What is a Baby Sprinkle?

If you’re wondering what a baby sprinkle is, don’t worry–we’ve got you covered with everything you need to know about the latest trend for mom-to-be. A baby sprinkle is just like a baby shower but scaled down. If mom is on her second, third (or fourth) child, consider throwing her a baby sprinkle instead of a full blown baby shower.

Although traditional baby shower etiquette calls for showering the first child only, the mom-to-be may want to celebrate each birth. If so, a baby sprinkle is the perfect idea for gathering her loved ones without asking too much of them.

cute baby sprinkle invites

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What is a Baby Sprinkle, Exactly?

A baby sprinkle is a low-key gathering of close family and friends to celebrate the mom-to-be’s upcoming baby arrival. Baby sprinkle ideas are usually less extravagant and don’t require as much work. From decorations to food, everything is simplified and more modest. Baby sprinkles last 2-3 hours and are always shorter than a baby shower.

Who’s Invited to a Baby Sprinkle?

For a baby sprinkle, only close family and friends are typically invited while co-workers and distant friends or family don’t receive an invite. Since a baby sprinkle is more casual, you can choose to make it a co-ed event so dad’s friends can come too. When it comes to baby shower invitations, you’ll want to choose a design that says “Baby Sprinkle” or let guests know the nature of the event in the description.

When to Host a Baby Sprinkle?

Your baby sprinkle should be 8-10 weeks before your due date. If you’re counting by pregnancy weeks, you can host a baby sprinkle when the expectant mother is 28-32 weeks, just like a baby shower.  You can reference our guide on when to host a baby shower to compare your baby sprinkle date.

What Gifts Should Guests Bring?

When it comes to gifts, guests skip the elaborate and large gifts for a baby sprinkle. Instead, proper baby sprinkle etiquette calls for guests to bring simple gifts like diapers, baby clothes, toiletries, wipes, and more. Gift card amounts are usually under $50 and paired with a baby shower card.

Gift registries usually aren’t created for baby sprinkles since the gift-giving is on a smaller scale. If you do decide to make a baby registry, you don’t have to include it on the invitation and instead keep it handy for if anyone asks.

What About Gift Bags and Favors?

Gift bags and baby shower favors are optional at a baby sprinkle. However, if you do want to offer gift bags, try smaller and inexpensive options or food gift ideas. Consider a candy bar where guests can make their own gift bags or a popcorn bar with different flavors.

grow themed baby shower favor

Should You Send Thank You Cards?

Although a baby sprinkle is casual, you should still send baby shower thank you cards and show your gratitude. Guests are still making an effort to come celebrate your newest pregnancy and you’ll want to send them a sweet thank you note. Your message should be similar to a regular baby shower thank you message but not as long.

Baby sprinkles are the perfect idea for celebrating multiple pregnancies without overwhelming your loved ones. From brunch in your kitchen to a casual celebration in your backyard, you can keep things small and simple with a baby sprinkle.