What Should a Baby Shower Include?

Planning a baby shower is an exciting time. It’s an opportunity to celebrate someone you love, and someone that you’re excited to meet! With so much going into a baby shower, it can be a little overwhelming knowing where to start. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.

We created this guide so nothing gets forgotten. It’s packed full of helpful pointers like how many activities should be held during a baby shower to the best gift ideas.

Are you ready to plan the best baby shower ever? Moonsift is ready to help.

How many activities does a baby shower include?

The number of activities or items on your baby shower schedule partly depends on the length of the event, and the number of guests. You want to provide your guests with enough planned activities to keep the shower lively, while still giving them an opportunity to chat and visit.

A well-rounded baby shower has a few games or activities, some light refreshments, and time for a gift opening. Remember, everyone wants to see those tiny onesies!

Games

Games get your guests involved in the festivities. Have them join in  with popular games like Baby Bingo, a diaper changing relay, or Guess the Baby Food. Keep games light and easy to participate in, and have a small prize at the end for the winner.

Refreshments

Baby shower refreshments are often simple but elegant. Think finger sandwiches, mini cupcakes, and custom punch. Don’t go too heavy on the food... unless the expecting mother requests it! Be mindful of any dietary restrictions or allergies when planning your menu, and if possible, offer gluten-free options.

Opening Presents

Allow time for a gift-opening. Create a space with a comfortable seat for the mother-to-be with lots of room around her for gifts. Designate someone to take note of who gave which gift. An easy way is to write the gift on the back of the card!

Baby shower to do list

Now it’s time for the details of the actual party!

Step 1: Start by choosing a date and location for the baby shower. Make sure that it is easily accessible, and can be used in any weather, depending on the time of year.

Step 2: Incorporate a theme, if the parents-to-be would like one. Otherwise, create an environment that matches her style, and buy decorations that bring that vision to life.

Step 3: Ask the parents-to-be to create a baby registry. This will help give guests ideas on what to gift and also avoid getting duplicates of certain items.

Step 4: Create a guest list and send out invitations. Make sure to add an RSVP section so you can keep track of the number of guests attending. This will help you plan for things like the amount of food you need.

Step 5: Create a detailed menu to make sure you have everything you need day-of. Walk through the menu in your mind, and make note of all ingredients and how long it will take to prepare each dish. Alternatively, see if having the event catered makes sense for your needs.

Step 6: Prepare your games and activities. What unusual items will you need? Are they easily purchased, or do you need to plan ahead?

Step 7: Set aside a designated space for gift opening. Make sure Mom has a comfy chair or couch to sit on, and that there is ample space for the presents and for people to see what’s being opened.

Baby shower registry on Moonsift

Creating a baby shower registry on Moonsift is easy. You can add any item from any store in the world to your registry.

A baby shower registry on Moonsift makes it easy for your shower guests to discover exactly what you’re looking for for your little one. Say goodbye to duplicates or random purchases. Moonsift keeps all of your items in one place, broken down by category, so your friends and family can purchase exactly what you need from stores you trust.

The best part? It’s totally free to use, and you can add items from gifts worldwide. Use it on your desktop or iOS, through the Google Chrome extension, or download the Moonsift app for your iPhone.

Learn more about creating a free online baby registry.

Best present examples for baby showers

With so many choices for a new mom, it can be a bit daunting to add the right items to your baby shower registry.

Some items that are always a win:

Baby clothes and blankets: Keep baby cozy with blankets in varying weights for different temperatures. With access to baby clothes worldwide, your little one will be stylish from the start.

Nursing and feeding supplies: A breast pump, nursing bra, storage bags, bottles and more will all make your breastfeeding journey easier.

Baby gear: Add your well-researched stroller and car seat to the list. Both are must-haves for new moms to safely get around.

Books and toys for the baby: Look for sturdy board books with classic stories and durable

Diapers and wipes: Add diapers in a variety of sizes, so you’re stocked when your baby grows into the next size up overnight!

There are lot more examples in our article about what to put on a baby registry. Or check out real examples of common baby registry items below:

Baby registry 2023 - U.S. examples

Baby registry 2023 ideas - UK examples

A baby shower is a time of celebration of a mother-to-be or recent mother, and someone new who is so very special. Create an event that brings everyone together, without added stress, by following the above guide. You’re sure to create a memorable day filled with love and fun while celebrating those most dear.