What exactly is a baby shower? And how do you throw a cosy baby shower in these days of social distancing? The baby shower originated in the US and is simply a surprise party thrown by the friends of the mum-to-be to shower her with gifts. Traditionally, the party was only for the mum-to-be, but today there are also baby showers to celebrate both parents before the baby arrives.
Here are some baby shower ideas for food, drinks and games that are always a hit – virtually or in a smaller group.
1. Choose a theme for your baby party
Even if you can’t meet IRL, it’s still a great idea to have a theme for a baby shower. It brings everyone together and makes planning easier. Just make sure you tell the guests about the theme well in advance, so they can plan their background or choose a special outfit for the day. Glitter and balloons never fail!
2. Find baby shower games that work both virtually and IRL
Even though the party will be virtual, there are some activities and games that are always a hit at a baby shower. For example, you can
– play Guess the Baby by guessing the baby’s date of birth, height, weight and gender (if not already known).
– write down a parenting tip (best or worst) and put the notes in a nice jar or box or hold it up on the screen (and save it in a file).
– play Guess the Person by asking all the guests to submit a childhood photo and then letting everyone guess who is who. A popular game that’s harder than you might think!
– play the Name Game by writing down as many names as you can that start with a specific letter. It’s the perfect list for the parents-to-be!
3. Think finger food and picnics
Finger food is always appreciated and easy to help prepare or order in. Quiches, salads and lighter vegetarian dishes are often a good option. Remember that the guest of honour is pregnant, so skip blue cheeses and other foods that should be avoided during pregnancy.
4. Offer non-alcoholic drinks
Again, it’s the mum-to-be (and dad) who’s in the spotlight. Serve non-alcoholic drinks in festive glasses or attractive bottles.
5. Focus on fancy cakes
What would a baby shower be without delicious cupcakes, cakes or macaroons? Stick to a colour theme or go all-in with every colour of the rainbow. Homemade or shop bought – the only thing that matters is that they look fantastic and taste yummy!
6. Make room for the gender-reveal cake
An activity that’s becoming increasingly popular at baby showers is to reveal the baby’s gender with a cake that the parents cut open. Pink filling means it will be a girl, and blue a boy. Revealing this exciting news works just as well on screen as it does at a picnic!
7. Last but not least, spend time on gifts
Beautifully wrapped presents are as important as the cakes at a baby shower. Give the expectant parents time to open the gifts that were sent in advance or brought to the small gathering.
Don’t know what to buy for a baby shower? Check out our great baby shower gift ideas for parents-to-be.