Planning a baby shower can feel like a big task. You've got invitations to order, cupcakes to decorate, and games to plan. Doing all that on a shoestring budget is even more daunting.
The good news is that, with some creativity and thoughtful planning, it's totally possible to throw a beautiful and memorable celebration to honor the mom-to-be - without breaking the bank.
Whether you're a close friend, an aunt, a mom, or even a coworker gearing up for this special event, these budget-friendly tips are sure to help.
Tips for Planning a Baby Shower on a Budget
While baby showers can often come with a hefty price tag, a bit of thoughtful planning (and a dollop of creativity) can go a long way. Create a memorable celebration without going overboard (or going broke). Here are some tips.
1. Host it at Home
Original Cost: Renting a venue can cost anywhere from $500 to $2,500, depending on the location and size.
Low-Cost Swap: Hosting at home costs $0.
There's no place like home - both for Dorothy in the Wizard of Oz, and also when it comes to hosting a baby shower. Not only does it save on rental fees, but it also adds a cozy, personal atmosphere that can't be replicated in a hired venue. It also eliminates some stress - you know exactly what to expect on the day of the baby shower and you don't have to rely on anyone else for set-up.
If your living space is too small, consider asking a close friend or family member if you can use their home to host. Ultimately, this intimate setting will allow for a more heartfelt gathering, where every detail can reflect the personal touch of the host and the parents-to-be.
2. Pare Down the Guest List
Original Cost: Catering for a large group can range from $15 to $50 per person.
Low-Cost Swap: Focusing on an intimate guest list could bring this down to $150-$500 overall.
An intimate guest list is key to keeping your baby shower personal and budget-friendly. Focus on inviting the people who mean the most to the expectant parents, such as close family and friends.
This reduces costs across the board and creates an environment filled with love and personal connections. A smaller group also fosters a warmer, more communal atmosphere, where guests can interact more meaningfully with one another and the guest of honor.
3. Simplify the Decor
Original Cost: Professional decorations can cost $200 to $1,000.
Low-Cost Swap: DIY decorations using items you already have can cost as little as $20-$50.
You don’t need expensive decorations to create a festive environment. Use balloons, streamers, and even items you already have to bring life to the celebration. Choosing a simple color scheme or theme can inspire creative décor ideas.
Using things like baby books, stuffed animals, or even baby clothes as decorations not only saves money but also adds a touch of whimsy and charm to the décor. Get creative and think outside the box - the results can be both beautiful and cost-effective.
4. Opt for Digital Invites
Original Cost: Printed invitations and postage can cost $50 to $200.
Low-Cost Swap: Digital invitations can be free to $10, depending on customization.
In today’s digital age, there’s no need for paper invitations. Digital invites are not only a savvy way to save on printing and postage, but they also offer a convenient and eco-friendly option for your guests. There are many free online platforms where you can customize stunning invitation templates.
Plus, digital invitations simplify the RSVP process, making it easier to manage your guest list and communicate any updates about the event.
5. DIY Anything You Can
Original Cost: Store-bought or professional favors and decorations can add up to $150-$500.
Low-Cost Swap: DIY projects can be as low as $50, depending on materials.
Taking a DIY approach to the party favors, centerpieces, and even the games adds a unique, personal touch that can’t be bought.
From handcrafted decorations to homemade treats, these elements show your guests the love and effort you’ve put into making the day special. Engage your friends and family in crafting sessions to help with the preparations - it’s a great way to bond and get everyone involved in the festivities.
And if you're worried about asking for help, don't be. Baby showers tend to be family affairs where everybody wants to be involved and help out in any way they can.
6. Consider the Timing
Original Cost: Serving a full meal can range from $15 to $30 per person.
Low-Cost Swap: Offering snacks and drinks can reduce costs to $5-$10 per person.
Scheduling your baby shower as a midmorning, late afternoon, or early evening event can significantly reduce food costs. Instead of serving a full meal, you can offer a selection of appetizers, snacks, and perhaps some sweet treats. Even better if you can plan a late morning shower where coffee and pastries are served instead of a full meal!
This not only saves money but also encourages guests to mingle and move around the party, creating a relaxed and social atmosphere.
7. Make a DIY Bar
Original Cost: Professional catering for a food station can cost $300 to $1,000.
Low-Cost Swap: DIY food stations can be set up for $50-$150.
Interactive food stations, such as a DIY taco bar, doughnut bar, or even a build-your-own mocktail station, are not only economical but also cater to a wide range of tastes and dietary preferences. These self-serve bars encourage guests to customize their refreshments, adding an engaging and personalized element to the celebration.
Plus, they serve as excellent conversation starters and can really make your party stand out.
