Baby Shower Checklist: Everything You Need

There's a bundle on the way! Aside from making your newborn checklist, you or a loved one may be planning a big party ahead of baby's arrival. Whether you’re planning your own baby shower or planning one for someone you love, here's what we think you should have on your baby shower checklist.

Make sure the new parents are registered for a free Amazon baby registry so well-wishers can easily send them the necessary gear—even if it's a Zoom baby shower. Signing up grants caregivers a giant free baby welcome box from Amazon. Here's how to access loads of other free stuff from Amazon while you're at it.

Baby Shower Decorations

• Baby boxes: Be direct with these simple BABY boxes—they make it easy to stick to a crisp baby shower theme
• Welcome baby banner: Before they’re born, your baby will get the royal treatment with this chic welcome sign
• Statement balloons: Nothing says “Oh, baby!” like a set of luxe gold balloons
• Tassel garland: This easy-to-arrange tassel garland elevates your baby shower decor—whether it’s indoors or outdoors
• Waterproof tablecloth: Grab a colorful tablecloth to prevent any mess or spills, or stick to a solid white, beige or black color theme to keep things neutral and crisp
• Eco-friendly plates and utensils: Save the planet and time cleaning dishes with compostable alternatives for plates and cutlery. Buy at least 25% more plates than people on your guest list—people are bound to go for seconds and need new plates.
• Candles: Turn up the party vibes with colorful swirl candles, or use your party favors as table decor—we love these baby shower candle tins
• Napkins: For said messes and spills, these adorable scalloped napkins are perfect

Baby Shower Games

• Bear bingo: All hands on deck for this bear-themed game
• Decorate a bib or bodysuit: Get the creative juices flowing! A few of these decorated bibs and bodysuits may make it into the baby’s new wardrobe
• Measure the baby bump: Keep the day lighthearted. Let loved ones guess your baby bump size with these recyclable measuring tapes.
• Baby prediction and advice cards: Guests, leave your best guesses and words of advice on these prediction/advice cards!
• Baby bump balloon pop: This simple game—which only requires balloons—is sure to cause laughter

Baby Shower Favors

• Impactful reading: This gorgeous guestbook allows friends and family to leave well wishes, thoughts, memories and funny stories in one cleverly collected place
• Plantable wildflower: These no-fuss plantable flowers will make your guests plant parents and a green thumb in no time. We love these as holiday season stocking stuffers for kids, too.
• It’s a baby chapstick: C’mon, does it get any cuter than a baby-themed lip balm? This is one baby shower checklist item you know your guests will actually use well after the big day. We love these baby shower gift ideas as practical take-homes.
• Baby-themed pen: Talk about practicality—with this smooth ballpoint pen, you’ll bring it everywhere
• Seamless hair ties: You might even bring out these hair ties during the baby shower
• Bear-shaped candle: Wind down with the sweet smells coming from a freshly lit bear candle.
• Bottle opener keychain: While the future momma can’t pop a bottle, who says guests can’t? Do it with this fun bottle-shaped souvenir

Baby Shower Outfits

• Babydoll dress: Confidently match the theme with this breathable and flowy dress from Gap
• Fit and flare dress: With this muted orange dress from Old Navy, you will feel your most chic
• Linen jumpsuit: Go with the flow on such a busy day, thanks to this breezy linen jumpsuit. If it's a casual affair, you'll feel extra comfortable and make the most of this look pre-and-post-baby.
• Comfortable running shoes: Designed for consistent comfort, a pair of arch-supporting sneakers from Tretorn is ideal
• Ballet flats: If you find yourself on your feet, but want to look chic these ballet flats are ultra-comfy. These are ideal for the mom-to-be or anyone hosting the shower—planning a party requires being on your feet more than usual.

Baby Shower Food

• Bun in oven sliders: A cuter version of traditional sliders, make a quicky kitschy sign and voilà! We didn’t forget about vegetarian guests—these meatless recipes are total wins. Be sure to choose something the guest of honor loves to eat—start with cravings!
• Cucumber sandwiches: Simple and tasty, easy veggie sandwich please everyone
• Fruit and vegetable platters: You truly can’t go wrong with an array of fresh, healthy snacks
• Cake: Any celebration is an excuse for sweets—let them eat cake! We love cleverly-themed baby shower cakes. These are brilliant photo opportunities and conversation starters, so get creative!
• Non-alcoholic drinks: We love this citrusy drink for a kick (sans baby). You can even add a fun, sparkling alcohol-free wine to the drink menu