Budgets and beautiful venues don’t go together, which is why it’s a big bonus if you’ve got a backyard that’s suitable for parties, like baby showers. Instead of a stiff environment with strangers and curfews, you get to enjoy your event in the privacy of your own home, where you can dance and laugh comfortably, move tables wherever you want them to be, and save on all costs. With some creativity, and maybe this list of backyard baby shower ideas on a budget, you can host the celebration of the year. And that’s without breaking the bank!
1. DIY Balloon Arch
Balloon arches are all the hype right now and it’s even better if you can make one yourself. This one’s more of a decor idea than anything else, but it makes a big difference. You need a balloon strip kit, a hand pump, and balloons in soft colors that match the baby shower theme. Mix different sizes and colors for texture and to make the arch appear fuller and more dynamic. Secure the arch to a fence, pergola, or a simple PVC frame at the entrance, over the gift table, or as a backdrop to the guest of honor’s chair. Since the party is going to be outdoors, it’s a good idea to use fishing line or garden hooks to anchor the structure down so it doesn’t float away with the slightest hint of wind.
2. Potluck Style Catering
There’s no better way to save on catering costs than a potluck dinner. Unless you don’t serve any food at all, of course. Potluck is like splitting the bill at a restaurant, but with an intimate twist. Ask guests to bring their favorite appetizer, salad, dessert, or snack to create a buffet filled with homemade specialties that you don’t have to make yourself. If you’re worried about ending up with 5 different pasta salads and no desserts, provide a sign up list to keep things organized. You can arrange the food on a long table with cake stands, wooden boards, cutlery and crockery, and labels to make dishing up easier for everybody.
3. Outdoor Mocktail Bar
Since it’s a baby shower, not a bachelorette, the drinks should probably be alcohol-free. But don’t let that stop you from adding a playful twist with a DIY cocktail bar, or a mocktail bar in this case. Set up a simple table with a few glass dispensers and colorful garnishes to create a cheerful drink station where guests can mix their own mocktails. Choose sparkling lemonade, berry spritzers, or citrus mint coolers as the base and fill some dispensers or bowls with fruit slices, mint leaves, and berries. Provide some cups and striped paper straws and let the fun begin.
4. Printable Party Games
There’s no need for expensive party games and party planners. With the help of Pinterest and a printer, you can entertain your guests without spending any money. Print a sheet on cardstock or colored paper for each guest to play games like baby trivia, baby name scramble, and birth weight and date predictions. It can also be as simple as a word search or as complicated as guessing baby items in different languages. Give out small prizes like candles, chocolates, or bath bombs for extra motivation and spread the games out throughout the event to keep the party alive.
5. Backyard Brunch Setup
Muffins, fruit salad, yogurt parfaits, and mini quiches can all work out much cheaper than regular party foods. They’re also easier to prepare and perfect for casual grazing while chatting over coffee. Add a coffee station with flavored syrups or creamers and a pitcher or two of fresh juice and it’s a real brunch. You can decorate the tables with light linens, fresh flowers, and cheerful pastels and allow the sunlight to really bring out the theme.
6. Candlelit Evening Shower
Baby showers are usually in the morning or early afternoon, right? There’s no reason to host it during sunlight hours because a candlelit dinner with loved ones can be even better. Use some battery-powered candles for safety, or don’t. Pair them with string lights hanging from tree to tree all over the backyard and serve warm drinks like tea, hot cocoa, or cider. You can still play games and do activities like with any other baby shower, but this one’s evening glow adds a more intimate atmosphere.
7. DIY Building Block Decorating Station
Activities and baby showers go hand in hand, but it’s usually a one-time thing with no lasting effect. However, this one’s smart because it involves something that you’ll keep afterwards. Purchase some plain wooden blocks or make a couple yourself with brandering cut into cubes. Add non-toxic markers or small paint pens to the mix and let guests draw pictures, add the baby’s name, or create a full alphabet. You can use the blocks as nursery decor or future toys, but remember to let the guests add their names so you can look back at the special day.
8. DIY Vest Decorating Station
This is another activity that your guests can do that’ll benefit the baby. Buy a couple of plain baby vests, which is something the baby needs anyway so it doesn’t count as a baby shower expense. Hang them in a small makeshift wardrobe or fold and stack them on a table in a central location with fabric markers and iron-on patches. Guests can create sweet messages and unique designs, giving the baby a bunch of personalized outfits to wear once they’re born.
9. Bookshelf For Book Signings
Bring a bookshelf out or stack some crates near the entrance where guests can leave their favorite children’s book. A book is much better than a card and if you leave pens nearby, they can sign the first page so it serves as a keepsake and proof of everybody that was there for the baby even before they were born. It doesn’t cost anything, gives the new baby a library filled with memories, well wishes, and bedtime stories, and it creates an experience that guests will be talking about for years.
