Baby sprinkles have exploded in popularity because they’re the perfect blend of fun, easygoing, and totally practical! For second-time (or third-time!) parents, a traditional baby shower can feel a bit excessive. Enter the baby sprinkle: a smaller, more intimate celebration that’s all about the little things. Here is everything you need to know about hosting or being the guest of honor at a baby sprinkle. 

Hostess with the Mostest

If you find yourself hosting a baby sprinkle for a dear friend or family member, we’re here to guide you! First and foremost, check in with the parents-to-be to discuss the guest list and any special requests to make the celebration extra special. Once you have a good sense of the guest list, you can start to explore venue options. Common options for a venue include at someone’s home or a private room at a restaurant. Keep in mind that a more intimate setting is often the best fit for a sprinkle. Once the venue is locked in, you can turn your attention to creating a simple yet thoughtful vibe that is reflective of the parents-to-be. 

Here are four themes that will impress your guests: 

• Little Sprout: Garden Theme

• Decorate with greenery and potted plants

• Offer a seedling giveaway

• Twinkle Twinkle Little Star

• Decorate the space with twinkly fairy lights

• Offer a star shaped cookie

• Baby in Bloom: Floral Theme

• Decorate with flowers

• Offer a floral arrangement class

• Tea for Two: Tea Party Theme

• Decorate with florals, tea cups

• Offer delicate finger sandwiches

Once you land on a theme, you can continue planning efforts such as invitations, make arrangements for food and drinks, create a welcoming atmosphere with décor that suits the theme, and provide entertainment or activities for guests. If you’re looking to host a sprinkle that offers connection over convention, you may want to check out this article which explores more creative ideas for hosting a baby shower (most if not all can be applied to a sprinkle). With these hosting basics in mind, you’re sure to throw a sprinkle that everyone will remember fondly. 

Considerations for the expecting parents

As expecting parents, it’s important to take a moment to celebrate this exciting new chapter, surrounded by loved ones who can share in the joy and anticipation of welcoming your little one. If a baby sprinkle is being thrown for you, your role is simple—soak up all the love and support! In addition to setting expectations with the host and expressing your gratitude to those supporting you, here are a few thoughtful tips for navigating gift-giving at your baby sprinkle. 

As second-time parents, you probably already have a good sense of what you need (and what you don’t) to prepare for your new arrival. While it might feel awkward to ask for specific gifts, most guests truly want to give you something you'll love and use. Providing a little guidance can help them choose the perfect items, ensuring that the gifts are both thoughtful and practical for your growing family. Here are a few ways you can put a personalized spin of gifts and avoid receiving duplicates or items you may not need: 

• Consider sharing a second-time baby registry. While you may already have some of the primary baby gear, there are newborn clothing essentials that most parents find helpful - think new pacifiers, a second sound machine, books, or gender specific clothing (if you are finding out). For more ideas on creating a second-time baby registry, Poppylist has done the research for you with a list of the 20 best registry items for second-time parents.

• Provide guests with a general category of items you'd love, such as onesies or books to start your little one's library. Or encourage them to bring gifts aligned to the theme of the shower. It’s always fun to see how guests put their own spin on your gift suggestions! When I was expecting my son, a friend hosted a duck-themed sprinkle, and I received everything from stuffed animals to books to clothing. Now, at two years old, when he’s asked about his favorite animal, he proudly says "duck," which always brings me back to that sweet, memorable sprinkle

• Perhaps baby items are not at the top of your wishlist and you would like to request something even more practical during the postpartum stage including meal services such as Mama Meals and a meal train. Feel free to request the support you truly need by gently guiding guests away from second baby essentials and towards items that will help you thrive during those early days.

• An alternative to gift-giving is to ask guests to donate to a cause that’s important to you, whether it's a charity or a project supporting families in need. This can create a meaningful impact that goes beyond your baby sprinkle and contributes to something larger.

With a more intimate atmosphere, thoughtful themes, and personalized gifting, it’s a chance to embrace the joy and anticipation of welcoming a little one in a way that feels just right for you. Whether you’re hosting or being celebrated, a baby sprinkle is all about connection, love, and practical support. By setting clear expectations, sharing what you truly need, and encouraging meaningful gestures, you can ensure that the celebration is both memorable and meaningful.