What’s a Nesting Party? An Overview of this Baby Shower Alternative + Tips
What to Know About Nesting Parties
What is a nesting party?
A nesting party is a gathering where friends and family come together to help expectant parents prepare for their baby's arrival. Instead of just bringing gifts, guests roll up their sleeves and tackle practical tasks—making it a meaningful way to support parents-to-be.
How is it different from a baby shower?
While baby showers focus on gifts, games, and celebration, nesting parties are all about hands-on preparation. Think assembling the crib, organizing diapers in a caddy, installing the car seat, or batch-cooking freezer meals. It's less about unwrapping presents and more about getting things done by assembling them or putting them away.
Why it's helpful
When you're in the final stretch of pregnancy—exhausted, swollen, and uncomfortable—the last thing you want to do is assemble furniture or cook extra meals. A nesting party lightens the load significantly. Plus, many hands make light work, and you'll be amazed at how much you can accomplish together.
When to host
Since babies arrive on their own schedule, it's best to host a nesting party 2-3 weeks before the due date. This gives you a cushion of time while ensuring everything is ready when baby decides to make their entrance.
Tips for Hosting a Successful Nesting Party
Create To Do lists
Print out check off sheets (get my checklists here using your Canva account) so guests know exactly what to do.
If you want, print helpful notes like "Keep all instruction manuals," or "Wash baby towels separately from clothes,"
Set the mood with music
A fun playlist keeps energy high and makes the work feel less like work. Choose upbeat, feel-good music that everyone can enjoy.
Provide plenty of snacks and drinks
Keep your helpers fueled! Set out easy-to-grab snacks, beverages, and maybe even order pizza.
Task Ideas for Your Nesting Party
Laundry
Wash baby clothes, blankets, towels
Include instructions for using your specific washer and dryer
Organizing / Decluttering
It’s always better to declutter BEFORE cleaning. The more you declutter, the less you have to clean.
In the kitchen, tackle this before meal prep to clear counter and table space
Set up changing stations, organize dresser drawers, stock the diaper caddy
Meal prep
Declutter before cooking
Ensure all dishes and cookware are clean before cooking
Find freezer meal recipes here
Do a thorough kitchen cleanup after meal prep is complete
Cleaning
Have all cleaning supplies out and easily accessible
Focus on high-traffic areas: kitchen, bathroom, nursery
Assembling
Keep box cutters, scissors, and trash bags handy
Designate a spot for all instruction manuals—you'll need them later
Loved ones can help assembling the crib, dresser, car seat, etc.
Other Important Reminders Before Baby Arrives
Book your newborn photo session now – photographers (like Brooke Chapman , Megan Thackston , and Heather Graham) fill up quickly!
Set up automatic photo backup – you don't want to lose those precious first moments. I can help you back up and organize your photos so you have space on your phone to take pictures at getevertidy.com
Support local Hot Springs shops – if you're in the area, check out these recommended stores Oh Honey, Tater Tots, Doodlebugs
Free printables – download my FREE printable “Get Ready for Baby” checklist here
Planning for baby's arrival can feel overwhelming—there's so much to do and so little time. A nesting party is the perfect solution, bringing friends and family together to tackle practical tasks before your little one arrives. But while you're checking off your pre-baby to-do list, don't forget one of the most important tasks: organizing and backing up your photos.
You’ll be taking so many photos of your little one— does your phone have the space?
As a Hot Springs-based photo organizer, I help busy moms like you safeguard their memories—so you can focus on making new ones with your baby. Check out my services to see how I can help you!
Happy party planning!
-Andrea