As the temperature gets colder outside, inside your belly, things are heating up as your baby grows more and more with each passing day. An approaching due date means it's time to start planning your baby shower. Instead of dreading the cold, lean into the magic of the winter season.
In fact, a winter wonderland is one of the best baby shower themes because there are tons of ways to make it feel extra special, says Christi Payumo, a party planning aficionado and the events manager of Irresistible Events in Las Vegas. "Winter is a magical season to celebrate new beginnings," she explains. "It brings in a sense of coziness that complements the joy of welcoming a new life."
For the winter wonderland baby shower of your dreams, read on for Payumo's expert advice, as well as tons of inspiring winter theme baby shower ideas you can snag and make your own.
Winter baby shower invitations
The holiday season is such a busy time of year, which is why Payumo says picking a date carefully is critical.
Choose a date that avoids holiday craziness
"To avoid peak holiday rush, schedule your winter wonderland baby shower in early to mid-December or in January," says Payumo. "These months offer a festive atmosphere without the holiday rush, ensuring that your guests can attend without the typical holiday-related commitments and stress." Depending on the climate where you live, February and early March can be prime months to lean into a winter-themed baby shower, as well.
Consider how timing affects the vibes and aesthetic
If you're on the fence about timing, there are pros to both months, Payumo says: "December allows that holiday cheer, while January, February and even early March provides a more relaxed and enjoyable celebration." (If you're hosting in November or earlier, opt for a fall baby shower instead.)
Lean into the timing with your baby shower invitations by choosing reindeer-themed accents for a December shower, snowflake-themed accents for a January one, white hearts for February or some snowy white baby's breath for March, for example.
Winter baby shower decorations
These striking winter baby shower decorations and centerpieces will make guests feel like they're walking in a winter wonderland.
Capture the sparkle of the season
Mimic winter's magical sparkle by adding touches of metallic silver or gold accents throughout your shower decor. Whether it's a few silver or foil balloons, metallic streamers or glitter-covered centerpieces, a few small touches here and there will quickly elevate your aesthetic.
Make a statement with a balloon garland
For the ultimate focal point, opt for a balloon garland. "Create a whimsical winter wonderland baby shower atmosphere with a cascading balloon garland that mirrors falling snowflakes, draping it elegantly across the room for a photo op," Payumo advises.
Add magic to your tablescape
"Transform your tablescape into a cozy winter retreat with faux fur table runners and silver or gold accents," says Payumo. You can also incorporate white florals, like roses and baby's breath, for a more feminine vibe.
Set up a hot chocolate bar
Carafes full of piping hot cocoa complemented with an assortment of tasty toppings is a memorable idea that'll get party-goers talking. After all, who doesn't love hot chocolate?!
Hang snowflakes everywhere
For an instant wow-factor, hang pretty paper snowflakes from the ceiling with clear fishing line. You only need a few to make a major impact; try them above your baby shower food table.
Winter baby shower cakes
Make your baby shower cake the main event with these super sweet ideas perfect for any winter baby shower.
Consider certain colors
"When selecting a winter baby shower cake, choose soft pastel colors that reflect the winter season," says Payumo. Pale pinks and baby blues, as well as sugar-dusted muted greens that mimic a snow-covered forest, can work beautifully for a winter-themed baby shower cake.
Load up on wintery accents
Make your cake stand out from the crowd with a few finishing touches, such as snowflakes or an adorable cake topper, says Payumo.
Taste the flavors of the season
"Choose cake flavors that are associated with the season — like spiced pumpkin, gingerbread, dark chocolate orange or butter pecan — to enhance the winter baby shower theme," says Payumo.
Make it bite-sized
"Consider serving cupcakes or mini individual cakes in addition to — or instead of — a traditional large cake," suggests Payumo. Not only is it easier for guests to serve themselves, but also allows for easier portion control and adds variety to the dessert table, she explains.
Go monochrome
Nothing says winter wonderland quite like an all-white, arctic-inspired cake. Fondant details — including mittens, snowflakes and polar bears — make this sweet confection anything but boring!
Winter baby shower ideas
Having a few baby shower games lined up is not only proper baby shower etiquette, but it's also a great way to entertain guests while encouraging them to mingle.
Choose games that invite conversation
"Interactive games add a layer of fun and entertainment," says Payumo. Try putting a winter-themed scratch-off game at each place setting. "You can also try games like 'Baby It's Cold Outside' bingo or host a 'Snowflake Scavenger Hunt' to break the ice amongst your guests who may not know each other well."
Play guess the delivery date
All you need is a cute calendar and a few pens to get guests playing this cute baby shower game. Set your calendar up on an easel in the corner of the room, and let guests wander over to it on their own time.
Set up a well wishes tree
A silver spray-painted branch is not only a stunning centerpiece, but it's also a way for guests to leave well wishes for your little snow angel, too. Leave a white gift tag at each table setting with a pen, and ask your friends and family to write a wish for the baby and hang it on the tree.
Show your appreciation with a sweet parting gift
"Thank your guests with a winter-themed baby shower favors," says Payumo. "Consider gifting them with a hot cocoa kit, a Christmas cookie or a pair of gloves with a personalized tag," which will end their experience on a high note.