Published on 24 May 2024

How to Plan the Best Baby Shower in London?

Planning a baby shower is a fun way to welcome a new baby! It's a joyful party where friends and family come together to support the mum-to-be. At Cakes & Bakes®, we know how to make your baby shower in London unforgettable. Here’s an easy guide to help you plan the perfect celebration.

What is a Baby Shower?

A baby shower is a party traditionally held to honour the expectant mother and celebrate the upcoming birth of her baby. It’s an occasion where loved ones gather to share their excitement, offer support, and gift the mother-to-be with essentials for her new arrival. Baby showers are filled with fun activities, delicious food, and heartwarming moments.

Baby Shower Customs to be Considered

In the UK, baby showers have become very popular, borrowing ideas from different cultures. Here are some traditions you might consider:

  • Gift Giving: Guests bring gifts for the baby and the mum like clothes, toys, nappies, and bottles.
  • Games and Activities: Fun games like "Guess the Baby Food" or "Nappy Changing Races" make the shower playful.
  • Wishing Tree: Guests write their wishes and advice for the mum-to-be and hang them on a tree, making a lovely keepsake.

Baby Shower Themes

Choosing a theme can make your baby shower more fun and stylish. Here are some popular themes to consider:

  • Classic Blue or Pink: Use traditional blue for boys or pink for girls. This theme is simple and always a hit.
  • Neutral Colours: Go for elegant and neutral colours like white, grey, or yellow. This is perfect if you don't know the baby's gender.
  • Storybook Theme: Decorate with elements from favourite children's books like "Winnie the Pooh" or "Peter Rabbit." It's charming and nostalgic.
  • Nature Theme: Use flowers, plants, and animals to create a peaceful natural setting. Think of woodland creatures or a garden party.
  • Vintage Tea Party: Set up a classy tea party with vintage teacups, lace tablecloths, and finger sandwiches. It's a sophisticated and charming theme.

More Theme Ideas

  • Safari Adventure: Decorate with jungle animals and greenery for an adventurous feel.
  • Under the Sea: Use blue tones, fish, and mermaids for a magical underwater experience.
  • Hollywood Glam: Roll out the red carpet and use gold and black decorations for a star-studded event.
  • Sports Theme: Perfect for sports enthusiasts with decorations featuring footballs, basketballs, or any favourite sport.
  • Rainbow Theme: Bright and colourful, this theme uses all the colours of the rainbow to create a cheerful atmosphere.
  • Fairy Tale: Think castles, princesses, and magical creatures for a whimsical party.
  • Travel Theme: Use maps, globes, and suitcases to celebrate the journey of parenthood.

These themes can guide your decorations, invitations, cakes, and activities, making your baby shower unique and memorable.

Baby Shower Activities

Activities keep guests entertained and make the shower more memorable. Some ideas include:

  • Opening Gifts: The mum-to-be opens presents in front of everyone, sharing the excitement.
  • Story Sharing: Guests share funny or touching stories about motherhood and babies.
  • Memory Jar: Guests write down their favourite memories with the mum-to-be or their predictions for the baby’s future.
  • Baby Name Suggestions: Guests suggest baby names and explain why they chose them, which can be fun and helpful.
  • Craft Stations: Set up areas where guests can decorate onesies or bibs for the baby.
  • Photo Booth: Create a photo booth with cute props for guests to take memorable pictures.
  • Diaper Raffle: Guests bring a pack of nappies for a chance to win a prize, helping the parents stock up.
  • Advice Cards: Provide cards for guests to write their best parenting tips and advice for the new mum.
  • Memory Jar: Guests write down their favourite memories with the mum-to-be, creating a jar of sweet memories.
  • Guess the Due Date: Guests guess the baby’s due date and weight with a small prize for the closest guess.
  • Baby Book Signing: Have a baby book where guests can write messages or draw pictures for the baby to look at when they’re older.
  • Belly Painting: Hire a professional or have a friend paint the mom-to-be’s belly with beautiful designs.
  • Food and Dessert Table: Decorate a table with themed snacks and desserts that match the baby shower theme.

Baby Shower Food

The food is a highlight of any baby shower. Consider a menu that includes:

  • Finger Foods: Easy-to-eat options like sandwiches, mini quiches, and fruit platters.
  • Sweet Treats: Biscuits, cupcakes, and scones are always a hit.
  • Refreshing Drinks: Non-alcoholic beverages like mocktails, sparkling water, and juices.

Baby Shower Cakes Fit For Any Theme Or Colour Scheme

At Cakes & Bakes® we offer a wide range of custom cakes that can be tailored to fit any theme or colour scheme. Whether you want a classic blue or pink cake, a gender-neutral design, or a cake that matches your unique theme, we’ve got you covered. Our cakes are not only visually stunning but also delicious, ensuring your guests are impressed.

Baby Shower Decorations

Decorations set the mood for your baby shower. Some ideas include:

  • Balloons and Banners: Customised with the baby’s name or themed colours.
  • Floral Arrangements: Fresh flowers add a touch of elegance.
  • Table Centrepieces: Coordinated with your theme such as toy blocks or baby bottles filled with candy.
  • Backdrop: A beautiful backdrop for photos matching the shower’s theme.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When is the best time to hold a baby shower?

A: Baby showers are typically held four to six weeks before the baby’s due date.

Q: Who should host the baby shower?

A: Traditionally, a close friend or family member hosts the shower to avoid the appearance of the family asking for gifts.

Q: How long should a baby shower last?

A: Most baby showers last between two to three hours, allowing enough time for games, food, and socialising.

Q: Should the father be invited?

A: It’s entirely up to the mother-to-be. Co-ed showers are becoming more popular, so feel free to include the father and other male guests if desired.

Conclusion

Planning the best baby shower in London requires attention to detail, creativity, and a touch of personalisation. At Cakes & Bakes®, we’re here to help you every step of the way, from crafting the perfect cake to providing delicious treats and decorations that will leave a lasting impression. Celebrate this joyous occasion with style and grace, and make it an unforgettable day for the mother-to-be and her loved ones.