🐣 What on Earth Is a Nesting Party? Everything Expecting Parents Need to Know

So, you've heard whispers of nesting parties floating around your NCT group or on TikTok, but you're not entirely sure what they are? Don’t worry—you’re not alone, and you’re in the right place.

Let’s dive into this cozy, practical, and seriously underrated pre-baby trend that’s picking up steam (especially here in the UK).

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🌿 What Is a Nesting Party?

A nesting party is basically the most useful gathering you’ll ever have before your baby arrives.

Instead of traditional baby shower vibes (hello, baby bingo and endless cupcakes), a nesting party is about getting stuff done and preparing your home, and your heart for baby.

It’s a chilled-out day where your nearest and dearest come over to:

• Help set up the nursery

• Assemble the cot, pram, or whatever else is still in boxes

• Wash and fold baby clothes

• Prep freezer meals for those foggy newborn weeks

• Clean or tidy the house (yes please!)

• Pack the hospital bag

• Offer emotional support and calming vibes 💛

• Of course gifts are welcome (Our nappy bag makes a great gift)

Think of it as mutual nesting energy meets your support squad.

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🎉 Nesting Party vs. Baby Shower – What’s the Difference?

If you’re wondering whether you need to choose between the two—good news! You don’t. They serve different purposes, and many parents have both (or even blend them into one).

Here’s a quick comparison:

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Are Nesting Parties a Thing in the UK?

Short answer: Not yet mainstream, but absolutely catching on!

While baby showers have become more popular in the UK in recent years, nesting parties are still a bit of a hidden gem. But with more parents looking for real support rather than another stack of muslins, nesting parties are getting a well-deserved moment.

They’re especially popular with parents who:

• Are into mindful or minimalist living

• Want practical help instead of piles of gifts

• Prefer intimate gatherings over big events

• Don’t love the idea of being the centre of attention at a baby shower

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🎨 Do Nesting Parties Have Themes?

They can—but only if you want them to! Nesting parties are wonderfully low-key, so themes tend to be soft and subtle, like:

• “PJs & Prep” – Everyone comes in comfy clothes and helps sort/clean/build

• “Babies & Brunch” – Think croissants, smoothies, and nursery setup

• “Freezer Fill-Up” – A cook-a-thon to batch prep meals for postpartum days

• “Team Baby” – Get matching T-shirts or aprons and tackle the to-do list together

The vibe is more calm sanctuary than Pinterest-perfect. Light a candle, play some soothing tunes, and keep the snacks flowing.

 

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👯♀️ Who Should You Invite?

Keep it small. This isn’t a show-up-and-socialise event—it’s a help-out-and-hug-it-out kind of day. Invite the people you trust the most—those who won’t judge your laundry pile or ask if you’re ready (🙃).

Think:

• Your closest friends

• A supportive sibling or two

• Mum/dad if they’re helpful, not stressy

• Your birth partner or doula

• Anyone who makes you feel calm, capable, and loved

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🌟 Why Nesting Parties Are So Brilliant

Honestly, they just make sense. Here’s why:

• You actually tick off your baby prep to-do list ✅

• You get real, practical support

• It reduces last-minute stress

• You feel emotionally held and surrounded by love

• It’s more eco- and wallet-friendly than traditional showers

• It focuses on you as a parent, not just the baby

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Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a first-time parent or prepping for baby number three, a nesting party could be the game-changer you didn’t know you needed.

It’s not about presents or parties—it’s about presence and preparation. 💛