Is a Nesting Party the new baby shower?

Are ‘nesting parties’ set to replace the traditional baby shower? Christchurch mama Lexi Davey gives us the low down on this growing trend.

If pretty dresses and cake, guessing games and piles of gifts aren’t your thing (though gifts are still welcome, of course), a nesting party might be more your style? Nesting parties are all about getting down to business and supporting parents-to-be in the most practical and heartfelt way possible. Pinterest reports a surge in interest for these events, with searches for “nesting party” up by 205 percent. Clearly, the idea is resonating with Gen Z and Millennials, who are turning to this hands-on approach to make parenthood a little less overwhelming.

WHAT ARE NESTING PARTIES?

Think of it as a baby shower with a purpose. It’s not just a celebration, it’s a collaboration. Friends and family come together at the host’s home to help prepare for the arrival of their little one. This could mean folding those impossibly tiny baby clothes, setting up nursery furniture, meal-prepping for those sleep-deprived weeks ahead, or even tackling the slightly terrifying task of installing a car seat.

It’s about acts of service rather than just showing up with a gift. With modern parents balancing careers, life, and the impending chaos of newborn care, having a solid support system in place before the baby arrives can be a game-changer.

WHY NESTING PARTIES ARE TRENDING

Pinterest’s data doesn’t lie, search terms like “baby cupboard organising” (up 90 percent) and “nesting party ideas” (up 105 percent) show that people are ready to embrace this shift. It’s practical, meaningful, and, most importantly, supportive. In a time when so many parents feel the weight of doing it all, a nesting party is a reminder that it really does take a village. 

WHAT HAPPENS AT A NESTING PARTY?

Here’s the beauty of it – nesting parties are tailored to the needs of the parents-to-be. Typical activities might include:

+  Washing, folding, and organising newborn clothes and blankets

+  Meal-prepping freezer-friendly dishes for early postpartum weeks

+  Finishing up the nursery with the final decorative touches and furniture assembly

+  Cleaning/setting up essential baby gear, like strollers and bassinets

+  Setting up a changing station or breastfeeding area

+  Packing the hospital bag (because who really knows what to bring?!) 

It’s all about ticking off that overwhelming pre-baby to-do list, with a little help from your friends.

WHY NESTING PARTIES MATTER

Should you skip baby showers with all of the bells and whistles and opt for nesting parties instead?  It depends! It’s entirely up to you.

Parenthood is no small feat, and the postpartum period can be a whirlwind. Nesting parties offer a way to step into this new chapter with a little less stress and a lot more support. They’re practical, purposeful, and proof that we’re better together. However if dressing up and decorating a space beautifully, having games and yummy snacks sounds more up your alley, that’s fine too.

TOP TIPS FOR THROWING A NESTING PARTY

If you’re planning one, here’s how to make it a success...

🔲  Host it at home: this ensures everything gets done in the right space, and parents-to-be don’t have to transport gifts or gear

🔲  Curate the guest list: invite close friends and family who are genuinely ready to lend a hand

🔲  Plan ahead: create a list of tasks to tackle and share it with guests beforehand

🔲  Delegate: divide and conquer! Some can prep meals, others can assemble furniture, and a few can organise baby essentials

🔲  Have supplies ready: stock up on everything you’ll need, from meal containers to cleaning equipment or tools

Lexi Davey is a Christchurch mum of two and founder of nook, Canterbury’s leading online parenting resource, helping families discover the best local events, activities, and expert-backed insights – all in one place. See more at nooknz.com.