When to Have a Baby Shower (and a Planning Timeline)
Too early and you don't know what you need. Too late and the guest of honour is exhausted, or already holding the baby.
In this guide · 5
Most baby showers are held between 28 and 34 weeks of pregnancy, roughly four to ten weeks before the due date. By then the pregnancy feels settled, many parents know the gender if they want to, and there's still time to use the gifts and buy what's missing. After about 36 weeks the mum-to-be may be tired, and the baby could arrive early.
| Situation | Usual timing |
|---|---|
| First baby, single | 28 to 34 weeks |
| Twins or more | 24 to 30 weeks (twins often arrive early) |
| Mum-to-be has to rest or travel is hard | Earlier, or online |
| Family custom is to wait | A few weeks after the birth (a "sip and see") |
| Second or later baby | Any time; often a smaller "sprinkle" |
Planning timeline
- 8 to 10 weeks before: agree who is hosting, set a budget and pick a date and place.
- 6 to 8 weeks before: make the guest list with the parents-to-be, and set up the registry.
- 4 to 6 weeks before: send invitations with the registry link (6 weeks in December or summer holidays).
- 3 weeks before: choose the theme, decorations and two or three games.
- 1 to 2 weeks before: confirm numbers, order the cake and food, buy prizes.
- The day before: set up decorations, charge any phones or speakers, print game sheets.
- After the shower: help the parents keep a list of who gave what, for thank-you notes.
Who hosts a baby shower?
Traditionally a close friend, sister or relative hosts, not the parents-to-be. Today it's common for a mother or mother-in-law to host, for friends to co-host and share costs, or for the parents to host their own, especially for a mixed group or a couple's shower. Whoever hosts usually pays, so agree the budget first.
How long does a baby shower last?
Two to three hours is normal: about 30 minutes of arrivals and food, two or three games, gift opening, then cake. A weekend early afternoon suits most guests, and the mum-to-be.
Families who wait until after the birth
In many families and cultures it's considered bad luck to celebrate or buy for a baby before it's born. Then the party happens a few weeks after the birth, so guests can meet the baby. A registry still helps: it can go live after the birth, and relatives abroad can send gifts that are actually needed.
Next steps: pick a theme and decorations, then two or three baby shower games.
Frequently asked questions
How many weeks pregnant should you be for a baby shower?
Usually 28 to 34 weeks. For twins, 24 to 30 weeks, because twins often come early.
When should baby shower invitations go out?
Four to six weeks before the shower. Allow six weeks in December or school holidays.
Can you have a baby shower after the baby is born?
Yes. Some families prefer to wait, and hold the party a few weeks after the birth so guests can meet the baby. It is sometimes called a sip and see.
Who usually hosts a baby shower?
Traditionally a close friend or relative, but today mothers, co-hosting friends or the parents-to-be themselves often host. Whoever hosts usually pays.