The Ultimate Baby Shower Planner Guide for Expecting Parents (2025) 🎉

Whether you’re a hands-on planner or passing the baton to your BFFs or mother-in-law, one thing’s for sure—your baby shower is a moment to cherish. This ultimate guide is here to make the planning process smooth, fun, and stress-free for everyone involved.

From deciding who’s hosting to picking themes and venues, we’ve covered every detail so this celebration truly feels like yours. Let’s get started!

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Step 1: Form a Planning Committee 🤝

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Before diving into the details, let’s figure out the who and the how. Remember, you don’t have to do this alone (unless you want to!).

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Who Is Supposed to Host a Baby Shower?

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Traditionally, a close friend or family member takes the lead, but it’s 2025—there are no rules! Whether you want to host it yourself, delegate to your crew, or collaborate with a partner, decide early and make roles clear.

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Set a Budget

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Decide how much to spend and allocate funds for essentials like the venue, food, decor, and games.

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Baby Shower Budget Essentials 💸

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Here are some of the items you might want to add to your baby shower budget:

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Venue

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• Renting a location (e.g., cafes, parks, event spaces)
• Permits for outdoor spaces

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Invitations

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• Digital invitations (free or premium designs)
• Printed invitations and postage

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Food & Drinks

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• Catering services
• DIY food ingredients
• Cake or dessert table items
• Mocktails or non-alcoholic beverages
• Food labels

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Decorations

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• Themed decor (e.g., balloons, banners, tablecloths)
• Floral arrangements
• DIY materials for crafts like centerpieces

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Games & Activities

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• Game supplies (e.g., cards, prizes, materials for DIY stations)
• Photo booth props and backdrops
• Polaroid film or hiring a photographer

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Party Favors

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• Personalized gifts for guests (e.g., candles, mini plants, treats)
• Packaging for favors (e.g., bags, boxes, or ribbons)

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Rentals & Equipment

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• Tables, chairs, and linens
• Serving ware, plates, cups, and utensils
• Audio/visual equipment

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Miscellaneous

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• Thank-you cards for post-event gratitude
• Transportation (if hosting at a rented venue)
• Unexpected costs or last-minute additions

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💡Tip! Spend money on what's most important to you. Is it the food? The activities? The aesthetics? Use what you love to guide your budget.

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Will You Have Multiple Showers?

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If your village is big or spread out, multiple showers are totally normal. Split by location, group, or vibe (e.g., a casual friends’ shower and a formal family-only event).  

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Step 2: Pick the Date 📅

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Timing is everything! Most parents-to-be aim for 28–32 weeks, when energy levels are high and the bump is picture-perfect.

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Questions to Consider

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Guest Availability

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• Who Are Your VIPs? Which friends or family members absolutely need to be there?
• Are There Conflicting Events? Check for holidays, weddings, or other big events that might overlap.

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Venue Availability

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• When Is Your Preferred Venue Free? Popular venues book up quickly, especially on weekends.
• Does Your Venue Have Seasonal Restrictions? Some outdoor venues may only be open during certain months or require special permits.

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Weather Considerations

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• What’s the Weather Like? If you’re planning an outdoor shower, consider the season and prepare for rain or heat.
• Backup Plan: Do you have a plan B in case of unexpected weather changes?

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Your Comfort

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• How Are You Feeling? Plan for a time when you’ll have energy and feel comfortable—typically between 28–32 weeks.
• Do You Have Other Commitments? Avoid scheduling your shower too close to other major life events like moving, weddings, or holidays.

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Travel Guests

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• Will Guests Need to Travel? If so, provide enough notice to book flights and accommodations.
• Do You Need to Accommodate Their Schedules? Check if certain dates work better for out-of-town guests.

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Theme or Seasonal Tie-Ins

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• Does Your Theme Align With the Date? For example, a winter wonderland theme makes more sense in December than April.
• Seasonal Celebrations: Is your date close to a holiday or event you can incorporate into your theme?

