Are nesting parties the new baby showers? Plus, how to have one
Clinically reviewed by Dr. Chris Mosunic, PhD, RD, MBA
Discover the world of nesting parties, learn how they differ from baby showers, and get practical tips and creative ideas to make yours special.
Few things in life are as exciting as welcoming a new baby — but it can also be pretty overwhelming. Between prepping for delivery, stocking up on essentials, and setting up a nursery, it can feel like there’s a never ending to-do list. Which is where a nesting party comes in — a modern twist on the traditional baby shower that’s as practical as it is meaningful.
Not everyone feels comfortable with the spotlight that’s on you if you’re the mom or dad to be at a shower. And instead of just gifts and games, a nesting party is about collaboration, connection, and creating a sense of calm for the parents-to-be before the baby arrives.
Whether you’re an expectant parent looking for a new kind of celebration or a friend wanting to support someone you love, a nesting party can be a beautiful way to blend preparation and celebration.
What is a nesting party?
Expectant parents often feel the need to “nest,” or organize, clean, and prepare their home for a new baby. It’s a lot to take on and a nesting party ensures they don’t have to do it alone.
Imagine a cozy gathering where friends and family pitch in to fold onesies, prepare meals, and maybe even assemble a piece of furniture or two. At its core, a nesting party is about turning preparation into a collective effort. Yes, it’s a celebration, but instead of sitting around, guests are rolling up their sleeves to help with essential tasks that might feel overwhelming for two people — one of whom is potentially pregnant.
And while they’re clearly practical, these celebrations are deeply meaningful too. Nesting parties can be big or small, simple or elaborate, focused on one big task, or a bit more scattered. It all depends on what the new parents need. No matter how you celebrate, the goal is the same: to prepare for your baby with the clear support of people who love you.
What’s the difference between a nesting party and a baby shower?
Nesting parties and baby showers are both about celebrating new parents, but they’re very different when put into practice. Think of them as complementary rather than interchangeable — each has its own place in the journey to parenthood. Here’s what sets them apart:
Purpose
Baby shower: Traditionally, guests at a baby shower are focused on celebrating the baby-to-be and pampering the parents with gifts and well-wishes. It’s a festive occasion, with games and decor, and it feels like a party.
Nesting party: A nesting party centers on preparing for the baby’s arrival in a hands-on way. The goal is to tackle practical tasks, provide support, and ease the stress of getting everything ready. It’s less about celebration and more about collaboration, though it’s just as special.
Activities
Baby shower: Guests might play games like guessing the baby’s birthday, name, or weight, along with activities such as diaper-cake making or decorating onesies. A baby shower often includes mingling, gift-opening, and lots of picture-perfect moments.
Nesting party: Instead of games, nesting parties are filled with purposeful activities. Guests might help assemble a crib, organize baby clothes, stock a diaper-changing station, or even prepare meals for those first few weeks postpartum. The focus is on teamwork and making progress.
Gifts
Baby shower: Parents-to-be often create registries, as gift-giving is typically a central feature of a baby shower. Many people open gifts in front of their guests too.
Nesting party: While gifts can be welcomed at a nesting party, they’re not the primary focus. Many nesting parties don’t involve gifts at all, or they might emphasize practical contributions like bringing a freezer meal, offering an hour of babysitting, or pitching in with tasks.
Tone and atmosphere
Baby shower: Baby showers are often celebratory and festive, with a larger guest list that may include extended family, friends, and coworkers. They can be formal or casual, but they’re typically pretty lively.
Nesting party: Nesting parties tend to be more intimate and low-key, with a smaller group of close friends or family. The atmosphere is often relaxed and collaborative, with everyone focused on helping and connecting.
Timing
Baby shower: Baby showers are often held earlier in the pregnancy, around the second or early third trimester, to give parents time to organize gifts and finalize their preparations.
Nesting party: Nesting parties are usually held closer to the due date, when parents are deep into their nesting instincts and need extra help finishing up their preparations.
It’s worth noting that some parents-to-be choose to have both a baby shower and a nesting party. While the baby shower is a chance to celebrate with a big group, the nesting party offers a more intimate and practical way for those closest to them to lend a helping hand.
How to throw a nesting party: 5 tips for a meaningful (and productive) gathering
Planning a nesting party is all about creating a supportive environment for the parents-to-be. It’s less about Pinterest-perfect decor and more about making sure everyone feels comfortable — and is ready to help. Here are five tips to help you throw a nesting party that’s both productive and special.
