Baby Shower Checklist: Everything You Need to Plan

Choose a host

Traditionally a close friend or family member hosts, but the expectant parent can host their own — whatever works for your family.

Set the date

Most baby showers happen 4–6 weeks before the due date. Early enough to leave time for purchasing remaining registry items, late enough that the pregnancy is comfortably along.

Pick a venue

Common options include a home, a restaurant private room, a community center, or a backyard. Factor in space for activities, food, and gift opening.

Set a budget

Agree on a total budget early and split it clearly among co-hosts if applicable. Include food, decorations, invites, games, and favors.

Choose in-person, virtual, or hybrid

Virtual showers via Zoom or similar platforms work well for guests who live far away. A hybrid format lets remote guests join activities and gift opening live.

Create a guest list

Coordinate with the expectant parent on who to invite. Consider family, close friends, and coworkers. Typical showers range from 15–40 guests.

Send invitations 4–6 weeks in advance

This gives guests enough time to RSVP, shop, and arrange travel if needed.

Include registry information

Unlike wedding invitations, it's completely acceptable to include registry details on baby shower invitations. A link to the registry is most useful.

Specify dress code or theme

If you have a theme or color palette for photos, mention it so guests can dress accordingly.

Include RSVP deadline and contact

Ask for RSVPs 2 weeks before the shower so you can finalize headcount for food and seating.

Note parking and access details

Especially important for venues guests may be unfamiliar with.

Decide on gifts vs. experience-only shower

Some families prefer a diaper party or experience shower. Make the format clear in the invite if gifts are not expected.

Plan a menu

Classic options include sandwiches, salads, fruit, and finger foods. Brunch showers are popular — mimosas (with non-alcoholic options), quiche, and pastries work well.

Order or prep a cake

A decorated shower cake doubles as a centerpiece and dessert. Order 2–3 weeks in advance if going custom.

Provide non-alcoholic options

The guest of honor can't drink, and many guests may prefer non-alcoholic options. Sparkling water, lemonade, and mocktails are crowd-pleasers.

Check for dietary restrictions

Ask in the invitation or RSVP form about allergies and dietary needs. Label dishes at the event.

Plan for catering or DIY

Catered showers reduce day-of stress significantly. For home showers, prep as much as possible the day before.

Set up a self-serve drink station

A beverage station lets guests help themselves and reduces the need for constant refills.

Choose a theme or color palette

A simple color palette is easier than a strict theme and photographs well. Soft neutrals, pastels, or the nursery colors are popular choices.

Order or make a banner

A simple 'Baby Shower' or personalized name banner anchors the decoration space and makes photos easy.

Set up a gift table

Designate a clear area for gifts so they don't clutter the main space and are easy to photograph.

Create a photo backdrop

A simple balloon arch or floral backdrop gives guests and the guest of honor a great spot for photos.

Set up a memory or advice station

Cards where guests write advice for the parents, their birth story predictions, or well-wishes become a treasured keepsake.

Prepare seating for the guest of honor

A decorated chair or designated seat for the parent-to-be makes photo moments easier and signals where the center of the event is.

Plan 2–3 games

Baby shower games are optional but help guests who don't know each other mix and fill time between food and gifts. Don't plan more than 3 or the event feels crowded.

Baby bingo

Guests fill out bingo cards with registry items and mark them as gifts are opened. Easy, requires no prep knowledge from guests.

Price is right (baby edition)

Guests guess the price of common baby items. No supplies needed — just a list of items and their prices.

Prepare small prizes for game winners

Simple prizes like a candle, small plant, gift card, or sweet treat are appreciated without breaking the budget.

Set up a baby wish jar or advice box

Guests write parenting advice, sleep tips, or well-wishes. Simple and meaningful — no time pressure.

Onesie decorating station

Guests decorate plain onesies with fabric markers. The parent-to-be gets a unique collection of wearable keepsakes.

Share the registry link clearly

Include it on invitations and follow-up RSVPs. A BennyList registry lets guests shop from any store in one place.

Assign a gift recorder

Someone should note who gave what during opening so thank-you notes are accurate and complete.

Prepare thank-you cards

Have blank cards on hand to write after the shower. Many parents write them in the first week or two while memories are fresh.

Plan for gift transport

Large items like strollers or bouncers may not fit in the car. Coordinate pickup or have gifts shipped directly.

Include a group gift option

For big-ticket items, let guests contribute to a group purchase through the registry so everyone can participate at their comfort level.

Arrive early to set up

Plan for at least 90 minutes of setup time before guests arrive. Delegate specific tasks to co-hosts.

Have a run-of-show ready

A loose timeline — arrival, food, games, gifts, cake — keeps the event moving without feeling rushed.

Designate a photographer

Ask a guest to handle photos throughout the event so the hosts and guest of honor can be present.

Set out the guest book or advice cards

Place them near the entrance so guests can fill them out on arrival or while waiting.

Have backup supplies

Extra napkins, tape, scissors, trash bags, and a first aid kit cover most surprises.

Send guests home with favors

A small favor — a candle, a seed packet, a small sweet — is a thoughtful touch that guests appreciate.