Our “Journey to Parenthood” Themed Baby Shower

boston baby bridal shower maternity dress outfit

ASOS dress sz 4 altered (love their maternity line), Hat Hive fascinator, AT pumps (similar)
On Nick – J.Crew 484 pants, TH suspenders

Last month, we had a coed celebration for our baby girl with some of our very thoughtful and generous friends and family! We were surprised and grateful that so many out-of-towners made the trip to join us in Boston. The party theme was “journey to parenthood” with a vintage, European travel style twist. I’ve always loved the idea of ladies from the past in hats and gloves, boarding trains carrying beautiful hat boxes and leather travel trunks. If you’re planning a bridal or baby shower, a royal wedding or tea party theme would be similarly fun reasons to get dressed up!

boston coed baby shower maternity shoot couple outfits

vintage floral arrangement travel theme wedding shower
Our shower was at SRV in Boston’s South End, which has an airy private patio space with bistro lighting (a rare find in the midst of the city). Unfortunately it was pouring rain that day, but our florist Teresa did an incredible job re-orchestrating things for indoors at the last minute. My jaw literally dropped when we arrived – I thought her gorgeous display was fit for a wedding, and she nailed the vintage-inspired theme using rustic greenery with mustard and blush florals!

petites lace dress derby tea party outfits

On Mom – Ann Taylor lace dress 0P (she’s 5’2,” 105lb), BP sandals (very comfy), Amazon fascinator

A different idea for a floral photo wall on a budget is using large paper flowers – I’ve DIY’d some for my friends’ events, and recently discovered that they can be purchased on Etsy! On the topic of Etsy, I’m a little addicted to browsing the custom and handcrafted boutiques on there. I got my fascinator hat from this shop, and my friend found this sugar cookie vendor who did such a detailed job. Dying over these “passport to parenthood,” luggage, and onesie cookies!

baby shower sugar cookies onesies passport travel theme
bridal or baby shower dessert treat table balloons vintage travel theme

Vendors

Photos: Catherine Threlkeld Photography
Florals: Mimosa Fresh Flower Design
Luggage & trays: finds from SOWA vintage
Balloons: WOW balloons
Cakes: Lizzie’s Bakery
Cookies: Creative Cookie Corner
Restaurant: SRV Boston

boston baby bridal shower venue south end
suitcase luggage travel theme baby bridal shower

These mini suitcase boxes served as both place card settings and party favors (filled with candies). For food, SRV makes all of their pastas fresh (right up our alley), but their small bites and appetizers were the stars here. Everyone was raving about the flavorful carrot and short rib starters.

boston srv italian restaurant baby bridal shower venue
baby or bridal shower cake table vintage travel theme

How pretty is this painted buttercream cake and assorted floral cupcakes? If you order from Lizzie’s Bakery, my personal favorite flavor was her carrot cake with cream cheese frosting!

rose flower cupcakes baby or bridal shower desserts

I wish I got a shot with all the girls before guests had to leave! Only managed to grab this quick photo at the very end … love these beautiful ladies and a few more who are missing. If you enjoy reading blogs, you may recognize the lovely Wendy from Wendy’s Lookbook, Emily from The Sweetest Thing, and Khatu from her Etsy shop.

baby shower coed games eggplant and egg
coed baby shower games eggplant egg

This is a Filipino-inspired game that we’ve played at a few showers before! It always makes for some good laughs and fervent hip swinging amongst our friends. Supplies: string, plastic baggies, uncooked eggs, and eggplants (we’ve also played this just with two eggs instead of egg + eggplant). How to play: Grab a partner. Partner # 1: place an egg in a baggie and tie it around your waist so that it swings freely. Partner #2: tie an eggplant around your waist the same way. The first team to crack their egg by swinging their hips wins (no cheating using your hands)!

baby shower activities diaper
baby shower games diaper

This was a cute activity – can’t wait to read all the little sticky notes during our late-night diaper changes!

mens outfits vintage travel theme party
The men took the party style theme to heart and I have to say, looked pretty dapper!

boston baby shower decor ideas onesie garland
I adore these custom onesies Nick got from Cheerily, with nods to baby’s Chinese & Filipino heritage.

fascinator tea party hat baby bridal shower outfit maternity dress
baby boys shower outfit

My younger brother, Schuyler, with the cutest little partygoer (baby Theo) in his themed outfit!

naked drip cake cupcake stands baby bridal shower
fresh flower wall wedding vintage theme

When you purchase through the links on this blog, I may earn a commission. Thank you for your support!

When you purchase through the links on this blog, I may earn a commission. Thank you for your support!

For Daily Posts

Leave a Comment

48 Comments

  1. Mel wrote:

    Jean, it looks like someone is using your photos (probably without permission) – https://www.preownedweddingdresses.com/dresses/view/215415/Lazaro-3415-Size-4

    My friend who is shopping for a wedding dress sent me the link. I didn’t think it was you since the dress wasn’t your size and you don’t live in California. Thought you might want to know.