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💡 Fun Fact: Baby showers date back to ancient Egypt, where celebrations welcomed both the baby and new mom into society!

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Step 3: Build Your Guest List ✍️

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Time to decide who’s joining the party! Start with your must-haves, then expand to include coworkers, extended family, or friends of friends based on the event’s vibe.

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Key Considerations:

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• Co-ed or Women-Only? Traditional showers are women-only, but co-ed gatherings are becoming popular!
• What About Children? Decide if the event will be adults-only or family-friendly.
• Virtual Guests: Include loved ones who can’t attend in person with a virtual or hybrid option.
• Group Dynamics: If certain groups don’t mix well, separate events might be the way to go.

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💡 Fun Fact: In the Victorian era, baby showers were known as "stork teas," hosted in the afternoon with tea and light refreshments.

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Step 4: Choose a Theme 🎨

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Now the fun begins! Your theme sets the tone for your shower, so make it personal. These popular themes are loved by Villie families:

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Timeless & Elegant Themes

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Sophisticated options for a classic vibe.

• Classic Storybook: Like Winnie the Pooh or Peter Rabbit, with soft pastels and vintage details. 📚
• Under the Stars: A celestial celebration with twinkling lights and deep blues. 🌌
• How About Cute Baby Elephants? Can't go wrong there!

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Whimsical & Fun Themes

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Playful, cheerful, and full of joy.

• Rainbows & Sunshine: Bright, bold, and full of positivity! 🌈
• Baby Safari Adventure: Jungle animals, lush greenery, and earthy tones. 🦒🌿
• Iconic Moms: Have your tribe dress the part!
• Holy Cow: This theme is cute and quirky!
• Taco 'Bout a Baby: For the moms-to-be who love a good taco.
• Unicorn: Nothing is more magical than a unicorn!
• Get Groovy: Can't go wrong with the 70s!

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Seasonal Themes

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Celebrate the time of year with seasonal flair.

• Winter Wonderland: Glittering snowflakes and hot cocoa bars. ❄️☕
• Spring Blooms: Fresh flowers, pastel colors, and garden vibes.
• Channel summer with a Tropical Bliss theme.‍
• Look to the month for inspiration: January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December
• Feeling Spooky? Go traditional with a Halloween theme, or more funky with a Mummy theme.

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Trendy & Modern Themes

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For those who love a fresh, stylish approach.

• Boho Chic: Macrame, pampas grass, and warm neutrals. 🌾
• Taylor Swift-Inspired: Play off her “Eras Tour” for a music-themed shower. 🎶
• A Gender Neutral theme is perfect if you are keeping some things a surprise.

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Step 5: Find the Perfect Venue 🏡

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Your venue sets the stage for your celebration! Here are some top picks based on vibe and style:

Outdoor Venues

• Botanical gardens
• Parks with picnic setups
• Beachside gatherings

Unique & Playful

• Animal sanctuaries or farms
• Tea rooms with vintage decor
• Pottery or art studios

Budget-Friendly Options

• Backyard celebrations
• Community centers
• Friends’ or family members’ homes
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💡Want more ideas? Check out our ultimate list of baby shower venues.

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‍Step 6: Invitations 💌

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Set the tone with invites that reflect your theme! Go digital for eco-friendly convenience or printed for keepsakes.

Don’t Forget to Include:

• Date, time, and location (or virtual link).
• A link to your Baby Page (for registries, diaper funds, and details).
• RSVP instructions and deadlines.

💡 Pro Tip: Add a QR code to printed invites that links directly to your Baby Page.

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Step 7: Food & Drinks 🍴

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No celebration is complete without delicious bites, sweet treats, and refreshing drinks! Your menu can reflect your theme, season, or simply what you and your guests love. Here are ideas to inspire your baby shower spread:

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Savory Food Options 🍽️

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Keep it simple and crowd-pleasing with finger foods or small bites that are easy to enjoy while mingling.

