Bringing a baby into the world is exciting—but also overwhelming. Between setting up the nursery, organizing tiny clothes, and figuring out where everything goes, the to-do list can feel endless. That’s where a nesting party comes in!
Instead of tackling everything alone, a nesting party turns prep work into a fun and supportive gathering. Friends and family come together to help check off your to-dos while celebrating this exciting time with you.
Think:
✅ Organizing baby clothes
✅ Assembling furniture
✅ Baby-proofing the house
✅ Stocking diaper stations
✅ Meal prepping for postpartum
✅ Deep cleaning & organization
It’s a hands-on way to prepare for baby while soaking in love and support from your village.
Nesting Party Basics
When to Host:
4-6 weeks before your due date—close enough to be productive but not so close that you’re scrambling.
Who Hosts:
A friend, family member, or even the parents-to-be themselves. The goal? A zero-stress, all-support atmosphere.
Why It’s Worth It:
- Hands-on help instead of just gifts.
- A low-pressure way to connect with loved ones.
- A major sanity-saver before baby arrives.
A more organized, baby-ready home for those first chaotic weeks.
How to Plan the Perfect Nesting Party
A well-planned nesting party can make all the difference in helping parents-to-be feel more prepared and supported before their little one arrives.
1. Choose Your Party Vibe
Creating the right atmosphere for your nesting party sets the tone for a fun and productive day. Think about what will make the experience enjoyable for both you and your guests.
Do you want a laid-back, cozy gathering with comfy clothes and music playing in the background? Or would you prefer a themed event that makes the day feel extra special?
Some ideas to consider:
🌿 Ready, Set, Nest! – Inspired by nature, this theme includes soft, cozy vibes with subtle birdhouse and feather decorations.
🍼 Tiny To-Do Team – Think teamwork and checklists! Guests are given specific roles to help get everything done efficiently.
🎨 DIY & Declutter – A perfect choice if you want a hands-on experience with guests helping organize baby essentials while also creating cute keepsakes.
🍲 Meal Prep Madness – If meal prepping for postpartum is a priority, this theme turns the day into a fun batch-cooking session where guests help prepare and freeze meals.
💡 Bonus Tip: Setting up a playlist and offering light refreshments can enhance the experience, making it feel like a true celebration rather than just a work session.
Decide if you want a cozy, casual hangout or a Pinterest-worthy theme. Either way, keep it fun and relaxed.
2. Make a To-Do List That Actually Helps
A well-organized to-do list ensures that your nesting party is productive and stress-free. Focus on meaningful tasks that will have the biggest impact on preparing for baby’s arrival.
Here’s what to prioritize:
✔️ Assemble furniture (crib, bassinet, swing, changing table, glider) – Having everything set up in advance makes life easier once baby arrives.
✔️ Sort baby clothes (by size & season) – Folding, hanging, and organizing by age group saves so much time later.
✔️ Stock diaper caddies (one for every room) – Prepping these stations ensures easy access to essentials when you need them most.
✔️ Declutter & baby-proof – Secure furniture, cover outlets, and create a safe space for when baby starts exploring.
✔️ Organize bottles & feeding essentials – Set up a designated area for bottles, pacifiers, and bibs to streamline feeding time.
✔️ Deep clean high-touch areas (nursery, kitchen, bathroom) – A fresh and sanitized environment is a must before baby arrives.
✔️ Meal prep for postpartum (freeze casseroles, soups, and snacks) – Having ready-to-eat meals is a lifesaver during those first few sleep-deprived weeks.
✔️ Set up a cozy nursing or feeding station – A comfortable spot with pillows, blankets, and water nearby makes feeding sessions much more enjoyable.
✔️ Prep a hospital bag & postpartum care station – Pack essentials for labor and recovery, plus set up a station with everything needed for post-birth comfort.
💡 Bonus Tip: Break big tasks into smaller steps and delegate specific jobs to guests based on their strengths. Small wins add up to big progress!
3. Invite Your Crew
Choosing the right people for your nesting party makes all the difference. Keep it small and personal—just close friends and family who want to help.
Consider inviting those who are reliable, supportive, and genuinely excited to lend a hand.
💡 Think about roles: Do you have a handy friend who loves assembling furniture? A family member who thrives on organizing? Matching tasks with strengths makes the day more efficient and enjoyable.
📢 How to invite: A simple text works, but you can make it fun with themed invites:
- “Help us feather our nest!”
- “Prep + Celebrate = Best Day Ever!”
💌 Mention what to expect: Let guests know they’ll be helping with specific tasks but that it will also be a time for food, fun, and connection. This sets clear expectations and ensures everyone comes ready to pitch in!
4. Gather Supplies Beforehand
Being prepared with the right supplies ensures that your nesting party runs smoothly and efficiently.
Having everything set up in advance means guests can jump right into helping without unnecessary delays.
Here’s a checklist of essential supplies to gather ahead of time:
🧹 Cleaning supplies – Wipes, disinfectant, trash bags, paper towels, and gloves for deep cleaning and decluttering.
