A baby shower celebrates the parents-to-be and helps them prepare for their new arrival. Whether you're hosting for your best friend, sister, or colleague, this guide covers everything from etiquette to execution — so you can throw a shower they'll remember.
When to Host a Baby Shower
Traditional timing: Most baby showers happen between weeks 28-32 of pregnancy. This gives the mom-to-be time to enjoy the celebration while still feeling comfortable, and leaves room for any items that need to be purchased after the shower.
Day and time: Sunday brunch and Saturday afternoon are the most popular times. Brunch showers (10am-1pm) work well because they're relaxed, the menu is straightforward, and guests have the rest of the day free.
Who Hosts a Baby Shower?
Traditionally, baby showers were hosted by friends rather than immediate family (to avoid the appearance of the family asking for gifts). Today, that etiquette has relaxed. Sisters, mothers, mothers-in-law, and friends all commonly host — sometimes together.
Co-hosting tip: If multiple people want to contribute, designate one person as the primary coordinator to avoid confusion. Others can help with specific tasks like invitations, decorations, or the guest list.
Choosing a Venue
Home showers are intimate and budget-friendly but require setup, cleanup, and parking considerations. They work best for smaller guest lists (under 20).
Restaurant private rooms offer convenience but may have minimum spend requirements and limited decoration options.
Event venues provide dedicated space, catering, and coordination. This removes hosting burden and allows you to focus on the celebration rather than logistics. Many venues offer brunch packages perfect for showers.
Creating the Guest List
Work with the mom-to-be to create the guest list. Include close family, friends, and possibly colleagues. Consider whether it will be women-only or a co-ed 'baby-q.' Keep the list manageable for your venue and budget.
Registry reminder: Include registry information with the invitation (or on a separate insert). It's not rude — it's helpful! Guests want to know what the parents actually need.
Planning the Program
Baby showers don't need elaborate entertainment. A typical 2-3 hour shower includes:
- Guest arrival and mingling (30 min)
- Brunch or lunch service (45 min)
- Games or activities — optional (20-30 min)
- Gift opening (45 min-1 hour)
- Cake and winding down (30 min)
Game ideas: Baby bingo, guess the baby food, price is right (baby items), and advice cards are all popular. Keep games short and optional for guests who'd rather just chat.
Baby Shower Venues in Monmouth County
At Branches in West Long Branch, our brunch packages start at $49 per person and include a beautiful buffet spread, private event space, and all the setup and cleanup. We handle the logistics so the host can focus on celebrating.
