Introduction
The baby shower is a joyous and moving celebration marking the imminent arrival of a baby. A tradition that originated in the United States, it has quickly conquered many countries, including France. The purpose of the shower? To bring mums-to-be together with friends and family to share a convivial moment about pregnancy. Whether you're the organiser or a guest looking for a memorable party, this guide will take you through each stage of preparation.
Step 1 : Essential preparations
Defining the concept of the Baby Shower
Before embarking on the preparations, it's essential to choose a suitable theme. This will give visual coherence and a specific atmosphere to the event.
The most popular themes include :
- Pastels : Pink, blue, yellow or green for a soft, elegant look.
- Mixed : Perfect if the baby's sex is not yet known, or for a unisex feel.
- Princess or little prince : With crowns, sequins and royal elements.
- Jungle or animals : Ideal for a fun and colourful decoration.
Setting a date and venue
Choosing the date and venue for the baby shower is a crucial step. In general, this party is organised between the 7ᵉ and 8ᵉ month of pregnancy, when the mother-to-be is still in shape to fully enjoy the event. It can take place at home, for a more intimate, warm and economical setting, or in a reserved room to accommodate a larger number of guests or if more elaborate decoration is desired. When making these choices, it's important to take into account the availability of guests as well as the timing of the event: during the day or in the evening, depending on the mother-to-be's preferences.
Invitations and guest list
Sending out invitations is a key stage in ensuring that everyone close to you is present. Invitations should be personalised and include clear information about the date, time, venue and theme chosen. They can be sent in physical or digital form, depending on the organiser's preferences and budget. To allow guests to get organised, it is advisable to send invitations at least one month in advance.
Step 2 : Decoration and atmosphere
Decoration is one of the most important aspects of a baby shower. It allows you to immerse your guests in the world you want them to be in.
Popular themes :
- Soft pastels (pink, blue, yellow) for a soothing atmosphere.
- Princess or prince : Crowns, sequins and gilding
- Jungle or animals : Colourful decoration with leaves, cuddly toys and animals
- Mixed sex : If the baby's sex is unknown or simply a preference.
Decorative elements should be carefully selected to harmonise the whole. The use of balloons, garlands, streamers and feathers helps to reinforce the festive atmosphere. A table decorated with a matching tablecloth, elegant crockery and a centrepiece in keeping with the chosen theme is an undeniable visual asset. You can also include a photo area with a personalised background to immortalise the day.
Step 3 : Buffet and cakes
Preparing an appetising and varied buffet will satisfy all tastes and create a convivial atmosphere around the table. Buffets can include savoury dishes such as mini-sandwiches, quiches and puff pastries, as well as sweet treats such as cupcakes, sweets, macaroons and candies. The drinks should also be designed to appeal to everyone, with non-alcoholic cocktails, fruit juices or homemade lemonade. The cake, often personalised in line with the chosen theme, is a real highlight of the party.
Tip : Offer a self-service buffet for more conviviality.
Step 4 : Games and activities
Games are essential to liven up the baby shower and create a friendly, fun atmosphere. One of the classics is a pregnancy quiz to test your guests' knowledge of babies, maternity and tastes. The guessing contest is also very popular, whether it's guessing the baby's sex, weight or date of birth. Creative workshops add a personalised touch to the party. Guests can have fun decorating bodysuits for the baby-to-be, writing congratulatory messages on cards or taking part in a photobooth with fun props. The most important thing is to offer activities that encourage sharing and conviviality.
Step 5 : Gifts and birth lists
Gifts are an essential part of the baby shower, allowing guests to show their affection and support for the parents-to-be. They can be for the baby, the mum-to-be or even the dad-to-be. For mum, wellbeing boxes, massage sessions or personalised photo albums are particularly popular gifts. Dad-to-be can also receive gifts such as books on fatherhood or humorous accessories. To simplify the choices of guests, it is advisable to propose a birth list, either on paper or via online platforms such as Poomlist.
Conclusion
Organising a baby shower requires a great deal of preparation if the party is to be a success. From defining the theme to preparing the buffet, not forgetting the decorations and games, every detail counts to ensure a memorable moment for the mother-to-be and her loved ones. The important thing is to create a warm, friendly and happy atmosphere that will be remembered for a long time.
Q&A
When to organise a baby shower ?
Ideally between the 7ᵉ and 8ᵉ month of pregnancy.
How do you choose a theme for a baby shower ?
Depending on the tastes of the mum-to-be: pastels, animals, princesses, etc.
What activities should be offered at a baby shower ?
Quizzes, photobooths, creative workshops, fun competitions.
What gifts should I give at a baby shower ?
