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What is a nesting party?

Think of a nesting party as a baby shower’s low-key cousin, designed to help moms-to-be tackle some of the items on the long list of to-dos before baby arrives—while making them a whole lot easier (and more fun!) to check off. While expectant moms walk away from their baby showers with armloads of gifts from their registries (all of which still need to be cleaned, folded, assembled, and/or organized), this is more of a preparation party focused on simplifying life and getting ready for the whirlwind ahead. It’s about making the home cozy, preparing essentials, gaining insight and advice, and filling their freezer with easy meals they’ll love in those hazy first few weeks postpartum.

The term was coined in 2021 when one very happy mom-to-be took to Instagram to share her gratitude and spread the word. Dietitian and lactation consultant Allegra Gast asked some friends to come help her nest, and it’s no wonder the post went viral as fellow parents took to the comments to celebrate her genius! “I cannot thank these friends enough for helping me on their Saturday to get the nursery put together, my nursing station, my bathroom essentials, meal prepping, and helping me make little toy baggies to cycle around to keep my toddler entertained and just providing me with that support and encouragement,” she said. Because more than any toy or gadget or tiny little outfit, this is what pregnant people need!

How to throw a nesting party

The great thing about a nesting party is that you don’t need a fancy venue or elaborate decorations. Instead, create a laid-back, welcoming environment that prioritizes support and relaxation.

Keep it small and cozy

Think quality over quantity. Your nesting party should be filled with the people you trust most—the ones you’ll actually call when you need a hand (or a snack) in those early days. Invite friends and family who love a hands-on project and keep the vibe relaxed. After all, the goal is a stress-free, low-key gathering that leaves you feeling more prepared and less overwhelmed.

Delegate tasks

Whether you’re throwing the party for yourself or hosting for a bestie, sister, or anyone else, make sure the help actually helps. Create a list of what the parents-to-be want and need, then build the party around that. If freezer meals are the priority, set up a meal-prep station so guests can stockpile ready-to-go dinners. If cleaning and organizing are the focus, write out tasks on note cards so guests can grab one and get to work—no awkward “How can I help?” moments necessary.

Assemble and organize

Baby things can be a challenge to assemble, and even when they’re easy, it’s the last thing you want to have to do when you’re heavily pregnant or in the throes of newborn life. So help your parents-to-be get their gear assembled and organized well in advance. This could mean building the crib, washing and folding baby clothes, putting together diaper or postpartum stations for every floor, assembling the activity center and play gym (how cute is the Ocean Easy-Fold Play Gym by Melissa & Doug?!), or making sure there are a few developmental toys stashed away in different rooms to whip out when needed (hello, Melissa & Doug Flip Fish).

Trade over-the-top games for activities that are helpful and enjoyable

Set up a “words of wisdom” station where guests can share their best parenting advice (or funniest parenting fails). Create a DIY baby-care kit station with essentials like diapers and wipes so guests can assemble something useful. If you want a little friendly competition, try a lighthearted guessing game—like predicting the baby’s birth date or future personality traits. The goal? A fun, relaxed vibe with zero pressure.

Keep the food and drink easy

Pull together a DIY snack station with everything from fruit platters to veggie wraps—easy to eat with no fuss. This way, guests can grab something when it’s convenient for them, and there’s no pressure for everyone to eat at the same time.

Go-to recipes for freezer meals

Any postpartum mom will tell you that the last thing they want to consider is what’s for dinner. That’s where freezer meals come in as a game-changer for nesting parties. Stocking their freezer with ready-to-go meals for the weeks—or even months—after baby arrives is an absolute lifesaver. To make it easy for guests to contribute, we’ve rounded up some favorite freezer-friendly recipes to keep the new parents well-fed while focusing on their little one.

Soups & stews

Instant Pot Beef Stew
Chicken and Rice Soup
Cheesy Chili

Casseroles and pasta bakes

Chicken Pot Pie
Dump-and-Bake Chicken and Vegetable Casserole
Make-Ahead Baked Ravioli
Make-Ahead Spaghetti
White Chicken Enchiladas Casserole

Stir fry

Chicken Teriyaki Stir Fry
Shrimp Stir Fry
Homemade Freezer Stir Fry

Crockpot meals

Maple Pulled Pork
Slow-Cooker Buffalo Chicken
Slow-Cooker Sweet & Sour Pot Roast
Ginger-Turmeric Chicken Soup

For even more ideas, check out these instant-pot freezer recipes.

Don’t forget about digital nesting

A nesting party isn’t just about physical prep—it’s also about sharing advice and talking through major concerns and decisions. One item that’s good to have on the agenda is preparing for baby’s digital future. We’re talking about “Digital Nesting,” the practice of establishing digital boundaries and safety measures that protect a kiddo’s digital footprint.

