I’ll be honest—I’ve never been great at sticking to “standard” party plans. Whether it’s a bridal brunch or a baby shower, I can’t help but add a little twist to make it more personal. There’s just something special about watching a mom-to-be light up when she realizes her shower isn’t just beautiful—it’s uniquely her.

And when fall rolls around? That’s my favorite time to host. The colors, the food, the cozy vibes—it’s like the season was made for celebrating new beginnings.

Creating a Fall-Inspired Tablescape

Let’s start with my favorite part: the table. A good tablescape sets the tone for the whole shower. For a fall theme, think warm, layered, and a touch rustic. Here are some ideas I love:

• Use texture: Pair a linen or plaid runner with wood boards, woven chargers, or velvet napkins.

• Play with height: Elevate dishes using cake stands or stacked boards to make the spread visually interesting.

• Incorporate nature: Small pumpkins, eucalyptus branches, or even cinnamon sticks tucked into napkin rings make perfect seasonal accents.

• Mix old and new: Combine sentimental pieces (like Grandma’s milk glass) with modern platters or trays for a collected feel.

Your food display can be as cozy as the season—think mini pies, caramel apple slices, and a warm cider bar. Guests love grazing, so a baby-themed charcuterie board or a fall-inspired grazing board with cheese, nuts, dried fruits, and chocolates always disappears fast!

Baby Shower Activities That Aren’t Games

If you’ve been to one too many showers with the same baby food guessing game, it’s time to mix things up. A few creative twists:

• DIY Baby Book Corner: Have guests write messages or “parenting hacks” on the inside covers of cardboard books.

• Pumpkin Decorating Station: Let guests paint or sticker mini pumpkins for a hands-on activity.

• Sweet Treat Bar: Fill jars with the parents’ favorite candies or snacks—bonus points if they match the color theme.

• Advice/Wishing Tree: Guests hang notes of encouragement or well-wishes on a small potted tree for the parents-to-be to take home.

Little touches like these keep the energy up and make guests feel part of the celebration—not just spectators.

Thoughtful Gift Ideas for Parents-to-Be

Choosing a gift that’s both useful and heartwarming can be tricky, but here are a few go-tos I love suggesting:

• A cozy blanket and tea set for those late-night feeds.

• A “New Parents Survival Kit” filled with snacks, coffee, and self-care items.

• A keepsake memory book for the baby’s first year.

• A meal delivery or restaurant gift card (trust me, they’ll thank you later).

But if you’re looking for something that feels extra special, our Oh Baby Box is a perfect choice. It’s thoughtfully curated for those first snuggly days at home, filled with sweet essentials for both baby and parents. This box invites moments of calm and connection—picture the new parents curled up on the couch, their little one nestled in a soft onesie, reading a cardboard book together while the world outside turns crisp and cool.

If you’d like to make your next shower unforgettable—or send a thoughtful surprise to a friend who’s expecting—you can order the Oh Baby Box directly from Sara’s Boxes & Boards. It's not just a gift—it’s an experience designed to help parents slow down, savor the moment, and settle into their new season of life with warmth and comfort.