8. Take Advantage of Printables
Original Cost: Professionally designed decorations and games can cost $50 to $200.
Low-Cost Swap: Free online printables can cost $0 to $10 for printing.
The internet offers an abundance of free printable decorations, games, and invitations that can enhance your baby shower theme.
From elegant banners to interactive shower games, you can find resources online to adorn your event beautifully without spending a dime. These printables are easy to customize, allowing you to add a personal touch to every aspect of your celebration.
9. Make it a Hybrid Affair
Original Cost: Expanding the guest list can increase costs significantly.
Low-Cost Swap: Hosting a hybrid event can keep costs low while including more people.
For family and friends who can’t attend in person, consider hosting a hybrid baby shower. Integrating a digital component through live streaming allows distant loved ones to participate in the festivities, broadening the circle of celebration. It’s a thoughtful way to include everyone in the joyous occasion, ensuring nobody misses out on the special moments.
Not only that, but it allows you to cut down on the guest list without actually cutting down on the guest list - you can still have everybody there who wants and needs to be there, but they won't be contributing to the overall cost.
10. Choose Gifts That Don't Cost a Lot - but Make a Big Impact
Original Cost: Expensive gifts can range from $50 to $500 or more.
Low-Cost Swap: Meaningful, heartfelt gifts can cost $10 to $50.
When it comes to gifts, it's the thought that truly counts. Encourage guests to consider heartfelt, meaningful gifts over more expensive items.
Handmade presents, family heirlooms, or books with personal messages can be much more significant and cherished by the parents-to-be. These thoughtful gestures are not only cost-effective but also add a layer of personal connection and sentiment to the celebration.
If you're struggling to figure out a gift yourself, why not consider EarlyBird? With EarlyBird, you can give a gift that lasts a lifetime - in more ways than one. EarlyBird offers a digital time capsule that allows parents and other family members and friends to share memories of the baby in a digital baby book.
The EarlyBird app also allows for financial investment, allowing you to set the new baby up for success in just a few clicks.
11. Snag Coupons and Special Deals
Original Cost: $200 - $400 for decorations, food, and party favors
Low-Cost Swap: $120 - $250
Keeping an eye out for coupons, sales, and special deals can make a big difference in your budget.
Whether it’s for decorations, food, or party favors, discounts can help stretch your dollar further. Many stores and online vendors offer special promotions, especially for bulk purchases, which can be particularly beneficial if you plan ahead.
12. Don't Spring for a Caterer
Original Cost: $500 - $1,000
Low-Cost Swap: $100 - $300
While catering might seem like the most convenient option, preparing food at home or organizing a potluck can save a considerable amount of money.
Homemade meals add a warm, personal touch to the celebration, and asking guests to contribute a dish creates a diverse and delicious spread. This communal aspect not only reduces costs but also encourages everyone to share a part of themselves through their culinary creations.
Pro tip? Encourage your guests to bring a dish to share, then to write the recipe down for the new parents to be (or bring a freezer-friendly version that they can stash away for those sleepless nights after the baby has arrived).
13. Take it Outside
Original Cost: $200 - $600
Low-Cost Swap: $0 - $50 (permit or reservation fee)
If weather permits, consider hosting the baby shower outdoors. Parks and community gardens provide a beautiful, natural setting for your celebration, often at little to no cost.
An outdoor venue offers ample space for decorations and games, plus the beauty of nature as your backdrop. Remember to check the requirements for permits or reservations to ensure a smooth event.
14. Choose a Simple, Low-Cost Theme
Original Cost: $150 - $300 for decorations and supplies
Low-Cost Swap: $50 - $100
A simple theme can be just as memorable and beautiful as an elaborate one. Choose a theme that can be easily matched with DIY or budget-friendly decorations.
Whether it’s a color scheme, a children’s book, or a nature-inspired theme, simplicity allows for creativity and personalization, making the event special without the need for extravagant expenses.
15. Ask for Help
Original Cost: $100 - $300 for professional services
Low-Cost Swap: $0 - $50 (for extra supplies)
Whether it’s for decorating, food preparation, or organizing activities, people are often happy to contribute their time and talents to make the day extra special, as we mentioned earlier.
This collaborative approach not only lightens the workload but also brings everyone closer together in celebration of this joyful occasion.
The Takeaway
With thoughtful planning and a touch of creativity, it’s entirely possible to host a beautiful and joy-filled baby shower on a budget.
And if you're still looking for ways to contribute to the new baby's future, be sure to consider the EarlyBird app. One small gift now can blossom into a huge blessing later on in the baby's life.
Remember, the most cherished gift is your presence and sincere well wishes for the family’s newest addition. Here’s to a successful and heartfelt celebration!
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