Here are a few ways to weave digital nesting into your party:

• Have a chat
  Set aside time for a relaxed chat where parents-to-be think about their digital boundaries. Guests can offer tips or share their own experiences, helping to get the expectant parents on the same page before baby arrives.
• Digital nesting workbook
  Create a fun workbook for guests to fill out, covering social media boundaries, photo-sharing rules, and digital privacy preferences. By the end of the party, the parents will have a handy guide to help navigate their baby’s online presence.
• Advice cards
  Set up a station where guests jot down anything they’ve learned along the way, whether it’s their favorite safety resources or tips on online privacy. Collect the cards as a guide to help parents make informed decisions about sharing baby photos and maintaining privacy.

Ultimately, nesting parties are a way to help take away some of the stress of having a baby rather than add to it with a big fancy party. This trend is all about rolling up your sleeves and getting down to business—organizing, prepping, washing, folding, cooking, and, of course, having fun with the people who’ll be there when the real work begins. It’s not just about the baby—it’s about setting the stage for a smooth transition into parenthood with some help from your friends (and a freezer full of meals). No wonder more parents are jumping on the nesting party bandwagon; it’s the “baby prep” trend that actually makes sense.

1. Pregnancy pillow. It’s one of those items you may have felt frivolous buying for yourself, but trust us, it’s worth every extra hour of sleep you’ll receive.

2. Gift certificates for a local baby store. Sometimes doing the shopping yourself is the fun part: browsing through a store and marveling at the teeny tiny booties, adorable newborn outfits, and sweet nursery accents.

3. House cleaning service (before or after the baby comes). This is possibly one of the most useful baby shower gifts anyone can give. As a new parent, not only will you crave a clean home, but with a newborn around, you’ll be sleep-deprived and short on time.

4. Contribution to a doula service. If you are dreaming of a doula birth but can’t afford it, this is one way to get the birth you really want.

5. Hiring a photographer for baby pictures. This is a gift you’ll cherish forever.

6. Personalized new mom note cards. When you meet the first nice mom at mom and baby yoga, you’ll be grateful that it’s easy to keep in touch. Swapping numbers in your phones isn’t always so easy when you’re running off with a hungry newborn.

7. A subscription to Tinybeans. As new parents, there’s nothing like a secure and private way to share memories with family and friends. Your Tinybeans+ subscription includes unlimited photo and video uploads, 200GB of storage, and more—plus it’ll get all those eager relatives begging for updates off your back.

8. Paying for someone to give a CPR and infant first aid class. You’ll rest easier knowing you have these skills just in case.

9. Prenatal or postnatal massage. Be specific about the spa and/or masseuse you prefer because you deserve it.

10. Gift certificate for a pedicure. Your feet could use the extra massage right now, and you can’t see your toes for a DIY pedicure anyway.

11. Date night certificate. Do you feel like you’ll never leave the house after the baby? You’ll have extra motivation if you’ve got a free dinner for two and babysitting booked before they arrive.

12. Shower saver kit. This tongue-in-cheek gift gives a nod to the fact that finding time for a shower after baby isn’t always easy, but this clever gift grouping will make it doable: a clear plastic shower curtain, bath accessories for mom, and a bouncy seat for baby.

13. Cloth diaper service or a supply of disposable diapers. If there’s one thing you know your baby will use, it’s diapers!

14. Emergency diaper kit to leave in the car. This clever and ever-useful wet bag should include diapers, wipes, plastic baggies, and a clean change of clothes.

15. Meals for a month. Having someone organize a meal train of family and friends to provide dinners several days a week, or being gifted a meal delivery service for a month is priceless.

16. Favorite children’s books. Start building your baby’s library from day one. Classic children’s books like these will be treasured forever.

17. Uh-oh kit. This is an easy way to ensure you’re stocked with the necessary first aid supplies including a thermometer, gas tablets, teething tablets, baby pain reliever, nail clippers, diaper rash cream, etc.

18. Handmade hats or blankets. If you’ve got relatives or friends who knit, hint that handmade is appreciated.

19. Nursing pillow. If you overlooked this on your registry—don’t. It’s good for breastfeeding and bottle-feeding moms, and these pillows can be a great spot to prop your baby.

As an expectant mom prepping for baby number one, nothing has stressed me out more than creating my registry. The decisions are endless—and don’t even get me started on the black hole of research that’s eaten up my every free moment. From choosing the right baby monitor to decoding the glossary of breast pump terms (Flanges? Membranes? Double electric? Huh?), my confusion has grown as fast as my Tums dependency.

