Hosting the Perfect Shower on a Budget

If you’re in your twenties or thirties, chances are you’re either in the thick of weddings and babies—or you’re about to be. Hopefully, I’ve caught you right before your calendar becomes a rotating door of registries and RSVPs. If hosting is a love language, it’s definitely mine (gift-giving with snacks and decor? Yes please). I’m 24, and I’ve already thrown three bridal/baby showers—and I’ve picked up a few tips and tricks along the way. So whether you’re hosting for your best friend or sister…I’ve got you.

The Basics

Before the cute stuff, let’s nail down the essentials:

When, Where, How?

Aim to throw the shower a month or two before the big day (baby arrival or wedding). Flexibility is key, adjust to fit the theme, season or schedules of the guest of honor and VIPs. Pick a date, pick a place and lock it in early.

Budget Check

If you’re footing the bill solo, this post is especially for you. We’re talking champagne taste on a sparkling water budget—shooting for $500 or less. Embrace the DIY spirit and be smart with where you splurge (and where you totally don’t need to).

Guest List

Start with the bride or mom-to-be. They’ll give you a guest list and any must-invites. Ask for full names and addresses early so you can design and send invites with time to spare. Once you have the guest list, you’ll also be able to start planning more details based on the size of the shower.

Theme Time

Okay, now we’re getting to the fun part. Scroll TikTok, pin to your Pinterest board and find a theme that screams “her”. The more niche and personal, the better. Think “Italian dinner party” over “greenery and gold.” (Though, if greenery and gold is her vibe, you rock it.) Check out this blog for some niche ideas.

Jumping In

Invites

I’m a Canva girl through and through. Beautiful designs, easy customization and budget-friendly printing. I’ve even printed invites myself using an HP printer + ink subscription. Add scrapbook paper or washi tape to elevate them with a little extra flair.

What to include on invites:

  • Date & Time

  • Address

  • Theme hint (or just say it loud!)

  • Registry info

  • RSVP details

Optional add-ons:

  • Dress code

  • Activity instructions (e.g., bring a recipe card, book instead of a card)

The Nitty Gritty

Menu Magic

Food can sneakily wreck your budget. Here’s the secret: avoid mealtimes. 10-12 or 2-4 keeps guests fed just enough without expecting a full spread. If your even does fall over a meal, consider a mini potluck. Tap a few other helpers to bring a dish. Easy, affordable and very community-core. Don’t forget about the drinks either. Check with the venue what you are and aren’t allowed to bring.

Decor on a Dime

Your best friends: Dollar Tree, Canva, craft stores and your hot glue gun. Think DIY photo backdrops, themed signage, balloon garlands and table accents. Want inspo? Check out my decor guide here.

Activities That Don’t Suck

2-3 games or activities max. Keep it simple, sweet and don’t over plan. You want guests mingling, not stuck in forced fun. Baby showers are great for putting together activities that create something for the parents-to-be—like make your own onesies, or draw a block. Check out my baby shower deep dive.

Finishing Touches

Guest books can be classic or creative (sign a Bible, a children’s book or a cutting board!). Include advice cards, date night cards or other fun things that the guest of honor can read and look back on later on. Game prizes are a chance to tie the theme together. I once did an Italian dinner-themed shower and gave away Carbone sauce, a spoon rest and a cute olive oil bottle. Little details like this make it feel personal and polished. Party favors aren’t necessary, but a great added touch to rope in the theme and thank the guests.

A Word About Gifts

Okay, deep breath. This part might ruffle some feathers—but let’s talk about it.

Bring. A. Gift.

Even if you’re hosting. Even if you’re broke. Even if you already spent 30 hours hot-gluing paper flowers. It doesn’t have to be expensive—a thoughtful homemade gift or even a heartfelt card goes a long way. But showing up empty-handed when the guest of honor is celebrating a major life milestone? Not the move.

I’ve been in wedding parties where bridesmaids didn’t bring gifts. I’ve seen hosts not bring gifts. It’s awkward. It’s disappointing. And it’s totally avoidable. Think about how you’d feel if the roles were reversed.

Need gift ideas? Check out this blog.

Wrapping it Up

At the end of the day, throwing a shower isn’t about Pinterest perfection. It’s about celebrating someone you love and making them feel special, seen and supported. Whether your budget is $50 or $500, thoughtfulness always wins.

So plan it with love and don’t stress the small stuff. You’ve got this, and your guest of honor is lucky to have you.

Now go forth and host like the organized, budget-conscious Martha Stewart you are.

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