Baby Shower Host Checklist: Day-Of Timeline

The day of the shower can feel chaotic. This hour-by-hour timeline keeps you on track.

Day Before

• Grocery shop for perishables
• Charge all devices
• Print any game cards or signage
• Set out non-perishable decorations
• Confirm with vendors (caterer, bakery)
• Text expecting parent with arrival time

3 Hours Before (11 AM for a 2 PM shower)

• Arrive at venue
• Set up tables and chairs
• Hang banners, balloons, backdrop
• Arrange table centerpieces
• Set up gift table with basket for cards
• Test music setup

2 Hours Before (12 PM)

• Prep food (if homemade)
• Set up beverage station
• Arrange desserts/cake
• Set out paper goods and utensils
• Fill water pitchers
• Set up game stations

1 Hour Before (1 PM)

• Final walkthrough (does everything look good?)
• Put out guest book or wishes cards
• Place favors by exit
• Start music at low volume
• Get dressed and ready
• Assign co-host roles (greeter, photo person, gift tracker)

30 Minutes Before (1:30 PM)

• Turn up music slightly
• Light candles if using
• Do final food prep
• Designate someone to manage guest arrivals
• Have sign-in sheet or name tags ready

Shower Time (2 PM): Event Flow

• 2:00–2:30: Guests arrive, mingle, play passive game (Don't Say Baby)
• 2:30–2:45: Game #1
• 2:45–3:15: Food and socializing
• 3:15–3:45: Gift opening (with bingo running)
• 3:45–4:00: Cake/dessert
• 4:00–4:15: Thank yous and wrap-up

Cleanup (4:15 PM+)

• Load gifts into car
• Pack leftovers for parents
• Take down decorations
• Trash and recycling
• Return rentals (if applicable)