1. Set clear goals for the guests
Whether you’re the expectant parent, or a helpful friend, start by identifying the tasks that need to be done. Think about what would make life easier and lighten the nesting load. Common tasks include:
Organizing the nursery
Prepping freezer meals for postpartum meals
Washing, folding, and sorting baby clothes
Packing the hospital bag
Assembling baby gear, like the stroller, crib, or car seat
Pro tip for parents-to-be: Share your goals with your guests in advance, so they know what to expect. Providing a list of tasks can help people feel confident and prepared to pitch in. If there are certain elements of your nursery that you want to control (such as decor or placement of furniture) make that clear to your guests, or take care of those tasks in advance of the party.
2. Keep the guest list intimate
It’s best to keep a nesting party guest list small. Aim for a cozy gathering of close friends and family who know the parents-to-be well. These are the people who won’t mind jumping in and tackling a task without much guidance.
Pro tip for helpful friends/family: If you are organizing the party on behalf of the parent(s), make sure to ask the parents who they feel comfortable having at the party. This is their day, and they should feel surrounded by people who make them feel at ease.
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3. Provide snacks and drinks
Don’t forget to provide food and drinks for guests. Keep the menu simple but satisfying — think finger foods, a small charcuterie board, or treats like cake or cookies.
Pro tip for helpful friends/family: If you want to go the extra mile, consider themed snacks like “baby carrots” or “mini sandwiches” as a sweet touch. Try to incorporate snacks the parents-to-be love too. This is a big day for them!
4. Organize task stations
To keep things running smoothly, set up designated areas for specific tasks. You might consider:
A laundry station with detergent and baskets for washing and folding baby clothes
A meal-prep area with cutting boards, storage containers, and recipes
A nursery corner with tools for assembling furniture or organizing baby essentials
Pro tip for whoever is hosting: Have clear instructions at each station to help guests jump in without feeling lost. Keep it lighthearted — yes, you’re working, but everyone should have fun too!
5. End with gratitude
The spirit of a nesting party is about creating connection and community. Let everyone know how important—and appreciated—their contributions were. A well-planned nesting party is more than just a productive day — it’s a chance for everyone to come together and share in the excitement of welcoming a new life.
Pro tip for parents-to-be: Don’t forget to thank everyone for coming — and you may consider giving out inexpensive but thoughtful favors, like mini candles, bath salts, or small potted plants, too.
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6 creative ideas to make your nesting party extra-special
Adding a few creative touches can make a nesting party even more meaningful. If you are helping to host the nesting party for the couple, here are a few thoughtful touches that can make the day feel magical, all while keeping the focus on love, connection, and preparation.
1. Decorate with love
You don’t have to go overboard with decor, but few small touches can set the tone and create a warm, inviting atmosphere. Consider using soft, neutral colors for plates and napkins to create a cozy vibe, and maybe add fresh flowers.
For a personal touch, display baby photos of the parents-to-be, or hang a small sign that says something like, “Team [Baby’s Name]” or “Welcome to the Nesting Party!”
2. Create a sweet memory book
Set up a space where guests can leave heartfelt messages, advice, or wishes for the new parents and baby. This creates a keepsake that the family can look back on fondly.
You might consider a beautiful notebook or scrapbook for guests to write notes, parenting tips, or even funny anecdotes about the parents-to-be. Not sure what to write? Here are a few ideas.
3. Make a great playlist
Music can completely transform the energy of a gathering, so create a playlist to match the mood.
Include upbeat songs to keep the momentum going during tasks, and add some calming ones for the quieter moments, like when the parents-to-be need a quick break. For a sentimental touch, throw in a few songs that are meaningful to the family, like wedding songs, lullabies, or nostalgic favorites. Sharing the playlist after the party can also serve as a sweet reminder of the day.
4. Host a mini meal-prep workshop
Freezer meals are a lifesaver for new parents, so make meal prep a fun and collaborative part of the day. Set up stations with pre-measured ingredients and simple recipes, like casseroles, soups, or breakfast burritos, and provide storage containers and labels so meals are ready to go straight into the freezer.
Guests can bring their favorite family-friendly recipes to share with the parents-to-be, making it feel even more special. Just be sure to check in on any dietary restrictions or foods that nursing mamas can’t have.
5. Add a pampering touch
While the focus of a nesting party is on helping the parents-to-be prepare for their baby, it’s also a chance to remind them to take care of themselves.
Create a DIY self-care station with supplies for making bath salts, sugar scrubs, or relaxing pillow sprays. Guests can make one for themselves and one for the parents-to-be.
