How to Throw a Baby Shower in Australia: A Practical Guide for First-Time Hosts

Celebrate a little one on the way with a baby shower that’s thoughtful, fun and easy to plan. Whether you’re hosting a cosy catch-up or a bigger bash, this guide covers themes, dates, decorations, food and games so the day runs smoothly and feels special.

Choosing the Right Date and Budget

One of the first things to sort is when to hold the baby shower. In Australia, baby showers typically happen about 6 to 8 weeks before the baby’s due date. This timing means the mum-to-be is usually still feeling comfortable enough to enjoy the celebration without getting too tired or uncomfortable in the late stages of pregnancy. It’s a good idea to check with her or someone close to her to pick the best date, especially if it’s a surprise.

Setting a budget early on is just as important. Baby showers can be as simple or as fancy as you like, but knowing how much you want to spend helps narrow down choices for venue, food, and decorations. You might have a cosy backyard BBQ with homemade treats or go for a catered event at a café or community hall. Whatever your budget, there are plenty of ways to create a lovely atmosphere without breaking the bank.

Making the Guest List and Choosing a Venue

The guest list usually includes close family, friends, and sometimes workmates. It’s worth asking the mum-to-be if there’s anyone special she’d like to include or keep private. If you’re planning a co-ed shower or a casual get-together, you might invite partners and children too.

Once you have an idea of numbers, the venue choice becomes easier. Many Aussie baby showers take place at someone’s home or backyard, which gives a relaxed vibe and plenty of flexibility. Outdoor spaces like parks are also popular, especially in the warmer months, offering fresh air and space for kids to play. If you prefer an indoor venue, look into local community halls, cafés with private rooms, or hire a function space. When choosing, consider how much setup you want to do yourself, whether the venue has facilities like a kitchen or toilets, and if it suits the guest list size comfortably.

Picking a Theme to Tie it All Together

A theme isn’t essential, but it definitely makes planning easier and adds a lovely touch to the day. Many Aussie showers draw inspiration from nature and local culture. For example, a ‘native Australian animals’ theme featuring koalas, kangaroos, and wombats can be charming and unique. Alternatively, you might go for a soft, boho style with pampas grass, neutral tones, and hand-crafted decorations, which are very trendy right now. Some hosts prefer classic pastel pink or blue themes for girls or boys, while others choose gender-neutral options like nautical stripes, woodland creatures, or sunshine and clouds.

Whatever theme you pick, it can guide your choices for invitations, decorations, tableware, and even the cake design.

Invitations: Sending the Word Out

Once your date, venue, and theme are locked in, it’s time to invite guests. You can opt for printed invitations if you want something traditional and keepsake-worthy, or go digital for ease and environmental friendliness. Sending invites about 4 to 6 weeks ahead gives people plenty of time to RSVP and plan their gift shopping. Be sure to include all the essentials: date, time, venue, RSVP details, and any notes on gift registries or dress codes if relevant.

Decorating for a Warm and Welcoming Space

Decorations don’t have to be over the top to look stunning. Balloon garlands or arches are a popular and visually impactful choice, instantly making the space feel festive. If your theme suits it, fresh flowers, bunting, and table centrepieces can add elegance or whimsy. For an outdoor event, consider shade options like umbrellas or marquees and soft blankets or cushions for seating.

A cute ‘mum-to-be’ chair with a sash or floral crown is a nice touch to make the guest of honour feel special. Don’t forget a photo backdrop or designated photo corner with props — these create great memories and add to the fun.

You can source decorations from Aussie party supply stores, online shops, or even DIY some elements to add a personal feel.

Food and Drink: Feeding Your Guests

Food at baby showers is often finger foods and grazing platters that guests can enjoy at their leisure. Mini sandwiches, quiches, sausage rolls, cheese boards, fresh fruit, and sweet treats like cupcakes or macarons are all favourites. If your budget allows, a themed cake — maybe decorated with baby booties or animal figures matching your theme — can be a real highlight.

Don’t forget drinks! Offer a range of non-alcoholic beverages like fruit punches, mocktails, herbal teas, and sparkling water so everyone feels included, especially the mum-to-be. Setting up a self-serve drinks station adds to the relaxed vibe and keeps things simple.

Games and Activities to Keep Everyone Smiling

Including a few fun games is a great way to get guests chatting and laughing. Classic baby shower games like baby bingo, where guests tick off gifts as they’re opened, or guessing the baby food blindfolded, are always crowd-pleasers. Other options include the nappy changing race using dolls, baby name brainstorm challenges, or ‘don’t say baby’ word bans.

If your group prefers something low-key, consider a creative activity like decorating onesies or writing notes of advice and wishes for the baby. These become lovely keepsakes for the parents.

Setting Up the Gift Area and Registry

Create a special spot for guests to leave gifts as they arrive. Decorating this table to match your theme makes it feel like a focal point. If the parents have a baby registry, be sure to share this info on the invitation or a small sign at the event. Registries help guests pick something practical and make gift-giving easier.

Popular registry options in Australia include stores like Baby Bunting, The Memo, and Amazon Australia. If there’s no registry, guests often bring books, clothes, or personalised gifts.

Adding Personal Touches and Keepsakes

Little extras go a long way. Providing a guestbook where friends and family can write messages or advice creates a treasured memento. Setting up a Polaroid camera or photo booth corner also helps capture candid moments throughout the day. Some hosts ask guests to bring a book instead of a card, which creates a special baby library to grow over time.

You can also organise simple thank-you gifts for guests, such as small candles, succulents, or homemade treats, to show appreciation for their support and company.

Final Words of Wisdom

Remember, the heart of a baby shower is the celebration of new life and the community that surrounds it. The day doesn’t have to be perfect — it just needs to be warm, welcoming, and filled with laughter and good company. If you get stuck, don’t hesitate to ask for help, keep a checklist, and remember to enjoy the process as much as the event itself.

With thoughtful planning and a bit of Aussie flair, your baby shower will be a treasured occasion everyone remembers fondly for years to come.