What to Buy for a Baby Shower

A baby shower shopping list needs more than cake and balloons. Plan food, drinks, tableware, decorations, game supplies, guest favors, and cleaning items so the setup and serving run smoothly. For a typical shower, allow two to three drinks per guest for the first hour, then one drink per hour after that. Order the cake and desserts early, and keep transport boxes and packaging materials ready for anything that arrives separately.

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What to bring

Grouped the way you'd shop for it, with quantities.

Administration

Event planning folder
Seating plan
Event timeline
Event schedule
Budget spreadsheet
Activity schedule
Guest contact list
Vendor contact sheet
Inventory checklist
Supplier contact list
Venue agreement
Thank-you cards
Catering contract
Decoration supplier contracts
Labels
Guest list
RSVP tracking sheets
Payment records
Feedback cards
Permanent markers
Gift registry information
Guest book
Checklists
Name badges
Pens
Name cards
Table numbers
Invitations
Envelopes
Information cards
Postage stamps

Decorations

Paper lanterns
Photo backdrop
Streamers
Decorative props
Decorative ribbons
Confetti
Balloons
Floral arrangements
Welcome sign
Balloon arch
Fresh flowers
Balloon weights
Artificial flowers
Decorative boxes
Banners
Decorative baskets
Decorative garlands
Decorative letters
Paper fans
Baby-themed signs
Tablecloths
Table runners
Chair covers
Centerpieces

Groceries

Cheese platter
Sandwiches
Finger foods
Cake
Cupcakes
Cookies
Candy
Chocolate
Fruit platter
Tea supplies

Kitchen

Cups
Cake stand
Glasses
Plates
Snack bowls
Bowls
Serving trays
Cutlery
Cake knife
Napkins
Cake server
Drinking straws
Beverage dispensers
Ice bucket
Coffee machine
Bottle opener

Cleaning

Dustpan
Mop
Cleaning products
Cleaning wipes
Trash bins
Recycling bins
Trash bags
Paper towels
Cleaning cloths
Broom

Technical

Spare batteries
LED candles
Fairy lights
Lamps
Extension cables
Instant camera
Power strips
Camera film
Bluetooth speaker
Microphone
Music player
Phone charging station
Decorative lighting

Logistics

Transport containers
Easels
Packing materials
Umbrella stand
Coat rack
Lost-and-found box
Storage boxes
Balloon pump
Plastic storage bins
Cable ties
Tool kit
Scissors
Registration table
Tape
Welcome table
Directional signs

Gifts

Guest favors
Favor bags
Gift tags
Baby gift basket
Gift wrapping paper
Gift bags
Tissue paper
Ribbon

Safety

Emergency contact list
First aid kit
Hand sanitizer
Tissues

Furniture

Lounge chairs
Dining tables
Cocktail tables
Gift display stands
Gift table
Dessert table
Beverage table
Chairs
Folding chairs

Activities

Prediction cards
Wishes cards
Memory book
Game cards
Guest photo props
Pens for games
Prize gifts
Raffle tickets
Advice cards

Tips

Plan 6–8 savory bites or small sandwiches per guest, plus one dessert portion each. Add a few extra portions when guests will be there for more than two hours.
Buy 2–3 drinks per guest for the first hour and 1 drink per guest for each additional hour. Include water and non-alcoholic options, and chill them at least 4 hours before guests arrive.
Order the baby shower cake and other desserts at least 7 days ahead. Confirm the delivery time again on the day, and keep a cake stand and serving utensils ready.
Allow at least 2 plates, 2 cups, and 2 napkins per guest when food is served in more than one round. Keep extra glasses available for guests who switch between water and other drinks.
Buy guest favors for the final guest count plus 10% extra, and set aside cleaning products, a dustpan, a mop, and spare batteries before decorating begins.

Frequently asked questions

How much food do I need for a baby shower?: Plan 6–8 savory bites or small sandwiches per guest, plus one dessert portion per person. For a two-hour shower with 20 guests, that means about 120–160 savory pieces and 20 dessert portions.
How many drinks should I buy for a baby shower?: Allow 2–3 drinks per guest for the first hour and 1 drink per guest for each additional hour. For 20 guests over two hours, buy roughly 60–80 drinks, including water and non-alcoholic choices.
When should I order a baby shower cake?: Order the cake at least 7 days before the shower, especially if it has a specific design or delivery time. Confirm the order and delivery window again 24 hours beforehand.
How many baby shower decorations and party favors do I need?: Buy favors for the confirmed guest count plus 10% extra; for 20 guests, prepare 22 favors. Order or collect balloons, banners, lanterns, and other decorations at least 3–5 days before setup so missing items can still be replaced.

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