🛠️ Tools – Screwdrivers, Allen wrenches, hammers, and batteries for assembling furniture and baby gear.
🍼 Storage bins & organizers – Baskets, labels, and drawer dividers to keep baby essentials neatly arranged.
🍿 Snacks & drinks – Light refreshments like fruit, granola bars, and mocktails to keep everyone energized.
🥄 Meal prep essentials – Freezer bags, labels, aluminum pans, measuring cups, and recipe cards for preparing postpartum meals.
🪑 Extra seating & workspaces – Folding chairs and tables to create a comfortable setup for guests tackling different tasks.
📝 Task lists & instructions – Clear checklists to guide guests on what needs to be done, making the process smooth and efficient.
💡 Bonus Tip: Assign specific supply stations so guests can easily find what they need. Group cleaning supplies together, have a designated area for tools, and keep refreshments within easy reach to maintain momentum throughout the party.
What Happens at a Nesting Party?
A nesting party is a mix of celebration and productivity, creating a warm and supportive environment for the parents-to-be. Guests come together to help prepare the home while enjoying quality time with loved ones. Here’s what to expect:
💡 Mom-to-Be’s Role: The mom-to-be should focus on relaxing and enjoying the company of her guests. She can delegate tasks, provide input on organization, and soak in the love and support without feeling pressured to do the heavy lifting.
🛠️ Tasks & Activities: Guests will help with practical tasks like assembling furniture, organizing baby essentials, meal prepping, and even tackling last-minute deep cleaning. Some hosts also include optional fun activities like decorating onesies or writing advice cards for the parents-to-be.
👶 Are Men Invited? Absolutely! Nesting parties are all about creating a strong support system, so partners, dads, brothers, and any friends who want to contribute are welcome to join in the fun.
🎶 Atmosphere: Keep the vibe light and engaging—play music, offer plenty of snacks, and create a welcoming space where everyone feels comfortable pitching in. Whether it’s a structured event with assigned tasks or a casual, come-and-go gathering, the goal is to make it an enjoyable and stress-free experience.
Sample Nesting Party Agenda (3-4 Hours)
1️⃣ Welcome + Snacks 🍪 → Set the tone with treats, drinks, and a warm welcome. Introduce the plan for the day so everyone knows what to expect.
2️⃣ Divide & Conquer 🏡 → Assign tasks based on strengths. Some guests can assemble furniture, others can organize baby essentials, and a few can focus on meal prep or cleaning.
3️⃣ Take a Breather 🎉 → Midway through, take a fun break! Play a quick game like baby trivia, swap parenting advice, or do a simple activity like decorating onesies.
4️⃣ Final Touches & Wrap-Up 🏠 → Guests can finish up remaining tasks, double-check organization, and do any last-minute tidying.
5️⃣ Thank You & Celebration 📸 → Snap a group photo, hand out small thank-you gifts, and take a moment to celebrate all the progress made. The parents-to-be can share their gratitude and enjoy a relaxing close to the event.
Nesting Party Food & Drinks
Food is a key part of keeping energy levels up and making the nesting party enjoyable. Opt for easy, crowd-friendly snacks that guests can grab while working on tasks. Consider setting up a refreshment station with both sweet and savory options.
🥪 Mini sandwiches or sliders – Simple, bite-sized, and easy to eat on the go.
🥕 Veggie trays with dip – A healthy and refreshing snack option.
🧁 Cupcakes or baby-themed cookies – A sweet treat to add a festive touch.
🍹 Fun mocktails for the mom-to-be – Keep it fun with colorful, refreshing drinks.
🥣 Freezer-friendly meal samples – Let guests sample a few prepped meals that will be stocked for postpartum.
💡 Bonus Tip: Consider setting up a DIY snack or drink station where guests can customize their plates. A “build-your-own sandwich” or “mocktail bar” adds a fun, interactive element!
Fun Nesting Party Activities (Optional but Fun!)
Adding a few fun activities can make the nesting party even more enjoyable and memorable.
Whether they are interactive games, sentimental keepsakes, or relaxing activities, these moments will make the day feel like a true celebration.
🎨 Onesie Decorating → Guests create cute, custom baby outfits using fabric markers, iron-on patches, or stencils. These make adorable keepsakes for the baby!
🍼 Baby Trivia → A quick and lighthearted quiz on fun baby facts, pregnancy myths, or famous baby names. Winner gets a small prize!
✍️ Advice Cards → Let guests write down words of wisdom, encouragement, or funny parenting tips for the parents-to-be. Store them in a keepsake box for a sweet memory.
🍲 Batch Cooking Session → Turn meal prepping into a team activity! Guests help prepare and freeze easy meals for the postpartum period.
📸 Photo Booth or Memory Book → Set up a simple photo booth with props or create a memory book where guests can leave notes and polaroid pictures.
🎁 Baby Name Suggestions Jar → If the parents haven’t settled on a name yet, have guests write fun or meaningful suggestions on slips of paper and place them in a jar.
