How to Plan the Best Baby Shower
A Calm, Thoughtful Guide to Celebrating New Life in Style
Baby showers aren’t just about cute cupcakes and pastel balloons — they’re about celebrating the beautiful transition into parenthood, wrapping the parent-to-be in love, and gathering with intention.
At Neutral Nest, we believe in creating moments that are gentle, personal, and meaningful — whether you're planning a quiet afternoon tea or a more elaborate gathering. Here’s how to host a baby shower that feels effortless, elegant, and truly special.
1. Start with the Parent, Not the Pinterest Board
Every shower should reflect the person (or people) being celebrated. Ask:
Do they prefer something big or intimate?
Are they comfortable being the centre of attention?
Would they like traditional games, or something more relaxed?
Would they prefer a blessingway-style gathering with mindfulness and meaning?
Let their personality guide every decision — from the guest list to the menu.
2. Choose a Calm, Comfortable Setting
You don’t need to book a fancy venue. The best baby showers are often held in spaces where guests feel relaxed — like a sunlit living room, garden, or a cosy local café with private space.
Neutral Nest-style suggestions:
A garden picnic with soft blankets and low tables
A brunch at home with grazing boards and herbal tea
A minimalist tea party with natural linen and fresh flowers
A soft, boho setup with dried florals, pampas, and soft lighting
3. Keep the Theme Simple and Thoughtful
You don’t need a loud theme — just a feeling. Choose a neutral colour palette and let texture, light, and nature do the work.
Gentle theme ideas:
“Little One on the Way” — simple, elegant and timeless
“Botanical Baby” — greenery, herbs, soft whites
“New Moon, New Life” — ideal for a more spiritual vibe
“Tiny Things” — miniature food, tiny clothesline décor, soft minimalism
4. Curate Activities, Not Obligations
Games are optional — connection is not.
Instead of loud games, try:
A letter-writing station: guests write messages for baby to open on future birthdays
Bead-threading for a keepsake “mama bracelet”
A “wishes for baby” card table
Polaroid photo corner with a memory book
DIY floral crowns or dried flower posies
The best showers feel like a soft gathering of hearts — not a performance.
5. Serve Nourishing, Fuss-Free Food
Keep food light, beautiful, and easy to graze. Focus on colours, freshness, and dietary inclusivity.
Ideas we love:
Seasonal fruit platters
Mini pastries or finger sandwiches
Grazing boards with plant-based options
Herbal iced teas, mocktails, or fruit-infused water
A “build your own” parfait or smoothie bowl bar
Food should feel like part of the experience — not a stressor.
6. Gifts With Intention
Whether you’re creating a registry or not, let guests know that thoughtful, practical gifts are always appreciated. (And if you're the host, steer guests toward options the parent actually wants.)
We recommend:
Nappy caddy organisers (a parent’s secret weapon!)
Soft muslin blankets — perfect for swaddling, nursing, and snuggles
Baby bath brushes, natural skincare, or handmade keepsakes
A curated Neutral Nest gift set with calming essentials for baby and parent
Bonus tip: Have a guest discreetly write down who gave each gift to make thank-you notes easier later.
7. Make Space for Emotion
A baby shower isn’t just a party — it’s a rite of passage. It can be emotional, sacred, and deeply bonding. Make space for that.
You might invite guests to:
Share one sentence of parenting wisdom
Offer a word or intention for the baby or parent-to-be
Light a candle or take a quiet breath together before the celebration begins
Small rituals can make the day feel rooted and real.
Final Thoughts
The best baby showers aren’t about extravagance — they’re about presence. A warm space. A loving group. A moment of pause before everything changes.
At Neutral Nest, we believe in helping you honour these transitions with softness and soul — through gifts, gatherings, and gestures that truly matter.
You don’t need a huge budget or professional planner. You just need heart, intention, and a few good people around the table.