Baby showers are a big deal for expecting parents. According to a recent survey by Aptaclub, a whopping 64% of soon-to-be parents are thrown a baby shower.
Moreover, 72% of folks even have more than one baby shower to include all their friends and family. But how can you make your baby shower stand out and be the talk of the town? We've got you covered with six easy-to-follow tips!
Tips to Host a Memorable Backyard Baby Shower
Setting the Stage for Your Shower
Planning a baby shower is like preparing for a grand performance. Just like a play needs careful staging, a baby shower requires meticulous planning and preparation. It's all about creating a memorable event celebrating the mom-to-be (or parent-to-be) and the little one on the way.
And when it comes to hosting a baby shower, timing is everything. You might wonder when the best time to throw a baby shower is. Well, the good news is that you have some flexibility here. Baby showers can happen before or after the baby arrives.
Before Baby Arrives: If you're planning a pre-baby shower, aim to schedule it about one to two months before the baby's due date. This gives the parents-to-be ample time to organize the gifts they have received, assemble any items that come in multiple pieces (like a bassinet or swing), launder baby clothes, sanitize toys, and organize everything ready for the little one's arrival.
After Baby's Arrival: In some religious and cultural traditions, baby showers occur after birth. If that's the case, allowing the family enough time to settle in with their new addition, establish their daily routine, and assess their baby's needs is essential. This means you can plan the shower anywhere from one to eight weeks after the baby arrives.
Now that we know when to throw the shower let's talk through six key tips to create a baby shower that’ll leave everyone talking (in a good way)!
1. Location, location, location
Choosing the right location for your baby shower is key. It sets the mood, accommodates guests comfortably, and ensures easy access. If you have a specific theme in mind, look for a customizable venue.
With its rustic charm and scenic surroundings, Olde House is an ideal choice. Its versatility allows you to tailor the space to match your theme, whether you are planning an elegant afternoon tea or a vibrant brunch. With Olde House, you can create a memorable backyard baby shower in a 1920's era picturesque setting.
2. Crafting a unique theme
Selecting a theme that resonates with the mom-to-be's personality and preferences is essential to creating a memorable baby shower. A well-chosen theme adds a unique touch to the celebration. Consider these creative and trending ideas from What to Expect, including gender-neutral options:
Elephant-themed baby shower: Elegant and adorable, featuring cute elephant decor.
Balloon-themed baby shower: A whimsical and colorful theme with balloon decorations.
Paris-themed baby shower: Channel the romance of Paris with Eiffel Tower motifs and French-inspired treats.
3. The perfect baby shower menu
Crafting a delicious outdoor menu is a key ingredient for a successful backyard baby shower. Your menu should cater to diverse tastes and dietary restrictions, ensuring everyone enjoys the feast. Consider popular baby shower options like a delightful brunch or a charming afternoon tea.
To simplify the process, you can enlist the help of a professional caterer. It's crucial to be mindful of foods that are off-limits for expectant mothers. Food cards listing key ingredients can help guests make informed choices and ensure a safe and enjoyable dining experience.
Here are some ideas to help you get started:
Cheese tray
Olive and pickle tray
Swedish meatballs
Deviled eggs
Quiche bites
Or, check out. these gluten-free options we recommend for weddings, showers and parties!
4. Games and activities
Games and activities are the heart of any backyard baby shower, keeping guests entertained and engaged throughout the event. They help create joyful memories and foster a sense of togetherness. Here are some popular baby shower games and activities to consider:
Guess Who?: Test guests' knowledge of the mom-to-be and her journey.
Don't Say Baby: Guests will love the don’t say baby game. Challenge attendees to avoid using the word "baby," and steal their clothespin when they fail. Whoever has the most clothespins at the end, wins!
Don't Drop the (Egg) Baby: A hilarious game involving carrying an "egg baby" without dropping it.
Ice, Ice Baby!: Guests race to melt ice cubes with tiny plastic babies inside.
Hang the Diaper: A fun twist on the classic "Pin the Tail on the Donkey." To play hang the diaper, you only need a pack of disposable diapers, some
5. Thoughtful favors and keepsakes
Sending your baby shower guests home with a special token of appreciation is a lovely gesture. It's a way to thank you for sharing in this joyous occasion. Whether you're going for a DIY approach, adding a personalized touch, or keeping it budget-friendly, there are plenty of options.
Here are some baby shower favor ideas to consider:
Edible Delights: Treat your guests to something delicious. Cookies, cupcakes, popcorn, chocolates, or candy are all crowd-pleasers. Just be sure to consider any dietary restrictions to ensure everyone can enjoy the goodies.
DIY Delights: For a cost-effective and personal touch, consider DIY favors. Think about creating body scrubs, handmade soaps, bouquets of garden flowers, or mason jar candles.
Personalized Perks: Personalized favors can be a wonderful choice if you have a smaller guest list. However, keep in mind that costs can add up quickly with personalized options, so they're generally better suited for more intimate gatherings.
Self-Care Surprises: Self-care items are always appreciated. Consider items like scented candles, face masks, lip balms, or body butter. To cater to diverse preferences, include a mix of scents so guests can take home something they'll love.
6. Capture the moments
Preserving the memories of your backyard baby shower is as important as the event itself. Here's why documenting the day matters:
Selfies and Candid Shots: Did you know that about 93 million selfies are taken each and every day? It’s true! And a baby shower is the perfect occasion to take some extras! Encourage guests to take selfies with the guest of honor, creating fun and candid memories.
Professional Touch: For more upscale affairs, consider hiring a professional photographer to capture the day's moments. Alternatively, you can designate an amateur photographer looking to gain experience. Use apps like Thumbtack to find the perfect photography talent.
Olde House's Scenic Beauty: If you're hosting your baby shower at Olde House, take advantage of its picturesque surroundings as a stunning backdrop for photographs. The natural beauty of the venue can add an extra layer of charm to your event's visual memories.
Keep these tips in mind when hiring an event photographer to capture your special moments.
Takeaways to Create a Memorable Backyard Baby Shower
Hosting a memorable baby shower involves attention to detail, personalization, and careful planning. Remember these key takeaways from our six tips as you prepare for your celebration.
And, for a picturesque venue that can bring your dream baby shower to life, choose a serene setting with dedicated event offerings like the Olde House. Book Now
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