Frequently asked questions about planning a baby shower

A baby shower is a party for the mum-to-be, usually before the birth. Guests celebrate her, bring gifts, play games and leave personal wishes.

Often between weeks 28 and 34 of the pregnancy. Pick a moment when the mum-to-be still feels good.

Usually friends, sisters, family members or colleagues take care of it. It often stays a surprise for the mum-to-be.

Count on 2 to 4 hours. That is long enough for snacks, gifts, games and relaxed time together.

That depends on the mum-to-be. A small group of 8 to 12 people feels personal. A bigger group works too, but takes more planning.

Set the date, location, guest list, invitation, snacks, games and decorations. Then carry one style through, from the cards to the decorations and the table.

An invitation, fill-in cards, games, decorations, table decorations, possibly a welcome sign, favours and gifts.

The costs depend on the location, food, number of guests and products. Hosting at home is usually cheaper than hiring a venue.

The organisers often split the costs. Sometimes guests chip in a small amount.

Choose products that suit the mum-to-be. Add a name, personal texts, fill-in cards and a welcome sign.

Date, time, location, the name of the mum-to-be, an RSVP request and the practical details.

Send the invitation 4 to 6 weeks in advance.

Yes. A digital invitation is practical and quick to share.

It does not have to be. Some mums-to-be love a surprise, others prefer to know what is coming.

Baby Bingo, the Baby Shower Quiz, Mum or Dad, Who Knows Mum Best, Baby Predictions and Wishes for the Parents are easy games everyone can join.

Two or three games are usually enough.

Baby Bingo, the Baby Shower Quiz, fill-in cards and Baby Predictions work well at the table.

Calm games are games without challenges or much moving around. Think of fill-in cards, quiz cards or Baby Bingo.

Cards on which guests write wishes, advice, memories or predictions.

Yes. Fill-in cards are often more practical because everyone can write at the same time.

Count on one card per guest and order a few extra.

Keep them in a box, a folder or an album.

Choose something personal for the mum-to-be, something practical for the baby or something that lasts as a keepsake.

A small card, a gift bag, plantable seed paper or another small detail always goes down well.

No. They are a lovely gesture towards your guests, though.

A package, a personal gift or a bigger product works well as a group gift.

A welcome sign, table decorations and a few matching cards are often enough.

Decorations dress up the whole room. Table decorations cover only what is on the table: cards, games and small details.

Choose one style and limit the number of colours.

Yes. A welcome sign works at home, at a hired venue and just as well at a brunch or afternoon tea.

A package with products to set up the baby shower, such as cards, games, fill-in cards and decorations.

No. It is meant for the day itself, not as a box of baby items.

That depends on the package. Choose based on your number of guests.

Yes. Simply add extra products in the same style.

A baby shower is almost always held before the birth. Just as common is a party after the birth, where guests meet the baby.

Yes. Invitations, welcome signs, favours, fill-in cards and decorations suit a party after the birth just as well.

No. Choose the style that suits the mum-to-be.

No. Neutral, navy, beige or green works just as well.

A baby shower without a clear pink or blue colour choice. Think of soft tones, natural colours or calm patterns.

A baby sprinkle is a smaller celebration for a second or later baby.

A mum blessing is a quieter, more personal moment for the mum-to-be.

A dadchelor is a celebration for the dad-to-be, often more laid-back and focused on activities.