What is a nesting party?
Welcoming a new baby is such a joyful milestone — but let’s be honest, it can also be a little overwhelming! That’s where a nesting party comes in. Think of it as the practical, low-key cousin of a baby shower — one that’s gaining popularity here in the UK for all the right reasons.
So, if you’re looking for a meaningful way to support an expectant parent (or you’re an expecting mum who prefers tea and to-do lists over nappy cakes and party games), read on
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Nesting Party invites - gender neutral
I don’t know why it has to be pink for a girl and blue for a boy, but that has become the tradition – these invites are supposed to not give away any clues to the gender of the upcoming baby.
Who is a Nesting Party for?
A nesting party is all about gathering close friends or family to help the parent-to-be prepare for their baby’s arrival. Instead of focusing on gifts and games, a nesting party is more about pitching in — helping with household prep, sharing advice, or simply offering emotional support and encouragement.
It’s perfect for:
Parents who already have the baby gear
Introverts who prefer a quieter celebration
Families wanting practical help over presents
Those who just love a good excuse for a tidy-up and a cuppa!
What Happens at a Nesting Party?
Every nesting party looks a bit different, but some lovely and helpful ideas include:
🧺 Tidy & Organise
Sorting baby clothes by size
Arranging the nursery or baby corner
Creating changing stations
🍽️ Cook & Prep
Making freezer meals for those early newborn days
Prepping snacks or pantry essentials
Packing the hospital bag
📝 Support & Share
Writing letters or notes of encouragement
Sharing real-life parenting tips
Setting up a WhatsApp group for after-birth check-ins
🎁 Optional Extras
A small token gift, like a self-care hamper or a journal
Handmade baby items
A plant or flower to symbolise growth
Nesting Party invites
This one can be downloaded from Etsy – i like the way it looks hand drawn and casual.
Hospital Checklist
Get fully prepared for your little one’s arrival with this beautifully designed, easy-to-use hospital bag checklist. Whether you’re a first-time mum or prepping again, this 5-page digital bundle makes packing stress-free and organised.
Keep It Cosy & Casual
The beauty of a nesting party is its flexibility. It can be as simple as a few friends popping round with takeaway and folding laundry, or a more planned day with specific tasks and a schedule. There’s no pressure to host the “perfect” party — the focus is on making the expectant parent feel loved, supported, and ready.
Bonus: it’s a brilliant way for friends and family who live nearby to lend a hand before baby arrives — when support is needed but the house is still relatively quiet!
Nesting Party vs. Baby Shower – What’s the Difference?
| Baby Shower | Nesting Party |
|---|---|
| Often gift-focused | Support-focused |
| Usually has games & cake | Often involves meal prep, tidying |
| Hosted by someone else | Can be hosted by parent or a friend |
| Traditional feel | Relaxed, homey vibe |
Planning Tips for a Nesting Party
Ask what’s needed. Check in with the parent-to-be — are they short on freezer space but drowning in baby grows?
Keep it intimate. A handful of close friends is ideal.
Bring snacks or takeout. No need for a spread — just something comforting.
Don’t over-plan. A loose schedule with a few helpful tasks works wonders.
Offer to tidy up after. The last thing anyone needs is more mess!
Why are Nesting Parties better than Baby Showers?
In a world full of Instagram-perfect baby showers, a nesting party offers something deeply personal and supportive. It’s not about fanfare — it’s about showing up, lending a hand, and building a village around someone about to welcome new life.
And honestly? That’s worth celebrating.
Do you bring a gift to the nesting party?
The short answer is: you don’t have to, but a small, thoughtful gift is always appreciated — especially if it’s practical or comforting.
Since a nesting party is more about helping than gifting, most guests focus on offering their time and support. But if you’d like to bring something along, here are a few sweet and useful ideas that suit the tone of a nesting party:
🎁 Gift Ideas for a Nesting Party
💛 For the Parent:
A self-care hamper (think lip balm, tea, face mask, cosy socks)
A journal or notebook for baby milestones or personal thoughts
A frozen homemade meal or “ready-to-bake” goodies
A bouquet of flowers or a plant to brighten up their space
👶 For Baby:
A handmade or secondhand baby item
A book for baby’s first library
A pack of muslins, vests, or other essentials (if requested)
A letter or card with well wishes or advice
🧹 For the Party:
Extra cleaning supplies, snacks, or coffee for the group
A storage basket or organiser (to help with nursery sorting)
A cute “Do Not Disturb” sign for after baby arrives
🌿 Thoughtful, Not Flashy
Think of nesting party gifts like showing up with a lasagne or offering to fold baby clothes — acts of kindness over extravagance. Many parents feel overwhelmed by stuff before baby arrives, so this is the perfect chance to give something simple, helpful, or heartfelt.
Mum to be gift pack
The Mum to Be gift set is a unique and thoughtful selection of British gifts specially designed for a pregnant Mum to Be. Every component is carefully selected with pregnancy in mind to help the Mum to Be to relax and pamper herself.
🐣 What Happens at a Nesting Party?
Instead of just playing games or opening gifts, guests might:
Help assemble nursery furniture
Organise baby clothes and supplies
Cook and freeze meals for after the baby arrives
Prep hospital bags or write encouraging notes for the new parents
Create a calm, clutter-free space for when baby comes home
It’s all about “nesting” — preparing the home for a new baby in a supportive, community-driven way.
💛 Why People Might Love It:
Nesting parties are especially popular among parents who:
Prefer a low-key, useful celebration
Already have children and don’t need traditional baby shower gifts
Want emotional and practical support over presents
Think of it as a heartwarming mix of a baby prep day + bonding time + care package creation
Your Baby week by week
Thoughtful books could also be a useful gift.