While most baby showers tend to be an afternoon tea party, there’s no rule that says that must be the case. There are many alternatives to consider as we will explore here.

Moms-to-be often need a little pampering. After all, they will be very pregnant by the time of the baby shower and will be uncomfortable and quite possibly not sleep well at night. They may also find it difficult to relax with the usual anxieties about giving birth and being responsible for a newborn. How about throwing a baby shower at a day spa? Many cater spas specifically for pregnant women and offer appropriate treatments. Treatments can often be booked separately or as part of a day package, so there will be an option to suit all budgets. Many spas will even offer a cheap day pass to their facility without purchasing treatments to really keep costs down.

If the cost of a spa is too high, you don’t have to give up the pampering thing, just set it up at home! Think luscious masks, luscious nail polishes, conditioning hair treatments, moisturizing hand and foot lotions, and more. Whether you just pamper the mom-to-be or get all the guests involved, it’s up to you!

Another great idea, especially in the summer months, is a picnic barbecue or baby shower. If you don’t have space in the garden, camp in the local park. Think outdoor games like doll’s cart races and diaper changing races. This theme is perfect if you want a couples baby shower so the boys can let off steam by kicking around a ball or showing off their manly cooking skills over the coals!

Restaurants are a great idea if you don’t want to host a party at home. Many have private rooms for rent, either cheap or free, and aside from collecting gifts at the end, you don’t have to do the cleaning! Many restaurants will allow you to bring decorations and you won’t even have to worry about catering.

Finally, a relatively new phenomenon: the Wii party! Great for getting friends involved, as a little friendly competition tends to loosen everyone up. What you play is up to you, but make sure it’s not too strenuous for the mom-to-be. Good for those who don’t like ‘traditional’ baby showers but would just like a fun get together with all their closest friends and family (and can still sneak in some cool baby related cake!)