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How to Plan a Baby Shower on a Budget

Practical ways to host a lovely baby shower without overspending, from choosing a venue and cutting guest numbers to DIY decorations and simple food.

Before you use this guide: This is general educational information, not an individual medical assessment. We do not identify a clinician reviewer on this page, so please confirm personal health decisions with your doctor, midwife or paediatrician.

A baby shower does not need to cost a lot to be memorable. People remember warmth, good food and the feeling of being cared for far more than expensive decorations. These ideas keep the cost down without making the day feel thin.

Set a number first

Decide on a total before you start, and write down what you will spend on each part. As a rough guide, food and drink often take about 40 to 50 per cent of a party budget, a venue (if you pay for one) 20 to 30 per cent, decorations 10 to 15 per cent, and invitations, activities and prizes the rest. If you host at home, your venue money can go towards food.

Cut costs where it hurts least

• Keep the guest list small. Every extra guest adds food, drink and a seat.
• Host at home, in a garden, in a park or in a community hall rather than hiring a restaurant room.
• Choose a time that is not a mealtime, such as mid-afternoon, so that you only need tea, cake and light bites.
• Hold the party on a weekday evening, or at a time when cheaper hall hire is available.

Food that goes a long way

• Make a brunch or afternoon tea with simple, home-baked items.
• Ask friends to each bring a dish, with ingredients labelled for the mum-to-be.
• Serve one signature cake, or cupcakes made at home.
• Offer a jug of squash, juice or lemonade rather than a bar.
• Buy in bulk, and look for supermarket party platters.

DIY decorations

• Use a few balloons in your colour scheme, a paper garland or printed bunting.
• Use fresh or supermarket flowers in jars, which also double as table decorations.
• Print a free sign or make one with a chalkboard.
• Ask a friend to lend tablecloths, jars, cake stands or bowls.
• Reuse items for the nursery, such as soft toys and books as part of the display.

Cheap, fun activities

• Advice cards and wishes cost only paper and pens.
• Games such as Don't Say Baby, trivia and charades need almost no supplies.
• Choose prizes such as a candle, a plant or a bar of chocolate.
• Ask guests to bring a baby photo for a guess-who game.

Invitations and favours

• Send digital invitations by email or message.
• Skip party favours, or give a small treat such as a packet of seeds or a homemade biscuit.
• Write a thank-you note rather than buying printed cards.

Reduce the cost of gifts for the parents

A shower is also a chance to help parents on a budget. Host a nappy (diaper) shower, a book shower or a pre-loved baby clothes swap. Invite guests to chip in for one big item together. Buying secondhand is fine for most baby clothes and toys, but check the safety guidance for items like car seats and cots.

Don't forget to enjoy it

It is easy to get caught up in details, but guests mostly remember how the day felt. A calm host and a comfortable guest of honour matter more than the perfect balloon arch.

This content is for general information only and is not medical advice. Every pregnancy and every baby is different. Always talk to your doctor, midwife or paediatrician about your own situation, and seek urgent care if you are worried.