Thankfully, before throwing in the towel and giving in to a game of registry roulette (choose the first nursing bra or baby carrier that pops up in your search results), I discovered Momcozy. Stocking just about everything you could need from pregnancy to postpartum, Momcozy is your one-stop shop.

So, to help save your time (and your sanity), I’m sharing five newborn baby essentials from Momcozy I’ve not only tested, but have also earned their rightful spot on my registry.

Use code TYBMOM to receive 10% off Momcozy products when shopping for newborn baby essentials!

1. Mobile Style Hands-Free Breast Pump

The lowdown

• It’s hands-free, so you won’t be lugging around any equipment
• Upgraded motor that’s powerful but quiet
• Easy to clean with just four accessories to wash

Why it made the cut

Not everyone breastfeeds or pumps, and fed is definitely best, but I’m keeping my fingers crossed that I’ll be able to give it a go when the time comes—and I’m always on the lookout for products that make the process run more smoothly. Momcozy’s Mobile Style Hands-Free Breast Pump has definitely caught my attention.

For starters, each container holds up to 6.09 ounces of milk, which is solid compared to other options on the market, and with just four accessories to wash, I won’t be spending all my time scrubbing parts. It’s also small and discrete enough that I can easily tote it around and pump on the go.

But best of all, its whisper-quiet motor (no naps ruined here!) has nine levels and three modes: stimulation, expressed, and mixed.  Plus, there’s a nipple-measuring tool to ensure that you get the right fit among the flanges provided.

A friendly heads’ up

If your nipple size falls outside the range of flange sizes they offer (17mm, 19mm, and 21 mm), you might face some issues. Additionally, the parts can’t be sterilized in a microwave or UV sterilizer; instead, you’ll need to add them to boiling water each time for sterilization (which can be cumbersome) if you don’t already own a steam sterilizer.

Buy now for $229.99

2. Ergonomic, Cozy and Lightweight-Baby Carrier

The lowdown

• Exceptional lumbar and back support with its ergonomic design
• Padded neck support and leg openings keep baby comfy
• Adjustable sizing takes you from infant to toddler

Why it made the cut

I hear there’s a lot to do when you’re a new mom, so having my hands free by wearing my baby as much as possible is high on my list. Momcozy’s Ergonomic, Cozy, and Lightweight Baby Carrier seems to tick all the boxes.

I haven’t had my baby yet but I’ve tried the carrier on to get a feel for it, which I highly recommend! With adjustable shoulder and waist straps, it was easier to get into than expected, and the ergonomic cross-shaped design felt great on my already achy back.

The lumbar support is real, and with the padded shoulder straps and soft material, I can see how I’d be comfortable whether I’m on a long walk or a short errand. This carrier is actually padded all over, including built-in neck support and padded leg openings for baby, so we’ll both feel good. Plus, it’s designed to support an infant’s growing spine with three adjustable length positions that go from seven to 44 pounds.

A friendly heads’ up

The carrier doesn’t offer cooling features (like its air mesh successor), so it might get a bit warm, and it only allows one direction for the baby to face. There’s no forward-facing option for when your baby is old enough to enjoy that view.

Buy now for $59.99

3. Jelly-Strip Seamless Floral Push Up Nursing Bra

The lowdown

• All-day comfort with soft, breathable fabric—and no uncomfortable wires!
• One-hand nursing clasp for easy access
• Great coverage with no spillage, plus an added bra extender for a perfect fit

Why it made the cut

Comfort and convenience are paramount when it comes to nursing bras, and the Jelly-strip Seamless Floral Push Up Nursing Bra from Momcozy has been a game-changer for me even while I’m pregnant. Ditching my underwires is the best, but I still feel supported (no spillage here!) and love the soft, breathable fabric.
I’ve tried this bra under tons of outfits and it’s seamless and smooth with a push-up design that offers loads of support.

The shape is perfect too (it discreetly hides the Momcozy Mobile Style Hands-Free Breast Pump!), and the bra extender that’s included means it will grow with me as my body changes. One of my favorite features is the one-hand nursing clasp for easy nursing access, so I’ll spend less time fumbling with my bra and more time cuddling my newborn.

A friendly heads-up

Keep in mind that you may need to size up. I ordered a small, and with the extender, it fits just right with the Mobile Style Hands-Free Breast Pump. So, consider going up a size to ensure the best fit.

Buy now for $39.99

4. KleanPal Pro Bottle Washer

The lowdown

• Efficient and fast cleaning
• Simple setup and use with included washer tablets
• Operates quietly compared to older models

Why it made the cut

Much like laundry, washing baby bottles is one of those chores I’m not looking forward to, so if I can make my life a little easier and avoid the dreaded sink pile-up, I’m down for a splurge. So when I read that you can toss up to six newborn bottles and all of the parts into the KleanPal Pro Bottle Washer, plus your breast pump accessories in the wash basin, I was sold.

