25 Baby Shower Decorations Ideas: Costs, Etiquette & Inspo

Searching for baby shower decorations ideas? Here’s all the inspiration you need to create a beautiful party any mama-to-be will love. If you’re celebrating an awesome mama-to-be and planning an amazing baby shower, one of the first steps is deciding on a theme.

Baby showers are super adorable events to plan and decorate, but there are also a lot of décor elements to choose from.

The possibilities for baby shower decorations are as fun and varied as the mamas and babies they honor… So how to narrow it down?

Well don’t worry, we’ve got you.

To create that picture-perfect party, here are some of our favorite ideas for baby shower decorations.

We’ll also look at budgeting, who’s paying, and some baby shower dos and don’ts, so you can party plan with confidence.

In this article 📝

How much does the average baby shower cost?

According to our expecting mamas on Peanut, their parties ranged anywhere from $75 to $800.

This can easily reach $1,000 or more though — especially if you’re planning a large get-together.

But, and this is important… there’s no set rule for how much you should spend on a baby shower.

It’s completely up to you.

How much your baby shower costs depends on how many people you invite, your [venue (which could be virtual!), food, and things like party favors, prizes and of course… what baby shower decorations you go for.

Who pays for a baby shower?

For better or worse, there’s lots of tradition and etiquette associated with baby showers.

But for modern mamas and their gang… you decide how to celebrate.

This also applies to who pays.

Traditionally, the person “hosting” the baby shower pays.

This would normally be someone outside of the immediate family, like a close friend, cousin, or aunt.

But these days, it’s common for pregnant mamas to host their own events, friendship groups to split costs, or even coworkers, partners, and parents to host events.

Splitting the bill does help avoid money worries.

It also encourages more people to feel involved with the planning and baby shower decorations — a win, win.

What should you not do at a baby shower?

Baby showers should always be joyous occasions.

The mama-to-be should leave feeling happy, supported, and absolutely showered by love from her closest friends and family.

So, let’s quickly talk about pitfalls to avoid…

• Don’t ignore the mama: Now, there’s a chance your vision of storks, bows, and baby blues might not be the expectant mom’s thing. Whether it’s baby shower table decorations, menus, games, or guestlists… avoid unwelcome surprises and chat to her first.
• Don’t overcomplicate: Whether it's long, complex party games or massively expensive baby shower decorations — some things are best kept simple, short and classy. On this note, making your own balloon garlands is a great way to save money and make the room look fab. There are loads of online guides showing how to make balloons decorations for baby showers. We promise, it’s not that fiddly!
• Don’t exclude anyone: A baby shower guest list should be all about who the mama wants to be there. If this includes male partners, young children and teenagers — this is all absolutely fine! In fact, many people prefer having a baby shower with both sexes, so it feels more party-y and less cutesy.
• Don’t push boundaries: Some “traditional” baby shower games (like “measure the belly” or“pin the sperm on the egg”) can make mamas-to-be feel awkward. Of course, some people love games like this though! So just have a quick chat first.

What decorations do you need for a baby shower?

Whether it’s baby shower decorations for boys or girls… it’s all about creating a beautiful environment your guests and expectant mamas will love.

So, where to begin? Here are a few ideas for your checklist.

25 ideas for baby shower decorations

1. Balloons: whether its large arches, fun animal shapes or simple balloons tied to chairs, the choice, styles and colors are up to you.
2. Banners: often cheaper than bespoke fabric bunting, a striking way to personalize your party décor.
3. Buffets: food can be a decoration in itself. Consider snacks that look pretty in mason jars and bowls. Candy buffet anyone?
4. Bunting: a cute way to bring color and softness to your theme.
5. Cake towers: personalized cake pops or cookies are super-delicious and eye-catching.
6. Candles: naked flames don’t mix terribly well with hanging decorations. Could you try battery-powered alternatives?
7. Classic colors: remember baby shower decorations for girls don’t have to be exclusively pink and sparkly. Of course, boys don’t have to be just blue either. But if your mama would love this. Go for it!
8. Confetti: whether golden stars or rainbow colors, it’s a quick way to pump-up the party vibes.
9. Diaper cakes: a fun centerpiece with a real “wow” factor, that ensures mom’s stocked-up for those first few months.
10. DIY clouds: get creative with tissue paper or cardboard. Why not add some extra birds and butterflies flying-on by?
11. Fairy lights: soft lights with touches of gold and silver are a gentle way to create a warm, welcoming environment.
12. Flowers: whether real or paper, flowers are an essential part of bay shower decorations. Ask your mama what her favorite blooms are…
13. Flower necklaces and crowns: great for boho-chic baby showers.
14. Invitations: set the tone early and send invitations matching your décor on the day.
15. Modern mobiles: there are lots of templates for DIY mobiles you can “float” above the table.
16. Napkins: fun, cheap (and practical!) additions to baby shower table decorations.
17. Paper lanterns: beautiful, cost-effective decorations, adaptable to your color scheme.
18. Plates: your tableware is an important part of the decorations, so think how your plates, cutlery and glasses add to your theme.
19. Pom-Poms: tissue paper pom-poms are baby shower classics. Go for varied sizes and colors for a fun effect.
20. Pumpkins: celebrating a fall baby? Combine with rustic hessian and earthy tones.
21. Ribbons: tied from chairs or hanging off walls and ceilings for stylish, sculptural effects.
22. Table runners: for large, long tables, table runners are elegant options.
23. Tablecloths: do you want to make a statement or keep it neutral?
24. Welcome boards: DIY chalkboards and artists’ easels are creative options for welcoming guests.
25. Wreaths and centerpieces: go as simple or extravagant as you like. Natural flowers or neon lights… you decide! If you need a little insp, check out our guide to baby shower table decorations
    With these ideas for baby shower decorations, we hope you’ve got all the inspiration you need to create a magical day any mama-to-be would love.

Have fun and happy decorating!

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