6 Tips: Organizing a baby shower for your best friend

The moment your best friend becomes a mother changes your friendship forever - in the most beautiful way possible. Hosting a baby shower isn't just a celebration; it's a powerful message that you're there for her during this new phase.

Scientific research shows that strong social support from friends during pregnancy is directly linked to a more positive birth experience and a lower risk of postnatal depression ( source: Woman's Health Bull. ). Your organizational skills literally contribute to her well-being!

Here are 6 steps to make her baby shower a huge success.

1. Choose a theme that suits her

A theme provides a framework for decorating. You can also incorporate this into your activity. Just make sure it fits the personality of the (expectant) mom.

• For those seeking peace and quiet: Go for a botanical theme with lots of plants and natural materials. Organize a high tea or a fun outdoor activity.
• The Adventurer: Choose a travel theme or an interactive setting, like an escape room. Your mom loves a bit of a challenge!
• The down-to-earth friend: Skip the overdone decorations and focus on a good lunch with her favorite dishes. An original activity can take things to the next level.

There are numerous thema's perfect for any babyshower! Still looking for some inspiration for the perfect unique theme? Discover 45 fun babyshower themes! 

2. Introduce a 'Memory Jar' for lasting memories

One of the nicest ways to collect personal messages is a Memory Jar : a beautiful glass jar in which guests leave notes.

Make it concrete: Guests often find it difficult to come up with something original on the spot. Help them by leaving out cards with opening lines like, "My funniest memory with you is..." or "I'm sure you'll be a great mom because..." . This way, she'll have a jar full of valuable stories later on, instead of just "good luck."

3. The surprise: Consider her energy

A complete surprise is often 'the standard', but not always the best choice for a pregnant friend.

My sister, for example, preferred to be informed, so I'd already told her when the baby shower was planned. I kept the activity, where it was going, and who was there a secret. Many pregnant women struggle with their energy levels, so keep that in mind.

• Communicate the date: Tell her the exact day of the party so she doesn't make other plans and can manage her energy. Of course, keep the specific location and details a secret.
• The group chat: Create a WhatsApp group for the guests, but ask everyone to keep their texts to a minimum in the hours leading up to the shower. Nothing gives away a surprise faster than a constantly ringing phone.

Need some help with the organization of the babyshower? Discover the complete baby shower checklist. That way you can be certain that you won't forget anything! 

4. Avoid 'passive' entertainment

Watching the expectant mother unwrapping presents for hours can get a little awkward for both her and the guests.

Create interaction: An activity where guests work together often works better. Our printable escape rooms are specially designed for this. Guests solve a mystery together, which immediately loosens up the atmosphere and shifts the focus from "watching the belly" to "having fun together."

There are plenty of fun activities to organize during a baby shower. Ideally, it should tie in well with the chosen theme (which, of course, perfectly suits the mom).

Ready for some unique activities for your babyshower? Discover these 5 original babyshower games! 

5. Give gifts that she can use after the birth

Sure, those little socks are adorable, but don't forget about the post-baby shower period. The postpartum period will be a challenge for all new mothers (and fathers).

• The Meal Train: Have guests fill out "vouchers" for a home-cooked meal they'll bring during the postpartum week (or the week after). (You could also do this for "babysitting" or "cleaning help," for example. They'll feel they don't have enough time for all the "normal" things during the first few weeks!)
• Digital help: For the friend who likes structure, our Digital Pregnancy Planner an ideal gift to keep all appointments and reminders in one place.

Looking for inspiration for the best gift (for all sorts of budgets)? Discover them in our 'Baby Shower Gift Guide'.

6. Guard the Boundaries (You are the 'Bodyguard')

Whether you're planning an interactive baby shower for your sister or best friend, they'll quickly get tired during pregnancy. As a best friend (or sister), you know her limits best.

• Duration: A three-hour baby shower is often perfect. It's long enough to be enjoyable, but short enough not to completely exhaust her.
• The cue: Agree on a subtle gesture beforehand. When she indicates it's enough, you're the one to bring the afternoon to a peaceful close. This way, she doesn't have to feel awkward in front of the guests.
  
  

Don't make it too difficult for yourself

It doesn't have to be the most spectacular day ever; it's about her feeling seen and supported by her loved ones. With a little planning and consideration for her needs, it will definitely be a success.

Want to boost group dynamics with an original game? Check out our interactive baby shower games For an action-packed afternoon without hours of preparation. You can even join in the fun without a care in the world!