Affordable Baby Shower Decorations

When you’re hosting a baby shower, expenses can quickly get out of hand if you aren’t careful! However, you don't want to skimp on creating an attractive setting for the baby shower. That's okay – with a little imagination and creativity, you can have a number of affordable baby shower decorations.

If you haven't already, you might want to think about a theme for the party. This will help you choose your colors and decorations. Some popular baby shower themes include umbrellas, ducks, teddy bears, peas in a pod – which is especially popular for multiples – or just babies in general. Let your theme help you choose a couple of signature colors.

You'll need a primary centerpiece for the main table. At most showers, this is the cake – whether it’s an edible cake or a diaper cake. Most bakeries can incorporate your theme into the cake design. You can also choose a non-edible centerpiece. Following with the theme ideas above, how about using a small upside-down umbrella filled with empty boxes wrapped in pastel shades as a centerpiece. Or, fill a baby bath tub, or even a large bowl, with water and float a few rubber duckies in it. You can also gather a group of baby toys, place them in a classic red wagon or doll cradle, and use that as your centerpiece. Of course, you don’t need to choose a theme that’s baby specific. Think about something that will be special for the mom-to-be and see if that gives you some inspiration.

To get ideas for your shower decorations, spend some time browsing online and at your local baby stores. Of course, you can also go to a party store for ideas, but if you're trying to save money, you may find that the things there are more expensive.

When it comes to plates, cups, and flatware, using your own reusable supplies is certainly less expensive than buying disposables. However, if you do plan to use disposables, remember that not everything has to match. Once the food is on the plate, the plate really doesn't show. In a similar fashion, the table cloth is mostly covered as well. Napkins and cups are more noticeable, so try to make sure that these items – at least – match your theme.

Balloons are a popular and inexpensive decoration. Consider tying them to the party favors and let them do double duty. You can also let other decorations double up as shower favors. For example, in the duck theme above, scatter enough about for each of the guests and invite them each to take one home.

In addition, banners made from baby socks or other baby items clipped to a ribbon are popular decorations that can also serve as a gift for the expectant mom. You can also get a cheap, personalized banner printed at Kinkos or any other printing company.

Finally, start shopping for decorations as early as you can. This will give you an opportunity to shop closeout sales and clearance items, and keep an eye on your local dollar stores. With a little imagination and patience, you can put together some wonderful baby shower decorations without spending lots of money.