How to host a nesting party

Is there a little one coming into your life soon? Whether it’s you, your partner, or someone you know, having a baby is a huge milestone that deserves support and celebration. While we love the games and gift giving of a baby shower, a nesting party is all about preparing the parents for what is ahead. 

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Nesting parties are popping up more and more as caregivers juggle careers, responsibilities, and pregnancy all at the same time. Many parents prefer a more intimate and casual gathering to relieve stress and ease nerves. Sound like the right fit? We’ve got the guide to hosting this special parenthood celebration.

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What is a nesting party?

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A nesting party is an opportunity for family and friends to gather around the parents-to-be and help them prepare the home before the baby arrives. Preparation can include:

• Babyproofing the home
• Building baby furniture 
• Organizing the nursery
• Stocking the pantry with food and supplies
• Deep cleaning the home
• Catching up with family and friends

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Nesting parties are usually a smaller and more laid-back event at the expecting parents’ home. They are usually planned by a close family member or friend, or parents can throw it themselves. The party prep is minimal and the payoff is huge, especially in the time leading up to parenthood. 

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What makes a nesting party different from a baby shower?

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Both nesting parties and baby showers are all about surrounding the parents-to-be with love and support before they meet their newest family member. 

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Baby showers typically include games, gifts, and food and refreshments to share. Everyone has their own timeline, but baby showers typically occur around the 28 week mark of a pregnancy.

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Nesting parties can include snacks and drinks, but the gift comes in the form of help from the guests. The nesting party usually happens around the 32 week mark. At this point, the future parents are focusing on building their “nest” and preparing for their new arrival. 

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How to throw a nesting party

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1. Put together a to-do list

There is nothing like marking an item off the to-do list. Whether you’re hosting for yourself or someone else, we recommend writing down the day's tasks ahead of time so nothing falls through the cracks. Feel like you’re missing something? This checklist is a great place to start.

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Nesting party checklist: 

• Assemble cribs, strollers, and high chairs
• Install car seat
• Pack hospital bag (if planning for hospital birth)
• Wash and fold baby clothes
• Sterilize and organize bottles and breast pumps (if nursing and pumping) 
• Prep and label freezer meals for the first weeks of postpartum
• Organize changing station with diapers and wipes
• Vacuum, dust, and mop the home
• Declutter pantries and cabinets
• Set up sound machines and baby monitors
• Stock up on postpartum supplies (cooling pads, nursing bras, pajamas, etc.)
• Share advice and wisdom with the new parents
• Unwind and relax 

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2. Prepare snacks and drinks 

Baby prep is hard work! Set out refreshments and snacks to give guests a chance to relax and refuel as they work. Prepare food ahead of time or order in to make the day even easier. We’re partial to pizza, because it’s easy to eat with your hands while you work (and won’t require too many dishes).

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3. Assign tasks 

Delegating tasks to guests is a simple way to keep things organized. Assign responsibilities according to people's strengths and consider how many people the job may need. You can add event sign-ups to your Evite to share responsibilities with guests.

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4. Try out the baby gear

Closing up strollers, installing car seats, putting on a wrap carrier… It can take time to get used to all these new supplies. The parents-to-be can take the day as an opportunity to learn how to use the baby’s new gear and get helpful tips from fellow parents. 

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5. Enjoy the day

A nesting party is meant to ease the stress of preparing for a baby, but it is also a great time to unwind with family and friends. Play music, order takeout, and chat with loved ones as you all get ready for a new family member. Nesting parties are great reminders of all the love and support that surround the parents-to-be.

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Nesting parties can help us remember to slow down and use support systems while preparing for big milestones. Take time to enjoy the company and find some fun in the process. A little help now will go a long way later!

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Every parent-to-be needs some wind beneath their wings. Pick a nesting party Invitation, gather the flock, and get ready to prep the nest!