Baby showers are a time to celebrate the impending arrival of a new life. They are also a time when family and friends come together to help the parents-to-be get ready for the big day. However, baby showers can also be a significant expense.
Anyone who’s ever thrown a baby shower knows that they can be pretty pricey affairs. Between the food, drinks, decorations, games and favors, the costs can really start to add up. But just because you’re on a budget doesn’t mean you have to skimp on the fun. There are plenty of ways to throw a fabulous baby shower without breaking the bank.
Keep the guest list small
One way to save money is to keep the guest list small. Invite only close family and friends, and limit the number of people who you invite from each circle. The more people you invite, the more food and drink you’ll need to buy.
Think about the time and day of your baby shower
Another way to save money is to think about the time and day of your baby shower. If you have the baby shower during the day, you can serve lunch instead of dinner. Or, if you have the baby shower on a weekday, you’ll likely be able to get cheaper rates at venues than if you had it on a Saturday night.
DIY as much as possible
Another way to save money is to DIY as much as possible. For example, instead of hiring a professional photographer, ask a friend or family member who is good with a camera to take pictures. You can also make your own baby shower favors or decorations. There are plenty of DIY tutorials online that can help you save money and still have a beautiful baby shower.
And when it comes to baby shower games and activities, keep it simple. Instead of purchasing expensive baby-themed games, try inexpensive printable baby shower games and worksheets instead.
Choose a venue where food is available
One of the best ways to save money on food for your baby shower is to hold the event at a place that already has food available. For example, many baby showers are held at restaurants, cafes, or even fast food places. This way, you don’t have to worry about preparing anything – and you can usually get a discount for booking a large party.
While you could cover the entire cost yourself, don’t be shy about asking your friends to contribute as well. A good compromise could be that you order and pre-pay for a set number of shareable appetizers but ask that attendees cover their own drinks and any additional food they may want to order.
Have a potluck baby shower
Another great way to save money on baby shower food is to have a potluck at your or a friend’s home. This means that each guest brings one dish to share. Not only does this take the pressure off of you as the host, but it also guarantees that there will be plenty of food for everyone. Plus, it’s a great way for guests to show off their culinary skills!
Inexpensive baby shower foods
Of course, if you do end up having to prepare food for your baby shower, there are still plenty of ways to do it on a budget. Finger foods are always a good option, as they’re easy to make and don’t require any fancy plates or utensils. There are still plenty of great (and cheap!) baby shower foods that you can make on your own.
Some great budget party food ideas include:
- Chips and dip – A classic for a reason, this baby shower food is always a hit. Plus, it’s cheap and easy to make. Try our Cheesy Onion Dip with Bacon recipe.
- Vegetable platters – Another simple and inexpensive option, veggie platters are perfect for baby showers. Just be sure to have a few dips on hand as well like this Buffalo Chicken Dip recipe.
- Fruit salad – A fruit salad is a great way to add some color and nutrition to your baby shower spread.
- Sandwiches – You can never go wrong with sandwiches at a party. Just be sure to have a variety of fillings on hand to please everyone. You might even consider having some gluten-free bread available too.
- Cheese, meat and cracker board – While charcuterie boards have a reputation for being expensive, it’s pretty easy to make a budget one that will be just as good. Use deli meats, sliced block cheeses and a variety of crackers .
- Chicken wings – Chicken wings are always a hit, and they’re relatively cheap to make. If you make them plain (without sauce), they will come out crispier and be easier to hold as finger food. Then just offer a variety of sauces as dips and everyone will be happy!
- BBQ Meatballs – This is one of my favorites because they barely take any effort at all to make, like our Chipotle Mango Meatballs. Just throw some in a crockpot with BBQ sauce and forget about them. You can just put the whole pot on the table to serve them from and they will stay warm and delicious. Easy!
- Mini bread pull-aparts – These are so easy to make and only require a few ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Just mix some biscuit dough with shredded cheese, chopped bacon and chives. Then bake according to the package directions. Serve warm and watch them disappear! We have our own recipe for mini bacon cheese pull-aparts too.
- Cookies and brownies – You really can’t go wrong with cookies or brownies. You can make them from scratch or buy them pre-made. If you want to get really fancy, you could even make baby shower themed cookies or brownies.
All of these options are relatively inexpensive, easy to prepare, and sure to be a hit with your guests. So, there’s no need to break the bank when it comes to baby shower food – just get creative and have fun!
What are your favorite baby shower food ideas on a budget? Share them with us in the comments below!
For more great baby shower ideas, be sure to check out our post on DIY baby shower gift ideas and what to say if you’re asked to give a baby shower speech.