Planning a baby shower can feel like juggling diapers, cupcakes, and guest lists all at once—especially if it’s your first time. But don’t worry! Whether you’re the parent-to-be, a best friend, or an excited grandma, this practical, USA-friendly baby shower checklist will help you throw a beautiful celebration that’s organized, thoughtful, and full of love.
Let’s walk through everything you’ll need—from the early planning to the final thank-you notes.
6–8 Weeks Before the Shower: Early Planning
This is the foundation stage. Here’s where the groundwork happens:
Choose the Date and Time
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Most showers happen during the third trimester (around 28–36 weeks).
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Avoid major holidays or long weekends when guests might be away.
Decide Who’s Hosting
Traditionally, friends or family host the shower. But modern baby showers can be hosted by anyone close—even the parents themselves.
Set the Budget
Keep things realistic. A small backyard shower can be just as special as a fancy venue event.
Pick a Venue
Options include:
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Home or backyard
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Local park (great for spring/summer showers)
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Community center or clubhouse
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Restaurant or private dining space
Create the Guest List
Ask the parents-to-be who they want to invite. Consider:
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Friends
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Family (including extended)
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Co-workers (if it’s a work baby shower)
🔍 Example: For a spring baby in Austin, TX, a backyard garden baby shower in mid-April is popular. Add hanging fairy lights and lemonade for a fresh vibe.
4–6 Weeks Before: Invitations & Theme
Choose a Theme (Optional, but Fun!)
Themes add a creative touch. Popular USA themes include:
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“Twinkle Twinkle Little Star”
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Woodland Creatures
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Boho Baby
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Sports Team (great for baby boys)
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Storybook theme (like Winnie the Pooh or Peter Rabbit)
Design and Send Invitations
Options:
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Physical invitations (Minted, Shutterfly)
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Digital invites (Evite, Paperless Post)
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Facebook event (informal)
Make sure to include:
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Date and time
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Address
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RSVP details
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Registry link
3–4 Weeks Before: Food, Games & Decor
Plan the Menu
Keep it simple and snackable:
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Finger sandwiches, sliders, cupcakes, fruit trays
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Include vegetarian/gluten-free options
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A signature “mocktail” or lemonade bar
🍓 Example: For a July baby shower in Georgia, offer iced tea, watermelon slices, mini chicken and waffles, and strawberry cupcakes.
Order or Plan Decorations
Depending on your theme, think about:
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Balloons and banners
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A “Mom-osa” bar sign
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Centerpieces (flowers, onesies in jars)
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Welcome sign
Organize Games and Activities
Keep things light and interactive:
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Guess the Baby Food
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Diaper Raffle
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Baby Bingo
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“Advice for Mom” card station
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Onesie decorating table
1–2 Weeks Before: Confirm & Prep
Confirm Headcount
Follow up with anyone who hasn’t RSVP’d. Finalize food and seating.
Prepare Party Favors
A small thank-you gift goes a long way:
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Mini candles
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Hand lotion
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Seed packets (“Watch me grow!”)
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Personalized cookies
Set Up the Gift Table
Add a gift sign and a registry printout for those who might forget.
Assign a Photographer (or Friend with a Good Phone!)
Make sure someone’s capturing the moments—especially the gift opening and group photo.
Day of the Baby Shower: Let the Celebration Begin
Setup Early
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Arrange seating
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Decorate with care
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Check the bathroom and common areas for cleanliness
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Set up food and drinks 30–60 minutes before guests arrive
Designate a Helper
Have someone greet guests, guide gifts, and keep track of who brought what for thank-you notes.
Make Time for a Toast or Speech
Even a short thank-you from the parent-to-be adds a lovely touch.
After the Shower: Final Touches
Send Thank-You Notes
Try to do this within two weeks. Handwritten is always appreciated.
Include:
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Mention of the specific gift
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A warm personal message
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Example: “Thank you so much for the adorable baby blanket and for being part of such a special day. We can’t wait for Baby Ava to meet you!”
USA Baby Shower Extras to Keep in Mind
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Registries: Common registry sites in the U.S. include Amazon, Target, Babylist, and BuyBuy Baby. Include a mix of price points.
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Co-ed Showers: Increasingly common. If it’s a “dadchelor” or co-ed party, mix up games and food accordingly.
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Virtual Showers: For out-of-town guests, Zoom or Facebook Live can be added to the celebration.
Final Thoughts
A baby shower should be joyful, not stressful. This checklist is your go-to tool to stay organized while making it personal and memorable. Whether you’re keeping it simple or going all-out, the key is to celebrate the growing family with warmth and intention.
Take a deep breath—and start checking things off!