It only takes five simple steps to hit the ground running on bottle cleaning, so you won’t waste precious time poring over the manual. Just plug it in, hook the drain pipe up so it empties into the sink, fill it with rinsed bottles and parts, toss in a tablet, add your water, and choose your preferred sterilize and drying settings. That’s it! One of the standout features is how quietly it operates, especially compared to older Momcozy models.

A friendly heads-up

Besides the hefty price tag, there are a couple of drawbacks to consider. The package only comes with a few washer tablets, so you’ll need to purchase more relatively soon. Additionally, while the machine provides both a 19-minute rapid wash and a 29-minute normal wash cycle, drying the bottles can add another hour. This isn’t a huge issue for me, but it’s something to keep in mind if you’re in a hurry.

Buy now for $299.99

5. 1080P High – Performance Video Baby Monitor

The lowdown

• Large battery capacity—up to 12 hours with both voice and display on, and 22 hours with display off and voice on
• Automatic standby activation that turns on in response to sudden noises or movements during the night
• Split-screen functionality with high-quality video and audio that doesn’t lag

Why it made the cut

Like most new parents, I’ll admit that I’m anxious about my newborn sleeping safely, so having a reliable baby monitor is a must. The 1080P High-Performance Video Baby Monitor from Momcozy will hopefully give me the peace of mind needed to sleep when I can and get chores done while keeping an eye on my babe.

With two cameras (and wall mounts for both!), Momcozy gives you the option to tap into the monitor’s split-screen functionality—and without a lag, might we add. You can keep an eye on two kiddos at once, or toggle back and forth between any two rooms. On the split screen, you can control each camera separately, whether it’s playing a lullaby, using the two-way talk system, or tapping into the 360-degree view and 2x and 4x zoom feature.

The set up is also a breeze since there’s no need to pair it with your Wi-Fi. Did I mention that the cameras can also read the room temperature? That’s a win-win in keeping my little one comfortable.

A friendly heads-up

It’s worth noting that each camera needs to be connected to an outlet for power. With no Wi-Fi or app connectivity, there’s no way to see your little if you’re away from home. Although the cameras must be plugged in to work, keep in mind that the monitor itself can be recharged. It has a decent battery life of up to 12 hours if both the display and audio features are on, and provides an energy-saving mode that will keep the screen on stand-by for long periods of time, lighting up only when it detects noise.

Buy now for $139.99

Now that I’ve knocked a few big items off my list, I’m feeling a little more relaxed about my registry (less so about the baby I’ll be sent home within a few months, eep). Momcozy really came through in a pinch with lots of trusted products to try and choose from.

Ready to start your own baby registry? Explore these five newborn baby essentials and more at Momcozy, and use code TYBMOM to receive 10% off your purchase!

While selecting your favorite picks, you can also enter to win a $1,500 box of Momcozy products in just two easy steps. From now through Sunday, June 23, create your Momcozy Baby Registry then share it on Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok by tagging @momcozy and using hashtag #momcozyregistry. Winners will be randomly selected and notified by Momcozy via email on Wednesday, June 26.

“Every pregnant mom needs a nesting party. If you’re pregnant and don’t want a baby shower, do this. If you have a pregnant friend, do this for them!” mom Nia Lui wrote in the caption of her now-viral video.

@nialui21

Replying to @Haley Sheppard Every pregnant mom needs a nesting party. If you’re pregnant and don’t want a baby shower, do this. If you have a pregnant friend, do this for them! #nestingparty #nestingmom #nestingmode #pregnantmom #pregnancy #babyshower #nestingmama #thirdtrimester #ittakesavillage #myvillage @Bri Welcker

♬ original sound – Nia Mullet Mom

In the voiceover, she explains that she just had her nesting party, organized by her friend, Bree.

“I sent her a list of things that I wanted to get done before baby came and she made little cards for each person to take to take on a section of the house,” she says. “Then we took a dinner break, ate some soup, some sourdough bread, some treats, and just chatted about this baby and how it’s going to be. And then we got straight back to work and everything was so clean and organized. and I feel so much more ready for this baby.”

In the video, you can see Nia’s friends hard at work, cleaning, folding clothes, and getting her entire house, top to bottom, ready for her to relax with her new baby. Oh, and everyone who came brought a freezer meal so she’d be set with dinners post-partum.

It’s honestly genius.

In a follow-up video, Nia explained even more how she came up with the nesting party idea.

