Gender Reveal or Baby Shower? Here's How to Choose the Right One for You
Mirthe Grooten When you're pregnant, sooner or later the question arises: “Are we going to celebrate?”
Some people dream of a cheerful baby shower with friends and family, while others dream of an intimate moment where the baby's gender is revealed. And sometimes, you just want both.
But what really suits you — and when is the best time to combine them?
In this selection guide we help you step by step choose between a gender reveal , a baby shower or a combination party .
What's the difference between a baby shower and a gender reveal?
Although both holidays revolve around pregnancy, they differ in timing, purpose, and atmosphere.
| Aspect | Baby shower | Gender Reveal |
|---|---|---|
| Moment | Around week 24–32 | Around week 16–20 |
| Goal | Celebrating pregnancy and giving gifts | Revealing the baby's gender |
| Realm | Warm, festive, relaxed | Exciting, short and emotional moment |
| Organization | Often by family or friends | Sometimes by friends, sometimes by parents themselves |
In practice, the two increasingly overlap. Many parents opt for a single joint party that incorporates both elements.
Are you choosing a baby shower?
A baby shower is ideal if you:
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especially want to relax and celebrate with your loved ones,
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loves decoration, styling and coziness,
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would rather keep the gender a secret or if it is already known,
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would like to receive gifts or share a list.
The baby shower is less suitable if you don't like crowds or prefer to keep things small and practical.
In that case, a nesting party might be a better fit for you — a calmer alternative where help and preparation are central.
Are you choosing a gender reveal?
A gender reveal is a good idea if you:
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would like to discover the gender of your baby with others ,
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loves tension and emotion,
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want a shorter and visual moment instead of a day-long party,
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enjoy involving family from a distance via livestream or video.
Note: Keep the unveiling conscious and safe. The trend is shifting from smoke and confetti to creative, sustainable alternatives—from cake to light projections.
This way the focus remains on the moment, not on the effect.
Or… do you just combine them?
Not sure? Then a combination party is probably the best choice.
It combines the fun of a baby shower with the highlight of a gender reveal.
Less hassle, one party, and everything in one atmosphere.
A combination party is especially suitable if:
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your family and friends live further away,
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you have little time to plan two parties,
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or if you want one big, memorable moment.
👉 In that case, it's a good idea to get inspired by our guide:
Gender Reveal × Baby Shower — all in one event .
Practical considerations
When making your choice, also consider:
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Time and energy: do you want to organize multiple moments or would you prefer one well-planned party?
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Budget: two separate parties can be more expensive, but also more flexible.
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Personality: Do you feel comfortable in a quiet, intimate moment or in a festive setting?
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Timing: Does the chosen date suit your energy level and the schedules of your loved ones?
There is no right or wrong — the right choice is the one that makes you (and your family) feel good.
The most important tip: celebrate your way
There's no manual for the perfect celebration. Whether you choose a gender reveal, baby shower, nesting party, or a combination of both, it's your story.
The only thing that matters is that the moment contributes to peace, connection and fun.
Don't celebrate because you're supposed to, celebrate because it feels good.
