Pregnant? Consider a Nesting Party
A fun, helpful way to prepare your home for a new baby
A fun, helpful way to prepare your home for a new baby
A baby on the way is a cause for celebration, and nesting parties are one of newest ways to gather with family and friends to get ready for the new addition.
“Nesting parties” take their name from the term “nesting instinct,” which often describes the urge to prepare a cozy, functional environment for a new beginning — in this case, a baby.
Unlike a baby shower in which guests bring gifts and play games, a nesting party involves actively helping parents prepare their home for the baby’s arrival by completing hands-on tasks like setting up the nursery, assembling furniture, organizing clothes, installing a car seat and preparing meals for the first few weeks after delivery.
Why have a nesting party?
Nesting parties offer multiple benefits. Preparing for a new baby can feel overwhelming, especially for first-time parents. These parties bring loved ones together to share tasks that might take hours or days to complete alone. Instead of viewing tasks as chores, they become part of a shared experience with laughter, conversation and refreshments.
In addition to helping with the practical needs of bringing a baby home, a nesting party helps create a sense of community and support for the mom-to-be. Pregnancy can be a highly emotional experience; having the assistance and encouragement of trusted friends and family can help ease stress and anxiety.
“So many parents are trying to balance the demands of work and family, and the gifts of time and assistance may be more valuable than any present,” says Isabella Hanulik, MD, a pediatrician at Scripps Clinic Mission Valley. “Nesting parties offer a perfect mix of functional help and emotional support for expectant parents and allows guests to contribute in meaningful ways.”
How to plan a nesting party
1. Create the task list
Prepare a written list of tasks well before the party and include any materials or tools your guests will need to complete them. Ensure you have supplies before the party or ask guests to bring them. Write out explicit instructions for how you want the tasks accomplished so you that you don’t have to re-do them.
Also, prioritize the tasks just in case you don’t have time to complete everything on your wish list — and don’t stress if some things are left undone.
2. Make the guest list
Unlike baby showers which typically have an extensive guest list that may include extended family, friends, coworkers and others, nesting parties tend to have a smaller, more intimate guest list of close friends and family. Consider your task list and plan to invite five to 10 guests who are a good match for things like putting together furniture, organizing and so on.
3. Make it fun
You’re putting people to work, so make it enjoyable at the same time. Play music, serve snacks and drinks that match the theme of the party, and hide little rewards, such as coffee gift cards, in the clothes being organized. Take breaks and avoid micromanaging or putting pressure on your guests.
4. Be grateful
Make sure guests know you appreciate them and their efforts. You want them to leave feeling satisfied that they’ve helped accomplish something important. A heartfelt thank-you speech, small party favors or personalized notes can go a long way.
“Remember that planning your nesting party should be enjoyable and not feel like another thing on your to-do list,” says Dr. Hanulik. “Keep it simple and resist the urge to control how things are being done. Focus on the love and support you’re receiving and consider everything else a bonus.”