1. Mini Sliders: Classic cheeseburgers, pulled pork, or veggie patties on soft buns.
2. Charcuterie Cups: Individual servings of meats, cheeses, fruits, and crackers for easy snacking.
3. Seasonal Salads: Think fresh caprese with basil and balsamic glaze or a crisp citrus and arugula salad.
4. Savory Pastries: Mini quiches, spanakopita, or puff pastry bites stuffed with cheese and herbs.
5. Skewers or Kabobs: Grilled chicken, shrimp, or veggie kabobs are fun, mess-free options.

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Desserts & Sweet Treats 🍩

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Skip the traditional cake if it’s not your style and wow your guests with a variety of playful desserts.

1. Cupcake Towers: Decorate with themed toppers to match your shower vibe.
2. Donut Wall: Arrange a mix of flavors on a display wall for a fun, grab-and-go treat.
3. Themed Sugar Cookies: Decorate with baby bottles, onesies, or safari animals depending on your theme.
4. Mini Cheesecakes: Serve them in individual cups or as small bites with fruit toppings.
5. Chocolate Fondue Station: Provide skewers of marshmallows, fruits, and pretzels for dipping.

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Drinks & Mocktails 🥂

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Whether your shower is dry or you’re mixing things up, these options will have everyone raising a glass:

1. Infused Water Station: Flavor with fruits like citrus, berries, and mint for a hydrating and colorful option.
2. Non-Alcoholic Sangria: Mix sparkling water with grape juice, fresh fruit, and a splash of lime.
3. Mocktail Bar: Provide ingredients for guests to create their own, like ginger beer, lemonade, and fresh herbs.
4. Gruvi Non-Alcoholic Options: Offer bubbly rosé, lagers, or IPA for an alcohol-free yet celebratory vibe.
5. Hot Beverage Station (Seasonal): For fall or winter showers, think hot cocoa bars or spiced apple cider.

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Step 8: Plan Baby Shower Games & Activities 🎲

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A great baby shower is all about the fun! Keep the energy up with engaging games and activities that bring your guests together and create lasting memories. Whether you’re sticking to classics or adding a creative twist, these ideas will make your shower unforgettable:

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Classic Games 🍼

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Sometimes, you just can’t beat the classics! These tried-and-true games guarantee laughs and a little friendly competition:

1. Baby Bingo: Guests fill out bingo cards with common baby-related gifts as you open presents.
2. Don’t Say Baby: Hand out clothespins or ribbons and challenge guests not to say “baby” throughout the event—last one standing wins!
3. Guess the Baby Food: Provide unlabeled jars of baby food and have guests guess the flavors—surprisingly tricky and hilarious!

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Interactive Fun 🎨

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Want to encourage creativity or heartfelt moments? Try these hands-on activities that everyone can enjoy:

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1. Onesie-Decorating Station: Set up fabric markers or iron-on decals for guests to create custom baby clothes.
2. Advice Cards for Parents-to-Be: Guests write down words of wisdom, funny parenting hacks, or wishes for the baby.
3. Gender Reveal Game: Guests predict the baby’s gender by casting votes—and contributing to your diaper fund! It’s quick to set up and adds an exciting twist to the shower.

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Villie’s Game-Changing Touch 💜

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No baby shower is complete without Villie’s Guess Who Game! 🎉 This interactive and virtual option allows guests to guess who the baby will take after—Mom or Dad—while contributing to your baby fund. It’s a perfect way to keep your village connected, near or far! 💜

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💡 Looking for even more inspiration? Check out our Baby Shower Games Guide!

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Photo-Worthy Moments 📸

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Capture the memories with dedicated photo activities that let your guests (and you!) shine:

1. Photo Booth: Set up a backdrop with themed props for Instagram-ready pics.
2. Polaroid Station: Guests snap instant keepsakes to take home and leave one for your memory book.
3. Hire a Photographer: Relax and let a pro handle the picture-taking so you can stay present and enjoy the day.

💡 Pro Tip: Upload your photo album to your Baby Page to share the memories with guests who couldn’t make it!