@nialui21

Replying to @katiecusic Nesting party answers. #nestingparty #babyshower #nesting #nestingmom #womensupportingwomen #momlife #sahm #pregnantmom #nestingmode #nestingmama #thirdtrimester #pregnancy #ittakesavillage #bethevillage #greenscreen

♬ original sound – Nia Mullet Mom

“This is our third baby, so we have everything. We basically don’t need a lot besides diapers and wipes,” she said. And for those wondering where her husband was during all the hard work? He had an important task of his own.

“He took our two boys. I have a six-year-old and a two-year-old,” she explained. “He took them out to an indoor play place, and they went to dinner and he kept them out of the house for three hours so that they wouldn’t be in the way.”

She added, “We got so much done, and it just made me feel so at peace in my own home and way better than a baby shower. So if you don’t want a baby shower or if this is your third or fourth kid, do this.”

When it’s time to plan a baby shower or a baby sprinkle, this is the umbrella you want to stand under. We’ve compiled all of our best articles about baby sprinkle and baby shower themes, games, gifts, and favors to make party planning as easy as possible for you and your host. No matter what type of party you’re planning, we’ve got ideas to match and make the day as special as can be for expecting parents. As they say, let it rain!

Baby Sprinkle & Baby Shower Themes

Everything You Need to Know to Plan a Baby Sprinkle
When it comes to a second (or third or fourth) baby, celebrations look a little different. Read on for tips on how to host a baby sprinkle, a smaller, scaled-back event that’s just as special as the new baby.

12 Stunning Baby Shower Themes You Should Copy
Wow partygoers and the guest of honor with a creative shower inspired by everything from the great outdoors to royal tea parties. Here’s an inside look at 12 showers worth replicating.

9 Gender Neutral Baby Shower Themes to Celebrate Your Surprise
These gender-neutral themes go beyond basic yellow and make not knowing whether it’s a boy or a girl part of the fun.

Baby Shower Games & Activities

10 Unique Baby Shower Games Your Friends Will Love
Baby shower games get your guests laughing and chatting, especially if you step up your party game with these creative activities.

Free Baby Shower Games for Your Next Celebration
Don’t break your baby-shower budget purchasing supplies for games to keep guests entertained. Save a few bucks and still have a fun celebration with baby shower games you can pull together with things you may already have, or by firing up your printer.

The Best Baby Shower DIY Craft Projects
If your baby shower guests are crafty types, these fun projects will help them to get creative—and give mom useful, one-of-a-kind keepsakes that remind her of family and friends.

Baby Sprinkle & Shower Gift Ideas

The Ultimate Baby Registry Checklist for New Parents-to-Be
Who knew a tiny baby would need so much stuff? We did! So here it is, our definitive list of everything you could possibly need when your baby arrives.

Baby Sprinkle Gifts: What to Get the Mom-to-Be Who Has Everything
What do you get the mom-to-be who already has all the baby basics? Read on to find some great gifts even the most experienced expectant mom will appreciate.

19 Useful Baby Shower Gifts Moms-to-Be Will Treasure
We’ve done our research and come up with 19 ideas that you will actually use and appreciate having after your baby’s arrival.

10 Splurge-Worthy Baby Shower Gifts
From the coziest crib sheets to high-tech bassinets, read on to discover something to W-O-W every expecting parent.

Favors for Your Baby Shower

16 Unique Baby Shower Favors to Wow Your Guests
From a floral favor bar to mini bottles of bubbly that are ready to pop just like the mom-to-be, these baby shower favor ideas will make your shower stand out—and show guests they’re appreciated. 

You’ve figured out the theme, decided on decor, and as far as games are concerned, you’re the reigning queen. But putting those finishing touches on the celebration you’re planning is where you can really wow your guests and the parents-to-be. Our suggestion? Try one of these adorable baby shower favors we can’t get enough of. From a floral favor bar to delicious treats, these creative favor ideas will not only impress your guests, it’ll make them feel appreciated, too. Make sure to put these baby shower favor ideas for a boy or a girl on your baby shower planning checklist.

Place Card Holder & Picture Frame

Write each guest's name on the included chalkboard insert to use this as a place card holder ($3.50). Then guests can use them as picture frames after the party.

Feathering the Nest Salt & Pepper Shakers

Foodie friends will especially love this fun and functional mini salt & pepper shaker shaped like baby birds. And baby shower planners will appreciate that it already comes in an adorable gift box, perfect for a gift table or to set alongside each person's plate at a dining table. 

Tea Light Holder

Set a blue or pink theme with tea light candleholders, like this one from Just Artifacts. It comes in two shades of pink or blue, as well as several other colors to match your color scheme. Add tea lights in your favorite scent to give your shower a warm glow and ambience.

