How to Plan a Gender-Neutral Baby Shower

Gender-neutral baby showers have gained popularity in recent years. Moving away from the traditional “pink is for girls, blue is for boys” dynamic allows parents-to-be to focus on what matters most: the arrival of a new little human.

Whether parents are keeping the gender a surprise, prefer to avoid stereotypes, or simply want something a little different, a gender-neutral approach offers an opportunity to discover new themes and unleash creativity. If you are planning the event or are the expectant parent, this guide covers inspiring themes, versatile palettes, and decor tips to pull off a fun and memorable celebration.

1. Choose a Theme That Tells a Story

The theme is the anchor of your party; it sets the tone for everything, from invitations and food to the atmosphere. Without the constraints of gendered stereotypes, you can choose themes that are timeless, modern, or have personal meaning.

The Classics: Nostalgic & Charming

These themes never go out of style, as they spark the playful magic of childhood.

• Woodland & Safari: Bring the outdoors in. Think fox motifs, bears, and owls for a forest vibe, or soft grey elephants and tall giraffes for a safari look.
• Celestial (“Over the Moon”): Deep blues, gold stars, and crescent moons characterize this dreamy aesthetic. It creates a magical, calming atmosphere.
• Storybook Magic: Lean into nostalgia by basing the party on childhood classics like Winnie the Pooh, Goodnight Moon, or The Rainbow Fish.

The Moderns: Fresh & Stylish

For parents who prefer a contemporary look, these themes offer clean lines and sophistication.

• Minimalist & Geometric: Emphasize simple shapes (such as hexagons and triangles) and open spaces. It feels curated and high-end.
• The “No-Theme” Theme: Sometimes the best theme is a feeling. Use phrases like “Oh Baby!” or “Welcome to the World” as the centerpiece of the decor, focusing on typography and celebration rather than characters.
• Eco-Friendly & Nature-Inspired: Focus on sustainable materials, small potted succulents (which can double as favors), and lush greenery.

2. Curate a Versatile Gender-Neutral Palette

Once the theme is set, the colors follow. While you are skipping the gender-specific hues, you certainly aren’t skipping out on beautiful colors.

• Earth Tones: Warm beiges, terracottas, sage greens, and browns work well for rustic themes.
• Pastels: Mint green, lemon yellow, lavender, and peach work well for rainbow themes.
• Muted Shades: Dusty blue, slate grey, mustard yellow, and olive work well with celestial themes.
• Monochromatic Neutrals: Cream, white, grey, and black are modern and straightforward, and work well with minimalist themes.
• Bold & Bright: Vivid teal, sunshine yellow, and tangerine work with summer parties to bring brightness and positive energy.

3. Get Creative with Decorations

You don’t need to decorate every square inch of the venue. Focus your energy (and budget) on high-impact areas. Additionally, including framed baby photos of Mom and Dad adds a nostalgic and fun vibe to the celebration.

The “Instagram” Backdrop

Create a focal point for taking photos to help make wonderful memories.

• Nature Vibes: Use a boxwood hedge wall with a neon sign, or hang lush garlands of flowers or leaves for a natural touch.
• Starry Night: Drape midnight blue velvet fabric and hang strands of vertical twinkle lights.
• Storybook Corner: Create a large cutout of an open book or a painted mural of the Hundred Acre Wood.

Eye-Catching Table Settings

• Rustic Charm: Use burlap runners, small succulents, and mason jars filled with baby’s breath.
• Minimalist Elegance: Dress the tables with crisp white linens, silver flatware, and geometric centerpieces.
• Pastel Glow: Layer soft tones and textures for a subtle, glowing effect.
• Eclectic: Don’t be afraid to mix patterns! Striped napkins with floral plates can look chic and fun when kept within your color palette.

Fun Gender-Neutral Baby Shower Games (That Aren’t Boring)

There are numerous ideas available on the Internet for entertaining baby shower games. You can also purchase cards with Baby Bingo, Word Scramble, Baby Trivia, and many other games, or you can come up with your own. Here are some ideas:

• Baby Jeopardy: Guests select categories such as Baby Animals, Parenting Hacks, or New Parent Survival Mode. It’s competitive and hilarious.
• The Price Is Right, Baby Edition: Guess the total price of baby essentials. Warning: Some will be shocked by the cost of diapers.
• Emoji Nursery Rhyme Game: Decode nursery rhymes using emoji clues. It’s quick, easy, and surprisingly fun.

Relax and Have Fun!

A baby shower, whether traditional or gender-neutral, is about celebrating the excitement of new beginnings. With thoughtful planning, a few creative touches, and a focus on making the parents-to-be feel loved and supported, you can create a celebration that everyone will fondly remember. No matter how you style it, the real magic comes from gathering together to welcome a little one who is already much adored.

FAQs: Planning a Gender-Neutral Baby Shower

Q: What exactly is a gender-neutral baby shower?

A gender-neutral shower is a celebration that avoids focusing on the baby’s sex, and the well-worn trope of “blue is for boys, pink is for girls.” Instead, the event emphasizes the parents and the joy of a new baby, using inclusive themes and neutral decor to create a welcoming environment for everyone.

Q: Why are gender-neutral showers becoming so popular?

There has been a cultural shift away from traditional gender stereotypes. Additionally, some parents choose not to find out the sex of the baby until birth. A neutral shower allows them to celebrate the surprise with their family and friends.

Q: Can we still do a “Gender Reveal” at the shower?

Absolutely. Some parents know the gender but want a neutral aesthetic for the party, saving the “big news” for a cake-cutting or balloon-popping surprise at the very end. Mix and match traditions as you see fit.

Q: What are the best games for a gender-neutral shower?

Most classic games work perfectly! Favorites include “Baby Bingo” or “The Price is Right: Baby Edition.” Activity stations, like decorating white onesies with fabric markers, are also a big hit. Also, don’t plan too many games; a few good ones go a long way.

Q: How should I handle the food menu?

Food doesn’t need to be “gendered,” but it can match your theme. A “cravings table” with pickles and ice cream is fun, or feature a sophisticated spread of charcuterie and finger sandwiches. For dessert, white frosted cakes with greenery or gold accents are always a classic choice.

Q: What are good gift ideas if the baby’s gender isn’t known?

Focus on essentials and development. Diapers, wipes, and gift cards to online retailers or to stores that carry baby essentials are always welcome. For clothing, stick to greys, whites, greens, and yellows. Books and developmental toys are also fantastic choices.

Q: Is asking for books instead of greeting cards acceptable?

Yes! Include a note in the invitation asking guests to bring a signed children’s book as a gift, rather than a greeting card. It helps build the baby’s library and provides a fond keepsake.

Q: When should I start planning?

Aim to start the planning process 2 to 3 months before the date. This reduces stress and gives you ample time to secure a venue, curate your theme, and allow guests to RSVP without rushing.