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Step 10: Pick Thoughtful Favors 🎁

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A heartfelt favor is the perfect way to thank your guests for celebrating this special moment with you. Choose something meaningful, fun, or practical that ties into your shower’s theme. Here are a few ideas to inspire you:

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Nature-Inspired Favors 🌿

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• Mini Succulents or Plants: A sweet, lasting keepsake that guests can take home and nurture—just like you’ll nurture your little one!
• Seed Packets: Personalized packets with “Grow with Love” labels make a charming and budget-friendly gift.

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Personalized Touches 🖋️

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• Candles with Custom Labels: Add a message like, “A little light for our little bundle.”
• Mini Bottles of Honey or Jam: Tie with a tag that says, “Sweet as can bee!”
• Bath Bombs or Soaps: Choose soothing scents and wrap them in colors that match your theme.

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Edible Delights 🍪

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• Themed Sugar Cookies: Baby bottles, onesies, or animals decorated to perfection.
• Macarons or Cake Pops: Package these elegant treats in clear boxes tied with a ribbon.
• Mini Donut Bags: Add a cheeky note like, “Thanks a hole bunch!”

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💡 Pro Tip: Incorporate your favors into the decor by displaying them on a beautiful table or arranging them as part of the place settings.

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What to Wear? 👗

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Your baby shower is your moment to shine, so pick an outfit that makes you feel fabulous, comfortable, and confident. Whether you’re channeling ultra-glam vibes or keeping it chic and simple, here’s how to nail your look:

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Match the Theme

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• Playful and Whimsical Themes: Flowy dresses with fun prints or pastel colors are perfect for garden parties, safari vibes, or rainbow celebrations.
• Timeless and Elegant Themes: Go for classic silhouettes in neutrals or jewel tones for a polished look.

💡 Pro Tip: Matching your outfit to the theme ties everything together beautifully—and makes for cohesive photos!

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Stay Comfortable

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• Prioritize breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, or stretchy knits for all-day ease.
• Opt for comfy footwear (think stylish flats or block heels) if you’ll be on your feet mingling.

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Inspiration from the Pros

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Take notes from maternity style icons like Rihanna, who redefined bump fashion with bold, statement-making looks. Need ideas? Check out our guide to Rihanna-inspired maternity fashion for daring yet practical options.

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Don’t Forget the Undergarments

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The right underwear makes all the difference. Whether you need seamless shapewear or a supportive bra, check out our maternity underwear tips for the ultimate comfort without sacrificing style.

💡 Villie Tip: Whatever you wear, make sure it feels like you. When you’re confident and comfortable, you’ll glow even brighter—and that’s what really matters!

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Plan a Baby Shower and Mobilize Your Village with Villie 💜

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Your baby shower is just the beginning, and Villie is here to help you build a connected, supportive village for every step of your parenting journey.

• Create a FREE Baby Page: Bring loved ones together, near or far, with your Villie Baby Page. Share updates, host games, and keep everything organized in one place.
• Track RSVPs with Ease: Manage your guest list effortlessly and send reminders as needed.
• Interactive Games: Villie’s Guess Who Game 💜 brings virtual fun and keeps everyone engaged.
• Registry Hub: Simplify gift-giving by combining registries from multiple stores into one easy link.
• Photo Sharing: Upload event photos and videos so everyone can relive the fun!

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With Villie, your baby shower is just the start of a seamless and joyful parenting journey.

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Final Thoughts & Your Next Step

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Planning a baby shower should be as fun and magical as the celebration itself. 🌟 With these baby shower games, you’ll create unforgettable memories for the mom-to-be and all her loved ones.

Need more help bringing your vision to life? Villie’s AI-powered Baby Shower Planner is here to guide you every step of the way! From themes and games to decor and food ideas, it’s your ultimate tool for creating a stress-free, personalized shower that everyone will love.

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✨ Try the AI-Powered Baby Shower Planner today—it’s free, easy, and oh-so fun!

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