💡 Bonus Tip: Keep activities optional! Guests should feel free to participate as much or as little as they want, ensuring a relaxed and fun atmosphere.
Nesting Party Gifts That Actually Help
Practical gifts can make a huge difference for new parents, helping them transition smoothly into life with a newborn. Instead of traditional baby shower presents, consider bringing items that provide real support and reduce stress in the postpartum period.
📦 Storage bins & organizers – Perfect for keeping baby essentials neat and accessible.
🎟️ Meal delivery gift cards – A lifesaver for those busy first weeks when cooking feels impossible.
🍼 Diapers & wipes – You can never have too many! Opt for various sizes to last beyond the newborn stage.
💌 DIY Coupons for babysitting or meals – Offering your time and help is one of the best gifts you can give.
🧽 Cleaning service gift certificate – A professional cleaning session can be a much-needed relief for exhausted parents.
👶 Subscription services – Consider diaper delivery, baby book clubs, or postpartum meal subscriptions for ongoing support.
💤 Self-care essentials – A cozy robe, herbal teas, or a postpartum recovery kit can make a world of difference.
📖 Parenting books or audiobooks – Choose practical, uplifting reads for the new parents to enjoy at their own pace.
💡 Bonus Tip: If you’re unsure what the parents-to-be need most, consider pooling funds with other guests for a larger, high-impact gift like a stroller, car seat, or housecleaning service.
How to Thank Your Helpers
Expressing gratitude to those who pitched in at your nesting party makes everyone feel valued and appreciated. A small gesture can go a long way in showing your thanks!
Small, thoughtful gestures go a long way!
🎁 Mini candles or succulents – Attach a tag that says, “Thanks for helping us nest!”
🍪 Homemade cookies or treats – Packaged in a cute box or mason jar for a sweet takeaway.
💌 A heartfelt thank-you note – A personalized message expressing how much their help meant to you.
🧼 Self-care gifts – Mini lotions, bath salts, or face masks as a way to pamper your guests.
🎟️ Gift cards – A small coffee shop or local bakery gift card as an extra token of appreciation.
📸 Group photo memory – Take a group picture at the party and send a framed copy or digital version with a thank-you message.
💡 Bonus Tip: If you have extra hands-on helpers who went above and beyond, consider inviting them over for a casual post-baby visit with a cup of coffee or tea as an extra thank-you!
Troubleshooting Common Challenges
Even with careful planning, nesting parties can sometimes come with a few bumps along the way. Here are some common challenges and how to handle them:
❌ Too many tasks? → Prioritize a few key areas. Focus on the most important tasks first, and break them into smaller, manageable steps. Small wins matter!
❌ Too many guests? → Keep it intimate—just your closest circle. If you have a larger group, divide them into teams with specific responsibilities to keep things organized and efficient.
❌ Running out of time? → Start with quick and easy wins like sorting clothes or setting up diaper stations to build momentum. If bigger projects take too long, don’t stress—schedule a follow-up day for finishing touches.
❌ Guests hesitant to help? → Make it feel fun and rewarding! Play upbeat music, offer prizes or small thank-you gifts, and keep the atmosphere relaxed and engaging.
❌ Limited space? → If space is tight, set up task zones in different rooms to avoid overcrowding. Utilize vertical storage and foldable furniture to maximize efficiency.
❌ Parents-to-be feeling overwhelmed? → Encourage them to relax and delegate. Set up a cozy spot where they can sit back, provide guidance, and enjoy the experience while others take on the heavy lifting.
💡 Bonus Tip: If something doesn’t go as planned, don’t stress! The goal of a nesting party is progress, not perfection.
Post-Party Checklist for Parents-to-Be
✅ Return borrowed tools and supplies – Ensure everything borrowed from friends and family is returned in good condition.
✅ Make a final shopping list for last-minute baby items – Identify any remaining must-haves before the baby arrives.
✅ Organize finished areas to maximize efficiency – Take time to arrange and optimize storage spaces for ease of use.
✅ Schedule a day for personal relaxation before baby arrives – Take a break, enjoy a self-care day, or have a quiet moment before the big day.
✅ Send thank-you messages to guests – A simple text, card, or small token of appreciation goes a long way.
✅ Double-check hospital bag and postpartum care setup – Ensure that everything is packed and ready to go for delivery and recovery.
✅ Take photos of the finished spaces – Capture the organized nursery and other prepped areas to celebrate progress and share with loved ones.
✅ Have a final walkthrough of baby-proofing – Make sure outlets are covered, sharp edges are cushioned, and safety measures are in place.
💡 Bonus Tip: Keep a small notebook or app handy to jot down any last-minute reminders, thoughts, or tasks that pop up before baby’s arrival!
Why a Nesting Party is a Must for Parents-to-Be
A nesting party isn’t just about crossing things off a list—it’s about feeling ready and supported before baby arrives.
It’s a chance to soak in love, laughter, and a little less stress before the wild ride of parenthood begins.
So go ahead—plan the party, gather your people, and make it a day to remember!