Baby showers have been a beloved tradition for decades, celebrating mums-to-be with games, gifts, and a pastel-filled afternoon. But as the needs of modern mothers shift, a new trend is emerging across Australia – nesting parties. These gatherings aren’t just about celebrating a new baby; they’re about supporting a new mama. Focused on helping mums prepare emotionally, practically, and physically for postpartum life, nesting parties are becoming the baby shower alternative more Australian families are embracing.
So what exactly is a nesting party and why is it gaining popularity among expecting parents?
What Is a Nesting Party?
A nesting party is a gathering focused on helping a pregnant mum get her home, body, and mind ready for the arrival of her baby. It’s less about gifts and games and more about showing up for real-life support. Think:
• Stocking the freezer with nourishing postpartum meals
• Practical help such as setting up a nursery, areas of the home or getting small tasks done that are on her to-do list
• Cleaning, folding laundry, or organizing baby clothes
• Providing emotional support and connection
• Creating a space where the the mama feels seen, heard, and cared for
It’s a powerful way to reduce the overwhelm many Australian mums experience in the weeks before birth.
Why Are Nesting Parties Becoming Popular in Australia?
In Australia, the focus on mental health, postpartum support, and building a village around new mothers is growing. Nesting parties tap into this shift by:
• Providing practical support during the often exhausting final weeks of pregnancy
• Building community and fostering deeper connections with loved ones
• Normalising the need for help, rather than putting pressure on the mum to be the host
• Reducing postpartum anxiety by helping prepare meals, spaces, and emotional support systems in advance
More Aussie mums are recognising that while baby showers are lovely, they don’t always offer the kind of support that’s truly needed in the lead-up to birth.
How Is a Nesting Party Different From a Traditional Baby Shower?
Common Nesting Party Activities
Nesting parties can look different depending on the mum’s needs and her support network. Here are some common elements:
- Freezer meal prepping for postpartum
- Light housework or tidying to ease the mental load
- Assembling baby items like the cot, pram, or car seat
- Preparing areas of the home to support the early weeks
- Creating a feeding/postpartum trolley with all Mama’s essential items.
- Journaling or intention setting for birth and motherhood
- Bringing nourishing snacks or drinks to share
- Sharing stories or offering emotional support
It’s all about creating a vibe of care, warmth, and genuine help.
Who Is Hosting Nesting Parties?
Nesting parties are typically hosted by:
• A close friend, sister, or birth partner
• A doula or postpartum support person
• The mum-to-be herself (but planned with others)
The key is that it feels easy, not like another event she has to plan or perform for.
How to Plan a Nesting Party in Australia
Planning a nesting party is simple and can be tailored to each mum. Here’s how:
1. Ask the mum what would actually help. Does she need help setting up baby things? Prepping meals? A calm afternoon with close friends?
2. Create a loose plan. This could be two hours of meal prep followed by herbal tea and a chat.
3. Keep it intimate. Unlike baby showers, nesting parties work best with a smaller more intimate group.
4. Bring useful items. Instead of baby gifts, bring groceries, nourishing snacks, or something small for the mum.
5. Focus on presence over presents. The real gift is care and connection.
Why Nesting Parties Are the Baby Shower Alternative More Aussie Mums Are Choosing
As the narrative around motherhood evolves, Australian mums are becoming more vocal about what they really need. Nesting parties offer something baby showers often don’t, support that actually lightens the load.
From reducing mental stress to helping prepare the home and freezer, they empower mothers to feel more ready, more connected, and more cared for.
Final Thoughts
So, is a nesting party the new baby shower trend in Australia? We believe so and we are all for it!
As more expecting parents seek meaningful support over tradition, the nesting party is emerging as a powerful, practical, and heartfelt way to gather around the mother, not just the baby. Whether you’re pregnant, a friend, or a doula looking to support a client, consider ditching the diaper games and showing up in a way that truly makes a difference.
