)! You may also like 43+ Stunning Baby in Bloom Shower Ideas You Will Love!, 41+ Amazing Here Comes The Son Baby Shower Ideas, and these 17+ Free Printable Here Comes the Son Baby Shower Games!
🌟Don’t Leave Before You Check Out These Fun Ideas!🌟
This digital file is an instant download that you will receive via download link after subscribing. Our printables are for personal use only. No physical product will be shipped. The free printables can be found at the bottom of this post.
Baby Shower Planning Timeline: When to Start & What to Do
The best time to host a baby shower is usually in the third trimester (around 28-36 weeks). This allows the parents to enjoy the celebration while still having time to prepare before the baby arrives.
6-8 Weeks Before the Shower: Set the Foundation
- Choose a date and time
- Pick a theme or color scheme
- Book a venue or decide on a home-based celebration
- Create the guest list
- Order invitations (printed or digital)
4-6 Weeks Before: Details, Details!
- Send out invitations
- Plan the menu (catered, homemade, or potluck-style)
- Organize games and activities
- Order or make decorations
- Purchase or DIY party favors
2-3 Weeks Before: Time for the Fun Stuff
- Confirm the RSVP list
- Buy or make centerpieces and decor
- Finalize the shower timeline (when to eat, play games, open gifts, etc.)
- Order or bake the cake or desserts
1 Week Before: Get Everything Ready
- Set up a gift table and seating arrangement plan
- Wrap up last-minute decor touches
- Confirm with vendors (caterers, bakers, or entertainers)
- Prepare a playlist or background music
The Day Before: Final Touches
- Decorate the venue or party space
- Set up food stations or catering area
- Charge your camera or phone for photos
- Pack a small emergency kit with scissors, tape, extra utensils, and napkins
Day of the Shower: Celebrate!
- Pick up fresh food, drinks, and ice
- Set out gifts, decor, and party favors
- Greet guests and enjoy the celebration
Choosing the Perfect Theme
The baby shower theme sets the tone for the entire event. Whether you want something elegant or playful, here are a few ideas:
- Spring Baby Shower Themes – “Some Bunny Special,” “Little Sprout, Big Love,” “A Berry Sweet Baby”
- Adventure-Themed – “Oh, The Places You’ll Go,” “Little Explorer,” “Twinkle Twinkle, Little Star”
- Whimsical & Fun – “Boho Baby,” “Woodland Creatures,” “Little Cutie (Clementine Theme)”
For a cohesive look, match the invitations, decor, and cake to your chosen theme.
Fun Baby Shower Games & Activities
Games help keep guests entertained and engaged. Some popular options include:
- Baby Bingo – Guests mark off baby items as gifts are opened
- The Price is Right – Guests guess the price of baby-related items
- Guess the Baby Food – A blind taste test challenge
- Advice for Mom – Guests write messages for the mom-to-be
Decorations & Party Setup
The right decorations can transform any space into a festive and fun environment. Consider incorporating:
- Balloon Garlands – Adds color and fun to the party space
- Gift Table & Backdrop – A designated area for presents and photo opportunities
- Themed Tableware & Signs – Ties everything together for a polished look.
Baby Shower Menu Ideas
Food choices can be as simple or elaborate as you prefer. A few ideas include:
- Brunch Shower – Mini quiches, fruit platters, pastries, and mocktails
- Sweet Treats – Cupcakes, cake pops, and sugar cookies shaped like baby items
- Drink Station – Lemonade, flavored water, mimosa bar, and coffee or tea options
Providing at least one vegetarian and one gluten-free option ensures all guests have something to enjoy.
The Gift Table & Thank You Notes
A few tips for organizing gifts and thank-you notes:
- Designate a gift table so guests know where to place presents
- Use the gift log (included in your planner) to track who gave what
- Have thank-you cards ready so they can be written and sent promptly
Final Baby Shower Tips for a Stress-Free Event
- Delegate tasks – Ask a friend or co-host to help with setup and coordination
- Keep it simple – Guests are there to celebrate, not critique the decorations
- Plan for comfort – Ensure enough seating, provide shade if outdoors, and offer plenty of refreshments
Planning a baby shower should be enjoyable, not overwhelming. With this step-by-step guide and free printable planner, you can stay on track and create a wonderful celebration for the mom-to-be. Download the planner, follow the timeline, and enjoy the special day.
Grab Your Free Printable Baby Shower Planner
Stay organized and stress-free with the free Baby Shower Checklist & Planner. This printable includes everything needed to plan a memorable and smooth event.