"Watch Me Grow" Succulent

A pint-sized, easy-to-maintain succulent is the perfect gift for guests to take home and enjoy. Add this adorable "Watch me grow" tag ($12.50+ for 25 tags) from Etsy shop Bordon Specifics for a low-cost party favor guests will be raving about.

Soap with a Customized Label

For a gender-neutral gift that guests can use after the big event, get these sweet-smelling soaps ($23 for 15 bars) from Etsy shop Mod Party. Leave them in a basket by the door for guests to take when they leave. You choose the color and text on the label to send off guests with a gift from your shower to their shower. 

Flower Favor Bar

A floral favor bar can be as extravagant as you like, and it serves as decor, activity and party favor all in one. Ask guests to arrange small bouquets while socializing at the party to bring home with them when they leave. Provide ribbons to wrap up their creations. Caitlin Kruse, brand and creative partnerships director at Glitter Guide, proves that fresh flowers offer a bang for your buck.

Gourmet Popcorn

Ready to pop! This theme is perfect for baby showers and fun to weave through your entire baby fete. Add the label to bags of gourmet popcorn, and you have the perfect edible favor (and party snack) for your guests. We love how Style Me Pretty made it classy and fun.

She's Going to Pop Mini Champagne Bottles

If you prefer to pop with bubbly, these custom labels ($15+) from Etsy shop Studio B Labels dress up mini champagne bottles and add flair to your soiree. Label colors can be customized.

Baby-Shower-Themed Cookies

Make cookies in the shape of a onesie, bib, rattle, baby bottle and old-fashioned baby carriage with this set of cookie cutters ($13). It comes with a recipe booklet, or make the mom-to-be's favorite treats.

"Sweet as Can Bee" Mini Honey Pots

Perfect for a tea party theme, your guests will be buzzing about these "sweet as can bee" mini honey pots ($4-$5) from BeauCoop. The ceramic beehive is decorated with bumblebees and features with a wooden honey dipper topped with a heart. Each item comes individually wrapped in a clear gift box topped with ribbon. 

Gimme S'more Trail Mix

Outdoorsy types will love this trail mix, sweetened with mini marshmallows, chocolate candies and honey-flavored cereal. Evermine Occasions whipped this up for a woodland-themed baby shower, but the recipe can easily be adapted to the mom-to-be's cravings. Put out bowls of this tasty treat for guests to snack on during the shower, and give each guest a jar to take home.

The Perfect Shade of Polish

You can never have too many nail polishes, so send guests home with the perfect shade of pink or blue nail polish to use at their next mani or pedi. Wrap each bottle in one of these sweet labels (5+) from Etsy shop Recipe Box Designs; the tags come in a variety of colors to match your event.

Hair Ties

Sparkly elastic hair ties ($3) are a festive and practical reminder of a baby shower. Etsy shop Plum Polka Dot makes hair ties with messages to celebrate baby-to-be, in a variety of colors and patterns. The boy hair ties include an awesome mustache print. If the baby's gender is a surprise, go with "ready to pop" or "twinkle, twinkle, little star" messages.

Baby Bottle Mason Jars

Turn a mason jar into a baby bottle favor for a fun favor (or a prize for your shower games). Fawn Over Baby filled hers with the dry ingredients of oatmeal chocolate chip cookies for a creative treat to be enjoyed post-shower.

Coffee Mugs

Celebrate the coffee the new mom will need to stay up after all those sleepless nights with baby with a “Coffee and Cravings” shower theme, courtesy of Paula of Frog Prince Paperie. Her shower included custom coffee mugs that doubled as favors so guests could enjoy their favorite brew at home. You can choose matching mugs or a variety with funny messages or sweet sayings.

Mini "Sweetie Pie" Favors

These delectable (and homemade) pastries were whipped up for one lucky mom-to-be by Jenny Hobick of Everyday Occasions. Devour the delicious step-by-step photos and check out the surprisingly easy-as-pie recipe on the JSH Home Essentials blog. The "sweetie pie" label makes the perfect accompaniment.

—Lauren Hill & Aimee Della Bitta

RELATED STORIES:

10 Baby Shower Games Your Friends Will Love

10 Splurge-Worthy Baby Shower Gifts

9 Gender Neutral Baby Shower Themes to Celebrate Your Surprise

When you’re planning the activities for a baby shower, you’re looking for games that are easy to learn, fun to play and not likely to make guests cringe. These games are all that and more.

ABC Baby Book

The prize for this game goes to the mom-to-be, who gets a homemade alphabet book crafted by her favorite people. Let guests choose what image to draw for each letter or, if you think they'll need inspiration, choose a theme for the book (it can even match the shower theme). Stop by the cuppacocoa blog for a free template and full instructions.

