The Baby Shower Checklist
To host a baby shower you need invitations sent about 3-4 weeks out, a soft decor scene (a balloon arch or coordinated decoration kit plus a sash banner), a dressed gift-and-dessert table, a photo backdrop, games and advice cards to break the ice, tableware for your guest list, light food and drinks, and a small favor for each guest. The grouped checklist below covers each piece with quantities, and the shoppable kit maps every item to a product.
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Each item maps to a product in our catalog. When a current in-stock retailer price is available, we show it; otherwise use the product page to compare links.
Neutral Baby Shower Balloon Arch Kit
$30.50 at Walmart
Buy at WalmartBaby Shower Sash and Banner Kit
$19.99 at Party City
Buy at Party CityBaby Shower Photo Backdrop (7 x 5 ft)
$25.50 at Walmart
Buy at WalmartBaby Shower Tableware Set (16 guests)
$26.99 at Party City
Buy at Party CityGlass Beverage Dispenser Set (2 pack)
$54.99 at Target
Buy at TargetSome links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission on qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you.
Shortcut: shop the Baby Shower Ultimate bundleUltimate
A curated kit that covers most of this checklist in one place.
Reviewed by EventPlanner Editorial · last reviewed July 16, 2026. Quantities and budget bands state their assumptions and are planning aids, not vendor quotes or professional safety advice.
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Frequently asked questions
What do you need for a baby shower?
You need invitations, decor (a balloon arch or decoration kit plus a sash and banner), a dressed gift-and-dessert table with a photo backdrop, tableware sized to your guest list, light food and a non-alcoholic punch, a game or advice-card activity, and a small favor for each guest. The shoppable kit below covers every one of these.
How far in advance do you plan a baby shower?
Start planning 6 to 8 weeks out and send invitations 3 to 4 weeks before the date. Showers are usually held in the last trimester, around weeks 28-32, so the mom-to-be can still attend comfortably.
What games should you play at a baby shower?
Easy crowd-pleasers include guess-the-baby-photo, advice cards for the parents, and a wish-and-prediction card. A 50-guest game and advice card set covers most showers and keeps things moving without much setup.
How much food do you need for a baby shower?
Most showers are afternoon events with light bites rather than a full meal: plan finger foods, a cake or cupcakes, and a non-alcoholic punch. Budget about 5-6 small bites per guest and one beverage dispenser of punch or water per 20 guests.
What are good baby shower favors?
Keep favors small and sweet: mini bottle favors, a wrapped treat, or a tiny succulent. Buy one per guest: the 24-count mini bottle favor set in the kit below suits an average shower, and you can add a second pack for a larger crowd.