How long should a baby shower last?

Most showers run 90–120 minutes, which leaves time for arrivals, one icebreaker, a feature moment or reveal, cake, and photos.

What time of day is best for a shower?

Late morning for brunch showers or mid-afternoon (2–4 PM) works well for most guests and lighting for photos.

What can we do instead of lots of games?

Use low-pressure options like Advice Cards and Baby Shower Bingo during gifts, plus a simple photo scavenger list.

Baby Shower Ideas, Planning Tools & Free Printables

📋 Download Your Planning Checklist

Get our printable 8-week timeline checklist with checkboxes for every task. Perfect for staying organized!

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8 Weeks Out

1Choose host(s) + budget range ($50 / $150 / $300 templates).
2Pick date/time, indoor/outdoor, and back-up location.
3Choose theme & vibe (woodland, boho, celestial, gender-neutral).
4Draft guest list + collect emails/addresses.
5Book venue/room or block a backyard/patio.

6 Weeks Out

1Send invites (print or digital).
2Pick reveal method (if any) + safety-first alt.
3Outline menu: sweets, 1–2 savory, 1 signature drink.
4Choose 2–3 games + prizes.
5Assign roles: photographer friend, set-up, cleanup.

4 Weeks Out

1Order cake/cupcakes or dessert; confirm allergens.
2Buy/borrow decor (backdrop + table focal point).
3Order printables (welcome sign, tally board, tent cards).
4Plan playlist; test speakers.
5Arrange rentals (chairs/table/ice chest) if needed.

3 Weeks Out

1Confirm RSVPs; follow up on stragglers.
2Draft run of show (90–120 min is perfect).
3Create shopping list (food, drinks, plates, cutlery, tape).
4Prep game printouts & pens.

2 Weeks Out

1Finalize headcount; adjust food/cake order.
2Build shot list (see below).
3Prepare prize basket + favors (optional).
4Map layout (entrance → welcome → gifts → dessert → games → photo wall).

Week-Of

1Shop pantry items & decor tape/hooks.
2Charge phone, camera, speaker battery.
3Pack host kit: scissors, tape, string, command hooks, pens, markers, wipes, trash bags.
4Confirm helpers & arrival times.

Day-Of Run Sheet (example, 2–4 PM)

1:15Set-up team arrives; backdrop & table styling.

1:50Music on; test light for photos.

2:00Guests arrive; stickers/pins for Don't Say "Baby."

2:15Icebreaker game (Emoji or Rhyme Quiz).

2:35Snacks/drinks; mingle photos.

2:50Feature game or reveal.

3:05Cake & congrats photos.

3:25Gifts or Advice Cards share.

3:50Thank-you & favor table.

4:00Group photo; begin tidy.

Shot List (quick)

Must-Have Photos:

• Entrance sign
• Parents with host
• Each grandparent
• Group with backdrop
• Games in action

Special Moments:

• Reveal/cake moment
• Hands on bump
• Detail flat-lays (invites, dessert, favors)

Rain Plan / Backup

Outdoor → Indoor Backup:

Doorway/backlit window + LED scene swap reveal.

Windy Day Alternative:

Switch to puzzle/scratch-off reveal and indoor photos.

Related Planning Resources

Baby Shower Themes

Choose the perfect theme for your celebration

Gender Reveal Invitations

Perfect wording for surprise reveals

Baby Shower Games

Fun activities for all guests

Gender Reveal Decorations

Beautiful decor ideas for reveals

Gender Reveal Cake Ideas

Sweet surprise cake designs

8-Week Baby Shower Planning Timeline (Step-by-Step)