Baby Guess Who?

Maximum fun with minimal prep work: Guests email you baby photos of themselves prior to the shower, and you print them up, number each one, and create a display on a wall or table. Print out numbered sheets where guests can try to match each guest to the pictures. 

Year One Bucket List

There are so many memorable things parents can do with their baby in the first year, but with baby brain, it can be hard to remember to do them. Have guests write down one first-year bucket-list item (from blowing. bubbles to visiting the zoo) on a note card and drop it into a basket for the mom-to-be to take home. Bonus points for using a diaper caddy as the basket, like the one above from Keababies, since the mom will find this invaluable for diaper changes. 

Clothing Decorating Station

Fill up baby’s wardrobe with customized outfits using blogger Lovely Indeed’s decorating station idea. Provide solid-colored baby clothes in a variety of styles and sizes, fabric markers, iron-on designs, and an iron. Your friends will have fun designing these tiny outfits, and Mom will get one-of-a-kind baby gear made with love.

Wishes for Baby

Ask every guest to share a wish for the new baby in this sweet idea from the Art Bar blog. Use pastel card stock and the blog’s free animal templates, or use scrapbook paper and your own shapes for the cards. Hang ribbon and small clothespins on your wall so guests can post their wishes for everyone to read.

Candy in a Baby Bottle

For a super easy game, fill baby bottles with a set amount of small candies, like sprinkles. Place a bottle at each table with a note that asks guests to guess the number of candies. This game doubles as an icebreaker as tablemates try to figure out the exact number. At each table, the person with the closest guess can win the candy.

Play-Doh Creations

Give each guest a container of Play-Doh and 15 minutes to sculpt a baby-related masterpiece (like a baby, pacifier or bottle). Let the mother-to-be pick her favorite to win a prize.

Hand-Crafted Baby Blocks

Ask shower guests to show off their artistic sides by decorating baby blocks. Provide blank wooden blocks, markers, stickers and more (Fireflies and Mudpies has instructions for making these textured blocks) and let your guests get creative. After the party, paint the blocks with a natural wood varnish for a special gift for baby.

 

Children's Book Quiz

For a book-loving mom-to-be, set up a quiz with trivia from classic children’s books. Or, create a fill-in-the-blank quiz with titles of children’s books. This is a good way to get guests chatting, as they remember their own childhood favorites.

Match the Socks

All you need to play this game are a bunch of new baby socks in different colors, patterns, and sizes and a cute laundry basket. We love the sock bundles from Cheski Sock Company, shown above. Throw the unpaired socks into the basket, set a timer, and have each guest match as many as they can in one minute. Mom-to-be gets a laundry basket and a great sock collection for baby, and your friends get a workout and some laughs. 

— Katie L. Carroll

featured image: iStock

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As Sweet As Can Bee Baby Shower Bundle

These winsome baby shower cards are buzzing with honeycombs and bumble bee illustrations, ready to celebrate the mommy-to-bee. Simply edit the downloadable template and print these sweet baby shower invitations at home. 

Available online: $15.99 for an editable template from Etsy shop Mad & Jules Paperie. 

The Sweetest Bundle

If the baby shower is a sip & see, there is no sweeter way to announce the party than with a beautiful image of the new baby bundle. This virtual invitation from Paperless Post can be customized in blue or pink. 

Available online: From $0.50/person for a virtual invitation from paperlesspost.com. 

A Golden Invitation

Go golden with a baby shower that pays tribute to one of the sweetest book collections for littles: the Golden books. This digital download package includes everything you could need for well-themed baby shower. Editable templates include baby shower invitations, baby shower favor cards, baby shower water bottle labels, a baby shower welcome sign and more. 

Available online: $9.99 for an editable template from Etsy shop Swirly World Design. 

Watercolor Woodland Animals

This printed card from Minted artist Lori Wemple features pastel woodland animals in a floral ring around the announcement. The mix of soft purples, pinks and blues is the perfect motif for the mom-to-be that doesn't yet know if she's having a girl or boy. This invitation set can be customized to be monochromatic so you can let your guests know ahead of time if you're celebrating a baby boy or a baby girl. 

Available online: From $0.88/postcard and $1.25/card from minted.com 

Pretty in Pink

Go paperless with an elegant invitation from Evite. This girly baby shower invitation is a premium offering; you can customize the color of the envelope, stamp and liner.

Available online: $14.99 for a premium virtual invite from evite.com. 

Cuddle Up to a Classic

Give a nod to one of the most beloved literary characters with this baby shower editable template featuring the adorable Winnie the Pooh. Easily customize the cards without using any special software or programs. 

