Baby Shower vs Gender Reveal: What’s the Difference?

A Heartfelt Guide by Baby Riddle

Pregnancy is full of surprises—some of them magical, some of them hormonal, and some of them marked on your calendar. If you’ve ever asked, “Wait, do I need a gender reveal and a baby shower?” you’re not alone.

At Baby Riddle, we’re here to help you celebrate this season with joy, not overwhelm. This guide breaks down the difference between a baby shower and gender reveal, how to plan either (or both), and which party might fit your vibe best.

What Is a Gender Reveal Party?

A gender reveal party is all about the big moment—when you (and maybe your family and friends) find out whether baby is a boy or a girl.

It’s more about memory-making than gift-receiving. Think balloon pops, confetti cannons, powder reveals, or themed gender reveal backdrops for that one magical, unforgettable moment.

Whether you're outdoors with the whole crew or quietly opening a reveal box at home, the gender reveal is the celebration of anticipation.

What Is a Baby Shower?

A baby shower is the more traditional event, usually hosted later in pregnancy. It’s when your village shows up with hugs, gifts, games, and maybe a tower of diapers you’ll be very thankful for at 2am someday.

Baby showers are focused on preparing you (and baby) with essentials like bamboo sleepers, gift sets, gender-neutral baby clothes, and thoughtful touches for postpartum life.

If you're a list-maker with a registry and a checklist, the baby shower is your moment to receive, feel supported, and maybe eat a second piece of cake.

Baby Shower vs Gender Reveal: What’s the Real Difference?

If you’re wondering, "Is a gender reveal a baby shower?" or "Is a gender reveal the same as a baby shower?" you’re definitely not the only one asking. While both are joyful milestones during pregnancy, they serve totally different purposes.

Here’s the difference between gender reveal and baby shower at a glance:

Gender Reveal = The moment of surprise

Baby Shower = The moment of support

The gender reveal vs baby shower question really comes down to celebration style. One is about announcing your baby’s gender; the other is about showering you with love (and supplies!).

Do You Have to Do Both?

Not at all. You can:

• Do both (because yes, you deserve all the love)

• Combine them into one sweet celebration

• Pick the one that feels most meaningful to you

Some mamas love the excitement of a gender reveal early on and the support of a baby shower later. Others prefer a one-and-done moment with a combo party. Some opt out altogether and keep it quiet and cozy. All valid. All beautiful.

What Comes First—Baby Shower or Gender Reveal?

Great question—and it’s one we hear often. 

Typically, a gender reveal comes first, followed by the baby shower.

Gender Reveal: Around 16–20 weeks, once baby’s gender can be confirmed through ultrasound or testing.

Baby Shower: Usually held between 28–32 weeks. The bump is poppin’, but mama’s still got the energy to mingle.

So if you're wondering "what comes first: baby shower or gender reveal?", this is your answer!

Theme Ideas & Setups for Each Celebration

If you’re hosting both, the vibes can be totally different. Think fun, flashy, and a little mysterious for the gender reveal—then warm, heartfelt, and gift-focused for the baby shower.

Here’s how to make them special:

Gender Reveal Must-Haves

• Gender Reveal Cannons

• Confetti Poppers

• Balloon Arches

• Gender Reveal Games (because competitive cousins are a thing)

• Backdrop & Table Décor for Insta-worthy photos

Baby Shower Sweet Touches

While baby showers are more gift-centered, your setup still deserves a little sparkle!

Try:

• Gender-Neutral Baby Gifts

• Baby Shower Table Décor

• Newborn Essentials like soft onesies, bamboo footies, and gift-ready bundles

• A mom gift, too—because she’s growing a whole human

What If You Want to Combine Them?

Totally doable! Combine the cozy gift-giving of a baby shower with the suspense of a gender reveal. Plan the shower as usual, then carve out a reveal moment mid-party. From cut-the-cake surprises to balloon walls, there are dozens of gender reveal party themes that blend beautifully into baby showers.

What If You Just Want to Keep It Chill?

Mama, there’s no rulebook. You can:

• Host a cozy backyard brunch with a balloon pop.

• Have a virtual baby shower with mailed gifts and matching pajamas.
  

• Skip the fanfare and just send everyone a sweet pic with a “He or She?” onesie. (Spoiler: We have those too.)
  

Easy Planning Tips (Without the Stress)

Planning a party while also growing a human? That’s a lot, mama. Here’s how to make it feel lighter:

• Pick a theme that feels fun and doable

• Order ready-to-go gender reveal kits

• Use decor that doubles as keepsakes

• Let someone else set up (and thank them with cupcakes)

• Keep food simple and cozy

And most of all? Give yourself grace. Your baby doesn’t need perfection, they need a joyful, loved mama.

Still Deciding?

You don’t need to impress anyone. These moments are for you—to feel joy, connection, and maybe a few happy tears. 

Whether you’re deciding between baby shower vs gender reveal, or asking "is baby shower and gender reveal the same?", remember: the most important thing being revealed is the love that surrounds this little life.

Celebrate With Baby Riddle

At Baby Riddle, we believe your celebration should reflect your story. Whether you go big or stay simple, we have everything you need to make your moment memorable, from confetti and cannons to matching onesies and gifts that make your heart melt.

Ready to plan your gender reveal or baby shower? Explore Our Gender Reveal & Baby Shower Collection.