How to Host a Nesting Party That Actually Helps You Prepare for Baby

Forget baby showers—this is the ultimate way to get ready for your baby’s arrival (and actually feel prepared). It wasn’t a thing when we were pregnant with our two kids (sadly!), but I so wish it had been. I would’ve killed for someone to fold newborn onesies while I put them away.

Tired of baby showers that leave you with a pile of onesies and no idea how to actually prep for your baby? A nesting party is the game-changer you’ve been missing.

Let’s go through exactly how to host a nesting party that leaves you feeling calm, confident, and actually ready for baby. If you’re craving practical support over cute onesies and party games, keep reading.

What Is a Nesting Party?

A nesting party is a modern, practical twist on the traditional baby shower. Instead of games and gift opening, it’s all about gathering your favorite people to help you actually get ready for your baby’s arrival.

Think organizing the nursery, setting up baby gear, washing those teeny-tiny onesies, and maybe even stocking your freezer with meals.

It’s a great fit for first-time parents who feel overwhelmed by the prep (hi, that was me 🙋🏼‍♀️), second- or third-time parents who already have the baby stuff, or anyone who prefers a hands-on, helpful gathering over the more classic baby shower vibes.

Step 1: Choose Your Nesting Party Style

One of the best things about a nesting party is that you can totally make it your own. Depending on what kind of help you actually need, there are a few different directions you can go. Here are some popular styles to consider:

Classic Nesting Party

This is your all-purpose, baby-prep bonanza. Guests might help you assemble the crib, fold baby clothes, set up the diaper station or breastfeeding station, or organize that mountain of teeny socks and pacifiers. It’s part functional, part bonding—and totally satisfying.

Meal Prep Party

If the thought of figuring out dinner during those sleep-deprived newborn weeks stresses you out (relatable), this one’s a game-changer. Invite friends over to help chop, cook, and freeze a stash of easy meals. You’ll thank yourself later. I would’ve loved to have a freezer full of meals in those newborn days!

Cleaning/Decluttering Party

Sometimes the best gift is a sparkling bathroom and a clutter-free living room. This party focuses on deep cleaning, decluttering, and making physical (and mental!) space for baby. Great for those “I just need everything in order” nesting urges.

Virtual Nesting Party

If your friends and family live far away, don’t worry—they can still join in. Host a virtual gathering and ask loved ones to chip in for takeout, meal delivery, or registry items. You can even do a little show-and-tell of your nursery setup while catching up on Zoom.

Pick one style—or mix and match a few! Whatever helps you feel most supported is the right way to go.

Step 2: Plan the Guest List & Invitations

When it comes to a nesting party, quality over quantity is the name of the game. You’re not throwing a big bash. You’re inviting a handful of trusted people who are down to roll up their sleeves and lend a hand. You know who your village is.

Stick to close friends, family members, or that one ultra-organized friend who lives for label makers and to-do lists. The key is making sure everyone knows this isn’t a sit-and-chat kind of gathering—it’s a hands-on, help-you-get-stuff-done kind of day (with snacks, of course).

For invitations, digital is easiest—Evite, Paperless Post, or even a cute Canva graphic sent via group chat works great. Make it fun but clear. Some ideas:

• “Come help us feather our nest!”
• “We’ve got the baby stuff—now we just need your helping hands!”
• “Let’s get baby-ready together (snacks and good vibes provided).”

Set expectations early, and your guests will show up ready to be the baby-prep dream team you didn’t know you needed.

Step 3: Set Up Your To-Do List & Assign Tasks

This is where the magic happens! To make your nesting party actually productive (and not just a bunch of people standing around asking what to do), you’ll want to have a clear, visual game plan.

Set up a Task Board that guests can reference when they arrive. You can keep it simple with sticky notes on the wall, a whiteboard in the kitchen, or even a shared Trello board if you’re feeling techy.

Break down tasks into categories, and let people pick what they’re comfortable with—some folks love folding baby clothes, others live for vacuuming baseboards.