Available online: $12.50 for an editable template by Etsy shop Best Celebrations. 

The Baby Elephant Parade

Elephants are an enduring symbol of happiness and longevity, which make them a great motif for a baby shower! This delicate watercolor shows a baby elephant being led by its mother. 

Available online: From $1.48/card from tinyprints.com. 

Twinkle, Twinkle Little Twins

One of the sweetest surprises has to be the news that mom-to-be isn't having one baby, she's having two! Celebrate her baby twins with a printed invitation that really sparkles with glitter foil paper. 

Available online: From $1.75/printed invitation from minted.com. 

Once Upon a Sweet, Sweet Time

Hear ye, hear ye! Mom-to-be has the most enchanted news in all the land. Celebrate the upcoming arrival of her new princess with these virtual baby shower invitations from Greenvelope. This winsome design features an ornate illustration of a castle, complete with a scroll border. 

Available online: Send up to 10 cards free from greenvelope.com. 

Drifting Away with a Baby Sprinkle

Second-time (or third, fourth...you get the idea) moms deserve to be celebrated, too. This printed invitation set from Shutterfly is adorned with cute pastel umbrellas. Choose a pearl shimmer cardstock and you can make this sprinkle sparkle. 

Available online: From $0.91/each from shutterfly.com. 

featured image: Rinck Content Studio via Unsplash

1. Keep It Simple—or Don’t!
When planning a virtual baby shower, the first thing to keep in mind is that, like a traditional, in-person shower, a virtual event can be as simple or as detailed as the mama-to-be wants it to be. There is no right or wrong way to host a baby shower, so let go of the pressure or any preconceived notions of how it “ought” to go and just have fun!

2. Make a List of Attendees
If you’re in search of a silver lining to having a virtual baby shower (there are lots!), here is one to get you started: unlimited invites. Having to pare down an invite list due to venue size or budget restraints can be one of the hardest parts of this type of event, but with a virtual party, you can open the doors for as many people as you want to pour on the love to the soon-coming bundle of joy.

3. Pick a Platform
There are a few different ways to go about throwing a virtual baby shower. Some reliable go-tos are Zoom, Skype, FaceTime, Google Hangouts, or Evite. There is a bit of a learning curve to learning how to use these video-conferencing sites, so familiarize yourself with the platform of your choice and try out a few test runs with friends before the big day. That way you can help guide attendees, especially those who aren’t that tech-savvy. (Important note: On Zoom, you’ll have to pay for a “Pro” account or restart your meeting every 40 minutes. Google Hangouts and Skype don’t have set time limits on meetings.) 

4. Invite Right
Choose a party time when most people are likely to be available to attend. Create an online invite using a service like Minted, Paperless Post, or Evite (which now offers direct video-chatting capabilities) with the shower’s date, time, and name of the host. Be sure to note clearly that this baby shower is a virtual event, and include any necessary meeting log-in information. It can be helpful to set the party time 10 minutes earlier than the time you share with the mom-to-be so everyone is ready and waiting to celebrate when the special guest logs in. Of course, traditional registry information should also be included if gifts are desired by the mama-to-be. (Including an “order by” deadline can be helpful to encourage gifts to arrive on time.) 

5. Encourage Guests to Decorate
It can be easy to overlook the decorations in a virtual baby shower, but having a few decor items—-balloons, banners, streamers—will turn a hangout into a special event. Ask all invitees to jazz up their backgrounds with some basic party decor or baby-shower-themed items. To give guests extra motivation, frame the request in the invite as a contest, with a virtual gift card to be sent to the winner. 

6. Get Ready for Game Time
In a traditional party setting, the small talk and side conversations can easily fill an hour or two, but a video call doesn’t allow for the same easy-flowing conversation that would happen at an in-person shower. So you’ll want to plan games that encourage interaction among invitees. Some fun ideas: charades (only baby-themed words allowed, of course!) or a scavenger hunt show-and-tell. In this game, you give everyone a minute to dash around their house and find items that could be used, for example, to entertain/soothe/clothe/etc. an infant, and then have each person explain what they chose. Laughs guaranteed. 

7. Plan for Gifts
If the new mom created a registry and information was sent out via invites, opening gifts that arrived before the virtual baby shower is a fun activity to round out the event and give the gift-givers a chance to see mom-to-be’s reaction to their gifts. If the baby shower is more of a “sprinkle,” and opening gifts isn’t part of the plan, there is a way to still shower the expecting mom with love in a tangible way: Compile a basket with always-appreciated baby items (like wipes and pacis) and self-care products, such as a new water bottle or gift cards for coffee or takeout. Drop off the basket before the event with instructions not to open it until shower time.