How to Plan a Baby Shower after the Delivery

Most baby shower parties are planned prior to the birth of an expected baby, but some situations may call for holding a celebration after baby is born instead. If the parents have not discovered the sex of the baby and are waiting for a surprise in the delivery room, the expectant mom has had complications and is required to stay on bed rest or in the hospital, or other timing issues arrived with planning the baby shower prior to the birth, this may be the case.

However, there are some considerations when planning a post-birth baby shower. Mom and dad need some time to adjust to their new schedule, and baby needs to build his or her immune system to come to the party, too.

Baby shower parties planned after the birth should be scheduled approximately 4 to 6 weeks afterward. Following is a suggested timeline for planning such a baby shower:

1. 5 to 6 weeks before the selected baby shower date, a specific time should be selected, as well as a theme if there is to be one. Reserving a location will need to be completed, and a guest list needs to be drafted. Also purchase baby shower invitations, and complete a menu plan for the event.

2. 4 to 5 weeks prior to the baby shower, the guest list should be finalized, and you should mail out the invitations to allow for appropriate time for them to plan on attending. Decide which baby shower games will be part of the schedule, and purchase prizes for the winners. Baby shower favors should be acquired, as well as decorations and any paper goods like plates, cups and plastic silverware. This is when the menu needs to be finalized and planned, too.

3. 3 weeks before the baby shower, confirm your location reservation if this applies to your situation. If you’re holding the party at your home, plan for and borrow any needed additional furniture to accommodate everyone.

4. 1 week before the shower, contact any guests who have not RSVP’d to determine the final guest count. Also outline the proposed schedule for activities, food, games and opening the gifts. Start cleaning your home if the baby shower is to be held there.

This is a great time to order the baby shower cake, flowers and start shopping for menu items. You can also get a head start by preparing the food that can be frozen ahead of time. Also, contact the expectant mother and ensure she has adequate transportation to take all of her new gifts home with her, and find additional volunteers to help with this process if needed.

5. A couple of days before the baby shower, finish preparing the menu, cleaning the house, decorate and reconfirm the location.

6. On the day of the baby shower party, allow for plenty of time to finish any decorations or complete the process at a rented facility. Get the cameras ready, pick up the cake and any balloons or flowers, and have the food and beverages prepared for serving. Finally, relax and have fun, and begin greeting guests as they arrive at the scheduled time!