Here are some common nesting tasks to include:

Nursery Setup

• Assemble crib or bassinet
• Organize diapers, wipes, and changing station
• Hang up clothes or decor

Baby-Proofing Basics

• Cover outlets
• Secure furniture to the wall
• Install cabinet locks or baby gates

Laundry & Organizing

• Wash and sort baby clothes by size
• Fold blankets, burp cloths, and swaddles
• Set up dresser or storage bins

Meal Prepping

• Chop ingredients
• Assemble freezer-friendly meals
• Label and store in individual portions

Cleaning Blitz

• Dust and vacuum
• Deep clean kitchen and bathrooms
• Sanitize baby gear and bottles

Bonus tip: Have music playing and snacks within reach. You’ll be amazed at how much gets done when everyone knows what’s needed—and they’re having a good time doing it.

Step 4: Keep It Fun & Low-Stress

Yes, a nesting party is about getting things done—but that doesn’t mean it can’t be fun, too! Think of it as a productive hangout with built-in snack breaks and good vibes. A little bit of planning can go a long way in keeping the mood light and everyone feeling appreciated.

Set the Vibe with Music

Create a fun, upbeat playlist to keep energy levels high. Think feel-good classics, nostalgic throwbacks, or even a few “baby” themed songs for laughs. Spotify has plenty of pre-made lists if you don’t feel like making your own.

Feed the Troops

No one wants to fold onesies on an empty stomach. Keep food easy and low-maintenance—order pizza, put out a DIY snack board, or have a taco bar if you’re feeling festive. A self-serve drink station with sparkling water, lemonade, or mocktails is a nice touch, too.

Add Some Mini Break Activities

Sneak in a few lighthearted moments to balance out the tasks. These don’t have to be full-on games—just quick, fun ways to laugh and bond:

• Guess the baby’s due date on a calendar
• Write funny or sweet diaper messages for those late-night changes
• “Name That Baby Tune”—play clips of songs with “baby” in the title and see who can guess them first

Your guests will leave feeling like they actually helped—but also had a genuinely good time doing it. Total win.

Step 5: Thoughtful Nesting Party Favors & Thank You Gifts

Your nesting party crew just helped you fold mountains of baby clothes, clean corners you haven’t seen in months, and maybe even stock your freezer with meals—so a little thank-you goes a long way. You don’t need anything fancy or expensive, just something sweet and thoughtful to show your appreciation.

Here are a few easy and meaningful favor ideas your guests will absolutely love:

Mini Self-Care Kits

Tuck a few pampering goodies into a small bag—think face masks, herbal tea, lip balm, or cozy socks. It’s the perfect “thank you for helping me nest—now go relax” gift.

‘Thank You’ Cookies or Custom Chocolates

Homemade or store-bought, a little treat is always appreciated. Wrap up some cookies, chocolates, or even mini jars of local honey or jam with a cute tag.

Seed Packets

A symbolic and budget-friendly option—give out small seed packets with a note that says: “Thanks for helping us grow!” Bonus points if they’re flowers you’ll plant in the yard or herbs your guests can use at home.

Whether you hand them out in person or drop them off later, these little gestures let your people know how much their time and support meant to you.

Why a Nesting Party Might Be the Best Thing You Do Before Baby

When it comes to getting ready for a new baby, a nesting party checks all the boxes. It’s practical, low-key, and way more helpful than a pile of onesies that you’ll baby barely get to wear. Whether you’re organizing the nursery, prepping meals, or just knocking out that growing to-do list, a nesting party turns what could feel overwhelming into something fun—and even meaningful.

More than that, it reminds you that you’re not doing this alone. You have a village. Your people want to help. You just have to invite them in (and maybe offer snacks).

Wondering what to add to your baby prep list before hosting your nesting party? Head over to my post on When to Start Buying Baby Stuff—it’s packed with tips to help you plan with confidence.