Level-Up Your Baby Shower - Host a Nesting Party Instead
My baby registry was fairly non-traditional, with many things that were considered atypical at the time. I put a ton of time into building that thing and overall, it was super minimalist. I felt like it reflected my personal values and needs, and when everything was checked off, I honestly believed that I was prepared for my baby's arrival.
However, once my baby was actually here, I realized that I had gotten a bunch of stuff I didn’t actually needunnecessary items and that I was missing some essentials that I hadn't included on my registry. As a result, I ended up returning or selling a lot of things and sending my partner out to purchase the things I now realized I needed.
Recently, I learned about nesting parties, and I was blown away by the idea. I wish I had known about them earlier! A nesting party would have been brilliant for preparing for postpartum life. If you're pregnant right now and want to set yourself up for success, consider pairing a nesting party with a baby registry through Be Her Village.
If you're looking for an alternative to a traditional baby shower, a nesting party might be just the thing for you. I’m so bummed that I’ll never be able to have my own nesting party, but from here on out, I’ll for sure be encouraging all of my clients to throw one of their own.
So here I’ll just get into what a nesting party is, how it differs from a baby shower, and some ideas for activities to include at your party.
What Is a Nesting Party?
A nesting party is a gathering of friends and family to help the expecting parents prepare for the arrival of their new baby. Unlike a baby shower, which typically involves gift-giving and games, a nesting party focuses on tasks and activities to help the parents-to-be get their home and nursery ready for the baby.
How Does a Nesting Party Differ From a Baby Shower?
The biggest difference between a nesting party and a baby shower is the focus. A baby shower is centered around gift-giving and celebrating the impending arrival of the baby. While there may be some practical gifts given at a baby shower, the emphasis is typically on cute clothes, toys, and other baby gear.
On the other hand, a nesting party is about getting the home ready for the baby. Guests may still bring gifts, but they are more likely to be practical items like diapers, wipes, and other baby essentials. The focus of the party is on tasks and activities that will help the parents-to-be prepare for the arrival of their new addition.
Should You Consider a Nesting Party?
If you're a natural-minded minimalist mom, a nesting party might be a better fit for you than a traditional baby shower. Instead of being showered with gifts that you may or may not need or want, a nesting party allows you to get help with practical tasks like organizing the nursery or preparing freezer meals for after the baby is born.
A nesting party can also be a more eco-friendly option than a baby shower. By focusing on practical tasks, you can avoid excess waste from wrapping paper, decorations, and other disposable items that are often associated with traditional baby showers.
Nesting Party Activity Ideas
So, what kinds of activities can you include in a nesting party? Here are a few ideas to get you started:
Nursery organization: Have guests help you organize the baby's room, put away clothes and gear, and ensure everything is in its place.
Freezer meal prep: Make a few big batches of freezer-friendly meals together that the parents-to-be can reheat once the baby arrives. Alternatively, ask everyone who comes to the party to bring a freezer meal.
Baby gear assembly: Have guests help you assemble any baby gear you've purchased, like a stroller, or have an experienced parent help install the car seat.
Nursery DIY projects: Get crafty and make some DIY nursery decor, like wall hangings or mobiles.
Baby clothes prep: Have guests help you wash and fold any baby clothes you've received, getting everything ready for when the baby arrives.
Nursing station prep: Have your friends and family help you put together a couple of baskets or bins for your nursing supplies, and then stash them where you think you’ll spend the most time breastfeeding (in the nursery, next to your bed, next to the couch).
Activity bins for other kiddos: If you have a toddler or other children, consider having guests help prepare activity bins to keep them engaged while breastfeeding the new baby. Add items and toys that will only be used during nursing sessions, making them more exciting for your child. You may include items such as coloring books, stickers, and small toys to keep them entertained.
Have someone attach your new bidet to your toilet: a bidet is an incredibly easy way to help yourself feel clean and refreshed during your postpartum without having to shower multiple times a day. You can find one on Amazon and easily install it in just a few minutes. And the benefits will continue when your cycle returns, and then again when your little one is potty learning.
A nesting party can be a fun and practical way to prepare for the arrival of your new baby. By focusing on tasks instead of gifts, you can get the help you need to get your home and nursery ready, while also spending time with friends and family.