    Posted 8.14.18 Reply
  2. Jenny Yang wrote:

    I am obsessed with all of these shots and the theme! I haven’t seen any parties like this! So excited for you and Nick!
    xx jen
    http://lilthoughtswithjen.com/

    Posted 8.13.18 Reply
  3. Varuna Jithesh wrote:

    Nice and Perfect looking outfit.

    Posted 8.13.18 Reply
  4. camilla wrote:

    Oh, you look so beautiful. I like your dresses and all the photos.

    Posted 8.13.18 Reply
  5. Anny wrote:

    i love the theme of this shower! so cute!! cant wait for your baby to come! btw do you have any tips on how to get rid of shoulder bumps from your knit sweaters and blouses? what kind of hangers do you use to avoid the bumps and how do you hang try your clothes?? i would love if you could help!!

    Posted 8.12.18 Reply
  6. Ka wrote:

    Just curious with the babyshower game, was someone able to break the egg with the eggplant? The theme is totally cute and beautiful.

    Posted 8.12.18 Reply
  7. Anonymous wrote:

    Just curious with the babyshower game, was someone able to break the egg with the eggplant? The theme is totally cute and beautiful.

    Posted 8.12.18 Reply
  8. Sharon wrote:

    Everything looks beautiful! You have such wonderful taste and class. Congratulations!

    Posted 8.12.18 Reply
  9. Jennie wrote:

    Jean—- everything looked so beautiful!
    Is your husband Filipino??

    Posted 8.11.18 Reply
  10. Petite Teacher wrote:

    Never seen such original cookies before. Wow! And great to see some of your friends in a picture. It’s wonderful having friends and family around you when there is something to celebrate! Love, Lieske

    Posted 8.11.18 Reply
  11. Bela Anzu wrote:

    Your baby shower theme seems so well suited to the two of you, and the decor and food looks gorgeous. The hot air balloon cookie reminded me of your L’Occitane trip and the luggages reminded me of your wedding. I’m thrilled for both of you, as you enter this exciting stage.

    Wishing you a smooth delivery and recovery!

    Posted 8.10.18 Reply
    • Jean | Extra Petite wrote:

      Hi Bela, I hope you are doing well and that your pregnancy is progressing along healthily!! It’s always great to hear from you. You have such a great memory – we were definitely inspired by both of those things when requesting the cookies ; ) xx

      Posted 8.15.18 Reply
  12. Kelcy wrote:

    I love the theme Jean. So much attention to detail. The cookies have to be my favorite. Congrats to you and Nick!

    Posted 8.10.18 Reply
  13. Amy wrote:

    hi Jean! I don’t know how you make almost full term pregnancy look good, but you do! I’ve gone through 4 pregnancies and looked like a big whale each time. Wishing you and Nick a safe L&D and can’t wait to see pics of your princess. I’m Chinese-Filipino. Are you and Nick both mixed as well?

    Posted 8.10.18 Reply
    • Jean | Extra Petite wrote:

      Hi Amy! Thank you for the kind words … I am absolutely certain that you looked beautiful during your pregnancies, but I know our view of our own bodies while in the midst of it gets a little distorted, lol! PS – I’m fully Chinese and Nick is half Filipino, half European mix.

      Posted 8.15.18 Reply
  14. Blanca Perdomo wrote:

    Such a refreshing theme! I love it! Congrats to you both <3

    Posted 8.9.18 Reply
  15. Maureen wrote:

    OH wow! I love at how your baby shower turned out! You look beautiful and I do recognize Wendy and Emily! So sweet of them to join you. I am so glad you guys had a great celebration.

    Maureen | http://www.littlemisscasual.com

    Posted 8.9.18 Reply
  16. Vicky wrote:

    Absolutely in love with the theme and decor of this shower! Congratulations to you both!

    Posted 8.9.18 Reply
  17. Varuna Jithesh wrote:

    Nice and Perfect looking outfit..

    Posted 8.9.18 Reply
  18. Gyh wrote:

    Felicidades!!!

    Posted 8.8.18 Reply
  19. Angela Jagers wrote:

    Awesome theme and beautiful baby shower! Congratulations to you & your family and blessed baby girl!

    Posted 8.8.18 Reply
  20. Yasmin wrote:

    How pretty is it all! Loved all the little details. But I wouldn’t expect anything less from you 😄
    Enjoy these last few weeks before your darling girl makes her entrance.
    Love & hugs from London

    Posted 8.8.18 Reply
    • Jean | Extra Petite wrote:

      Hugs to you as well, Yasmin ~ thank you for your kind comment!

      Posted 8.9.18 Reply
  21. Elizabeth T. wrote:

    Such a cute theme! <3 🙂 Really loved everyone's outfits so much! And I'm sooo happy for you and Nick, Jean!

    Elizabeth T.
    http://clothestoyouuu.com

    Posted 8.8.18 Reply
  22. Peppermint Dolly wrote:

    What a beautiful celebration – those cookies look sensational!