You might also want to include a short mindfulness or relaxation break during the day. Lead the group in a simple breathing exercise to help everyone reset and recharge. Here are 10 ideas to get you started. A guided meditation could help too. If the group is small, consider ending the day with a mini pampering session, like foot soaks, face masks, or hand massages. These little moments of care will help everyone bond and leave feeling refreshed.
6. Capture the memories
Don’t forget to document all the fun of the day! Designate someone to take candid photos, and make sure they snap pictures of everyone in attendance. Or you can have a couple disposable film cameras or polaroid/instax style cameras on the table. At the end of the event, you may want to create a digital album or print a few photos for the parents-to-be as a memento of the day.
Nesting party FAQs
Can a nesting party be combined with a baby shower?
Yes, of course a nesting party can be combined with a baby shower. In fact, this approach is becoming more popular for people who want the best of both worlds. After a fun game or two, some guests might stay to help organize the nursery or fold baby clothes while others mingle.
Combining the two events can be a great way to accommodate a larger group while also focusing on preparation. Just be sure to communicate the plan to your guests so they know what to expect. It’s also a good idea to have clear boundaries between the two portions of the event, ensuring there’s time for both celebration and collaboration.
What are some typical tasks guests can help with during a nesting party?
There are lots of ways guests can lend a hand during a nesting party, but be sure to customize the tasks to fit the needs of the parents-to-be. Common tasks include:
Organizing the nursery: Guests can help set up furniture, sort baby clothes, or organize shelves and drawers.
Meal prepping: Preparing freezer-friendly meals is a popular nesting party activity that ensures the family has easy, nutritious options immediately postpartum.
Laundry duty: Washing and folding baby clothes, blankets, and burp cloths is a simple but essential task that saves the parents time.
Assembling baby gear: From strollers to cribs, putting together baby equipment can be time-consuming. A group effort speeds it up and makes it more fun.
Stocking diaper stations: Guests can set up diaper-changing areas in the nursery or around the house, making sure wipes, diapers, and creams are within easy reach.
Whatever you do, remember the goal is to help the parents-to-be feel more prepared but and give everyone a chance to bond.
Is it common to have a nesting party for a second or third child?
Absolutely! Nesting parties are a great option for anyone. While traditional baby showers are often reserved for first-time parents, nesting parties are more focused on practical help and emotional support, which can be invaluable no matter how many children the family already has.
For families with multiple children, a nesting party can be an opportunity to get the home ready for the new baby while still meeting the needs of older siblings. Tasks might include reorganizing shared spaces, setting up a new bedroom, or preparing meals that are kid-friendly for the entire family.
Since these families may already have many of the essentials like baby clothes or gear, the focus shifts to making the house feel calm. Guests can help make the transition smoother for everyone involved, which is a gift in itself.
How can you keep a nesting party budget-friendly?
A nesting party doesn’t have to break the bank. In fact, its practical and intimate nature makes it easier to plan on a budget. Start by focusing on what you already have, such as candles, plants, or photos to create a cozy atmosphere.
When it comes to food, keep it simple. Finger foods, a potluck-style menu, or even simple snack foods can be more than enough to keep everyone fueled. You might also consider hosting the event at a time that doesn’t require a full meal, like mid-morning or mid-afternoon.
Activities themselves don’t require expensive materials. Use items already available in the home, like laundry detergent for washing baby clothes or the parents’ own recipes for meal prep. Additionally, consider asking guests to contribute something small, like a prepared freezer meal or an hour of their time for a specific task. By focusing on meaningful contributions rather than costly extras, you can create a warm and supportive environment without overspending.
What are good gift ideas for a nesting party if the host accepts them?
Nesting parties don’t always include gifts, but they can still be a thoughtful addition if the parents-to-be are open to it. Practical gifts that align with the spirit of the event are often the best choice. Consider these ideas:
Freezer meals: Homemade or store-bought meals that can be easily reheated are a lifesaver when there’s a newborn baby in the house.
Service vouchers: Offer your time for babysitting, errand-running, or even dog-walking to help ease the family’s transition.
Consumable items: Diapers, wipes, and toiletries like baby lotion or shampoo are always appreciated.
Gift cards: Cards for grocery stores, meal delivery services, or local takeout can be incredibly helpful.
Personalized gifts: A handwritten note of encouragement, a small plant, or a simple self-care item like a candle or bath soak can show thoughtfulness and care.
If the parents-to-be have a registry, you can always pull a small item from it, but keep in mind that a nesting party is less about gifts and more about practical and emotional support. A heartfelt gesture often means more than a lavish present.
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