Nesting Parties vs. Baby Showers: Which Celebration is Right for You?

Expecting a baby is one of life’s most exciting adventures, and what better way to celebrate than with a fabulous gathering? Traditionally, baby showers have been the go-to bash, but lately, nesting parties have been making waves as a fun and practical alternative. So, which one is right for you? Let’s dive into the delightful world of baby celebrations and find out!

What is a Baby Shower?

Picture this: A beautifully decorated venue, a table piled high with adorable baby gifts, and a group of loved ones playing games while showering you with love (and diapers!). That’s a baby shower in a nutshell! These festive gatherings typically include:

• A guest list full of friends, family, and maybe even coworkers.
• Gifts galore—think onesies, strollers, and everything in between.
• Fun games like "Guess the Baby Food" and "Diaper Derby."
• A chance to celebrate and feel all the love before baby arrives.

Baby showers are perfect for parents who love a lively party and enjoy the tradition of receiving thoughtful gifts for their little bundle of joy.

What is a Nesting Party?

Now, imagine this: Your besties come over, roll up their sleeves, and help you get everything ready for baby. No gift wrap, no guessing games—just pure, practical magic! A nesting party is all about getting things done while enjoying time with your closest circle. These cozy gatherings often include:

• Organizing the nursery and assembling baby furniture (because cribs don’t build themselves!).
• Prepping meals to stock the freezer for those sleepless newborn nights.
• Decluttering and deep cleaning to create a serene baby-ready space.
• A relaxed vibe with plenty of laughs, love, and maybe some snacks.

Nesting parties are perfect for parents who value acts of service and want to feel super prepared when their little one makes their grand entrance. It can also be a great opportunity to discuss with your village what kind of support you may want or need after baby arrives. 

Baby Shower vs. Nesting Party: Key Differences

Which One Should You Choose?

Still on the fence? Here’s a quick guide to help:

• If you love a party, cute decorations, and being showered with gifts, go for a baby shower!
• If you’d rather tackle your baby prep list with your favorite people helping out, a nesting party is your jam!
• Why not both? Some parents opt for a baby shower early on and a nesting party closer to their due date—double the fun!

Making the Most of Your Celebration

No matter which event you choose, here are some pro tips to make it amazing:

• For a baby shower: Register for essentials and let a friend or family member handle the planning.
• For a nesting party: Have a to-do list ready so guests can jump right in. You can definitely task a friend or family member with helping to build the list. 
• For either event: Keep it stress-free and focus on soaking up the love and support!

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Both baby showers and nesting parties bring their own unique kind of joy. Whether you’re in it for the gifts and games or the hands-on help, what matters most is surrounding yourself with people who love and support you. No matter what, your little one is already incredibly lucky to have such a wonderful village waiting for them!

If you’re new to the Nesting Party concept check out this article on Rent.com called What is a Nesting Party? How to Host and How to Show Up featuring thoughts from our team at Partum Health as well as other experts. 

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