Budget Baby Shower Ideas

1. DISTRIBUTION

The average cost is 5% of your total budget.

Save money by hosting the gathering at your home rather than a restaurant or club (or ask a relative or another friend to do so). You might also throw the party in a public venue, such as a park in your neighbourhood, but make sure to check whether the location requires a permit. If you choose an outdoor area, be sure you have a rain strategy in place.

2. STATIONERY & INVITES

The average cost is 10% of your total budget.

Save money by using an online service like Paperless Post, Evite, ping, or MyPunchbowl instead of snail mail invitations. Your guests will appreciate the convenience of RSVPing by email, and you’ll feel good about saving money and trees. (If you’re inviting mom-to-grandmother be’s and great aunts, you might want to omit this proposal.) Cut out dozens of stars from strong card paper instead of a guest book. Request that guests write their best wishes to the baby on a piece of paper. Put the stars in a baby book with the title “A Star Is Born” or “When You Wish Upon a Star.”

3. INTERIOR DESIGN

The average cost is 5% of your total budget.

Ways to Save: Buying in a lot is one of the most cost-effective options. Compare online warehouse pricing to local store prices before making any purchases. Instead of mylar balloons, use latex – dozens of homogenous balloons, whether pink, blue or another colour combination, will make a large impression. Look for tableware at places like Christmas Tree Shops, where you may purchase inexpensive plates and glasses. In our baby shower themes section, you’ll find plenty of DIY decor ideas.

4. FLOWERS

The average cost is 5% of your total budget.

Ways to Save: Purchase blooms at a local farmers’ market and construct your centrepieces. Sticking to one trademark flower is an excellent method to keep novice floral arrangements looking polished. Choose white calla lilies or orange tulips, for example. To add uniqueness to the overall design, use monochrome vases of varying heights. Make floral paper arrangements as an alternative.

5. RENTAL PROPERTIES

The average cost is 5% of your total budget.

Savings: Having the party at your home should avoid the need for any furniture rentals. Get inventive with your seating alternatives for outdoor showers. Fill large picnic baskets with finger foods like tea sandwiches, strawberries, and baked cookies and spread blankets on the lawn. However, keep in mind that the expectant mother will still require a comfortable seat.

6. EATING AND DRINKING

The average cost is 40% of your whole budget.

Cooking is a great way to save money. Instead of hiring a caterer, go to your neighbourhood bulk food store for low-cost products. Even if you’ve never cooked before, a lovely spread of finger sandwiches, cheese, fruit, and crackers shouldn’t be too difficult to put together. Because service and tip make up a large part of the bill, eliminating paid staff and allowing customers to serve themselves at a buffet will save a lot of money.

7. DESSERT/CAKE

The average cost is 5% of your total budget.

Save money by enlisting the services of relatives and friends for the dessert bar. Is mom-to-aunt is famous for her delectable macarons? Request that she bake a few batches. Set up a DIY cupcake decorating station with prebaked vanilla and chocolate cupcakes, icing, and topping options provided by you.

8. ENTERTAINMENT

The average cost is 10% of your total budget.

Ways to Save: Don’t do it at all. This isn’t a wedding, so there are no wandering violinists. Plugin the iPod and create a new mix that guests of all ages will love.

9. PRIZES AND GAMES

The average cost is 5% of your total budget.

Ways to Save: Avoid the kitsch and stick to games that require only paper and pens. For inspiration, look through our selection of the best baby shower games. Allow your floral decorations to double as prizes, with the table centrepiece going to the winner.

10. FAVORITES

The average cost is 10% of your total budget.

Save money by sticking to gourmet favours — handmade cookies make a great parting gift. Use My Own Labels’ affordable cellophane bags (48 for $4!) and a lovely ribbon for packaging them.