Baby Shower Brunch or Afternoon Tea?

Planning a baby shower is one of the most joyful and memorable parts of the pregnancy journey. Whether you're organising it for yourself, a close friend, or a family member, choosing the perfect style of celebration sets the tone for the entire event. One of the first big decisions is: Brunch or Afternoon Tea? Both offer their own unique charm and can be beautifully styled to suit any vision. At Elizabeth James Events, we’ve seen both formats work brilliantly - here’s how to decide what’s best for your day, plus how to style it to perfection.

Why Choose a Brunch?

A baby shower brunch has become a popular option for modern mums-to-be. It’s relaxed, flexible, and can be tailored to suit all types of guests. Typically held between 10am and 1pm, brunch offers the best of breakfast and lunch, making it easy to create a menu that pleases everyone. Whether you opt for a sit-down affair or a more casual buffet or grazing table, brunch is ideal for:

• Early risers or busy families who prefer daytime gatherings.
• Incorporating both sweet and savoury foods (think croissants, pancakes, avocado toast, mini quiches, fruit platters).
• A light, informal tone that encourages socialising and mingling.
  
  

Brunch Decor Ideas

The decor for a brunch can be relaxed yet polished. Here are some stunning ideas we love:

• Pastel Colour Palettes: Soft shades like blush, sage, lemon, or baby blue work beautifully for morning light.
• Balloon Displays: Statement balloon arches or clusters around entranceways or tables add playfulness and style.
• Floral Touches: Think wildflower-style centrepieces in mason jars or bud vases scattered across the table.
• Rustic Wooden Signage: “Mum-osa Bar” or “Bump Ahead!” signs give guests a warm welcome.
• Neon Signs: Elizabeth James Events offers glowing signs like “Oh Baby” or “Let’s Celebrate” to add a modern flair.
  
  

Our expert stylists can match decor to your brunch theme - be it boho, garden party, or minimalist chic.

Why Choose Afternoon Tea?

If you’re after a baby shower with traditional elegance and charm, afternoon tea might be your perfect match. Typically starting between 2pm and 4pm, this format leans into British heritage with classic tea-time treats and a structured flow. It’s ideal for:

• Smaller, more intimate guest lists.
• Vintage themes or formal dress codes.
• A more seated and relaxed format with time for speeches or games.
  
  

Afternoon tea menus often feature dainty finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam, and beautiful patisserie.

Afternoon Tea Decor Inspiration

Afternoon tea settings allow for plenty of creative expression. Consider:

• Vintage Crockery: Floral-patterned teacups, tiered cake stands, and dainty teapots set the scene perfectly.
• Lace Table Runners: Layer lace over soft pastels to elevate your tablescape.
• Candles and Fairy Lights: Add a romantic, whimsical touch to the space.
• Teacup Flower Arrangements: Use vintage teacups filled with seasonal blooms as centrepieces.
• Personalised Menus and Name Cards: A sweet detail for each guest’s place setting.
  
  

Elizabeth James Events has a wide range of elegant decor pieces and accessories to bring a vintage or traditional baby shower to life.

More parents are choosing to keep their baby’s gender a surprise - or simply want to move away from the classic pink and blue divide. A gender-neutral baby shower opens up exciting opportunities to get creative with your decor and theme. Earthy tones like terracotta, mustard, sage, and ivory are popular, along with playful but elegant themes such as woodland creatures, safari animals, celestial skies, or modern rainbows.

At Elizabeth James Events, we can help bring your vision to life with:

• Neutral Balloon Garlands: Muted tones with pops of metallic or greenery.
• Foliage Flower Walls: Perfect for photo backdrops or behind a dessert table.
• Custom Neon Signs: With phrases like “Oh Baby”, “Little One”, or “Adventure Awaits”.
• Natural Textures: Incorporating wood, jute, and linen in table styling adds warmth and texture.
  
  

A gender-neutral theme feels fresh, stylish, and inclusive, while keeping the focus on what really matters - celebrating the parents and their new adventure.

To help you decide, here’s a quick comparison:

Both options can be adapted to your preferences, and Elizabeth James Events is here to make either choice feel cohesive and picture-perfect.

Whether you envision a laid-back brunch filled with laughter and mimosa toasts or a refined afternoon tea with vintage charm and delicate treats, Elizabeth James Events can help make it magical.

We offer:

• Beautiful Balloon Displays in all colour palettes
• Luxe Flower Walls perfect for backdrops
• Neon and Light-Up Signage for that wow-factor
• Table Styling & Props to match your theme
• Set-Up & Styling Services so you can relax and enjoy the day
  
  

With our passion for creativity and attention to detail, we ensure every baby shower we style is unique, heartfelt, and unforgettable.

At the end of the day, whether you go for brunch or afternoon tea, your baby shower should reflect the personality and preferences of the mum-to-be. Think about the vibe you want to create, the type of food your guests will enjoy, and the kind of memories you hope to make.

And remember, it’s not about following trends - it’s about celebrating a once-in-a-lifetime moment with those who matter most. With the right theme and thoughtful decor, your baby shower will be a beautiful beginning to the next chapter.

Let Elizabeth James Events help you make it magical. Feel free to get in touch if you feel we can help you with your Baby Shower.