    Rebecca | http://www.peppermintdolly.com

    Posted 8.8.18 Reply
  23. Mary Buchanan Moore wrote:

    What a thrilling time of your life. No better way to celebrate than with a themed baby shower with family and friends. Everything looks gorgeous and scrumptious! I am old enough to know what a train case is and you are rocking the baby blue train case for sure. (no pun intended!)

    Posted 8.8.18 Reply
    • Jean | Extra Petite wrote:

      Thanks so much, Mary! I wish train cases would make a comeback ; )

      Posted 8.9.18 Reply
  24. Christal wrote:

    Such a beautiful, classy shower for a very beautiful, classy mama-to-be. Congratulations!

    Posted 8.8.18 Reply
    • Jean | Extra Petite wrote:

      Aw thank you, Christal! xx

      Posted 8.9.18 Reply
  25. Vidya wrote:

    Beautiful!! Where did yall get that “Crappy Advice” board? I’d love to get one for an upcoming baby shower.

    Posted 8.8.18 Reply
    • Jean | Extra Petite wrote:

      Hi Vidya – it’s just a sign that my husband typed up and printed then put into a photo frame!

      Posted 8.9.18 Reply
  26. Ray Amaari wrote:

    You looked beautiful.

    Posted 8.8.18 Reply
  27. Susan wrote:

    What a beautiful shower! So many great ideas–and as I live near Boston, I will visit the South End! What is your due date? It must be soon! Love and hugs to you and Nick and your new little sweetie.

    Posted 8.8.18 Reply
    • Jean | Extra Petite wrote:

      Thank you, Susan! I’m due August 22nd : )

      Posted 8.9.18 Reply
  28. brianna wrote:

    these photos are beautiful. what an amazing tribe you’ve got supporting you.

    Posted 8.8.18 Reply
  29. Shannon Mahaney wrote:

    What a gorgeous shower! I absolutely adore your dress. It’s perfect on you!

    Posted 8.8.18 Reply
  30. Brandi wrote:

    This is such a classy and fun theme! No dumb storks with mints and almonds as food. I think thats why I despise baby showers is because of the themes Ive seen in the past and told my husband I dont want a shower haha but this was so sweet. And the theme fit you guys and was so special! Those cookies look too good to eat. I cant believe the detail! It was all so pretty, your florist did awesome.
    Your mom looked really pretty, and your brother is growing up fast too! I was thinking back to other pics Ive seen of him on the blog in the past. Is he your only sibling?
    I wish you the best safest easiest labor and delivery. Good luck! 😁❤

    Posted 8.8.18 Reply
    • Jean | Extra Petite wrote:

      Thank you for the sweet comment, Brandi! I think the possibilities are endless for showers these days, especially with coed ones.

      I have two brothers … one 5 years younger and one 18 years younger who likes to pretend he’s my kid, haha…

      Posted 8.9.18 Reply
  31. Kristen Shaw wrote:

    LOVE the theme! So perfect for both of you!

    Posted 8.8.18 Reply
  32. Michael @ Mile in My Glasses wrote:

    I love this theme so much! You both look amazing, and I’m so excited for you! Wonderful photos Jean! I hope you’re having a fabulous Wednesday,
    Michael
    https://www.mileinmyglasses.com

    Posted 8.8.18 Reply
  33. Mireia wrote:

    Everything is too cute!

    Posted 8.8.18 Reply
  34. Rena wrote:

    Oh, you had a super lovely party and you look adorable!
    xx from Bavaria/Germany, Rena
    http://www.dressedwithsoul.com

    Posted 8.8.18 Reply
  35. Nikki wrote:

    I love love love every little details from your baby shower! It’s so beautiful and perfect! Thank you for sharing us your journey to parenthood and cheers to an exciting chapter in life! Wishing you a smooth delivery, quick recovery and healthy mommy & baby! 💕

    Posted 8.8.18 Reply
    • Jean | Extra Petite wrote:

      Thank you, Nikki! <3

      Posted 8.9.18 Reply
  36. Roses for Fridays | by mia wrote:

    Such a beautiful theme and celebration in welcoming the little Angel to arrive. So very lovely

    Posted 8.8.18 Reply
  37. Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog wrote:

    I love the unique theme of your Baby Shower! I think it’s so refreshing how the theme and the decor aren’t what we typically see. It’s beautiful. I hope you had an awesome time, Jean. 🙂 Enjoy your last days of pregnancy before your baby girl comes! 💕💕

    http://charmainenyw.com

    Posted 8.7.18 Reply
  38. Mimi wrote:

    Really love the theme and all the pictures. I’m glad everyone had a great time. I remember when you first announced your pregnancy, I was so thrilled for you and Nick. Now baby girl is going to be here in a few weeks. I’m so happy for you, and I hope that you will have a safe delivery. Healthy mom and healthy baby.

    Posted 8.7.18 Reply
    • Jean | Extra Petite wrote:

      Thank you so much for the kind words, Mimi!

      Posted 8.9.18 Reply

Get the newsletter!

What updates would you like?