Ah, the ‘90s — a decade full of unforgettable pop culture moments, neon colors, and unforgettable toys. Whether you’re a ’90s kid or simply nostalgic for the era’s iconic style, a ’90s-themed baby shower can bring all the fun and throwback vibes you could want. From neon scrunchies to ‘90s TV shows and snack staples, this article will walk you through the best ideas to help you throw a memorable, epic baby shower that even the Fresh Prince would approve of.
Table of Contents
- The Ultimate Party Setup: Decorations, Favors, and Invitations
- Retro Food & Drinks: A Taste of the ‘90s
- ‘90s-Inspired Baby Shower Games for Fun and Nostalgia
- DIY Baby Shower Activities and Photo Ops
- Unique ‘90s-Themed Favors and Takeaways
1. The Ultimate Party Setup: Decorations, Favors, and Invitations
A successful ‘90s-themed baby shower starts with the right décor and ambiance. You want to transport your guests back in time to an era where cassette tapes and dial-up internet ruled the day. Here’s how you can recreate that vibe:
Neon and Bold Colors
The ‘90s were all about loud colors. Think neon greens, pinks, purples, and blues. To set the mood:
- Neon Garlands: Drape bright garlands or streamers around the party area. Neon-colored tissue paper or metallic fringe can create an exciting, retro look.
- Balloon Arches: A colorful balloon arch with a mix of pastel and neon shades can serve as a great entry point for your guests.
- Lisa Frank-Inspired Decor: The ’90s were defined by Lisa Frank’s vibrant designs. Incorporate elements like rainbow colors, unicorns, and playful patterns to bring out the nostalgia.
Throwback Invitations
Setting the tone for your baby shower starts with the invite. Use retro fonts, vibrant colors, and pop culture references. Look for invitations that include:
- Graffiti Fonts: A throwback to the ‘90s hip-hop scene, these fonts are perfect for inviting guests to your party.
- TV Show-Inspired Designs: Choose invites that nod to classic ‘90s shows like The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Friends, and Saved by the Bell. If you want to make a statement, design the invitations as VHS tapes or iconic TV screens.
Decorative Props
You can go all out with props that scream ‘90s:
- Inflatable Boomboxes and Cell Phones: Nothing says ‘90s more than these oversized props. Set them up as photo booth accessories or hang them as fun decorations.
- Old School TV Screens: Use vintage TV screens to display images from classic shows like The X-Files, Friends, and Full House. You can even play an episode of The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air on loop during the event.
Themed Favors and Takeaways
What’s a party without favors? But these aren’t your average party favors — we’re talking about things that will take your guests straight back to their childhood.
- Slap Bracelets and Scrunchies: These nostalgic accessories were everywhere in the ‘90s. Pack a few in a favor bag along with some fun candies.
- Glow Sticks: Glow sticks were a huge hit at ‘90s raves and parties. You can hand them out during the event for a fun, interactive experience. Set up a “Glow Bar” where guests can choose their favorite colors and use them throughout the party.
90s-Themed Photo Backdrops
For a truly memorable photo experience, set up a fun, retro backdrop. Options include:
- Graffiti Wall: Perfect for capturing group photos in front of a brightly colored wall with funky, graffiti-style art.
- Vintage Boombox Backdrop: Transform a corner with an inflatable or cardboard boombox and ‘90s-themed posters for the ultimate photo booth moment.
90s-Themed Welcome Sign
Your welcome sign sets the tone for the entire shower. Opt for a neon-colored sign with images of Rugrats, or go for a Fresh Prince vibe with retro graphics. You can even create a custom sign that reads something like: “Welcome to the 90s Baby Shower — Get ready to Party Like It’s 1999!”
2. Retro Food & Drinks: A Taste of the ‘90s
Let’s face it — the ‘90s had some of the most iconic snacks and drinks that we can’t help but miss. Recreate the flavor explosion of childhood with these throwback ideas for your baby shower.
Iconic Snacks
- Rice Krispies Treats: Make them in fun shapes or add colorful sprinkles to evoke the playful ‘90s vibe.
- Gogurts: These squeeze yogurt tubes were a favorite in the ‘90s. Create a mini yogurt bar for guests to enjoy, complete with toppings like granola, berries, and candy sprinkles.
- Totino’s Pizza Rolls: If you’re looking for something savory, serve up these nostalgic pizza rolls. Make them extra fun by labeling them with ‘90s references.
- Dunkaroos: These snack packs, which include cookies and frosting, were a must-have for any 90s kid’s lunchbox. You can recreate these at the party by setting up a “Dunkaroo” dessert station with cookies and various dipping frostings.
Retro Drinks
- Surge Soda: If you’re lucky enough to find some, Surge soda is the perfect nostalgic drink. If not, opt for green-colored drinks or sodas in neon shades to capture the same retro feeling.
- Capri Sun Pouches: Another staple from the ‘90s, Capri Suns were the drink of choice for every birthday party. You can give these a fun twist by adding labels with “Mom-to-Be” or custom baby shower phrases.
Fun Dessert Options
- Retro Cake: Imagine a cake inspired by Saved by the Bell’s The Max restaurant or topped with mini characters from Rugrats or The Powerpuff Girls. You can also make cupcakes shaped like ‘90s icons — think Gameboys or Tamagotchis.
- Neon Swirled Chocolate Pretzels: Dip pretzels in vibrant neon-colored chocolate for a fun, delicious treat. This dessert idea evokes memories of slap bracelets and neon-colored everything.
DIY Candy Table
Set up a candy table with all the sweets that defined the ‘90s. Include favorites like:
- Airheads
- Nerds
- Fruit Roll-Ups
- Ring Pops
Arrange them in colorful glass jars for a retro candy buffet where guests can fill up goodie bags or snack on these iconic treats throughout the event.
3. ‘90s-Inspired Baby Shower Games for Fun and Nostalgia
A baby shower isn’t complete without some fun games, and what better way to entertain guests than with ‘90s-themed activities? Here are some of the most entertaining and nostalgic games that will have everyone reminiscing about their favorite childhood moments.
‘90s Pop Culture Trivia
Test your guests’ knowledge of all things ‘90s with a fun trivia game. Here’s how to make it memorable:
- Prepare questions on ‘90s TV shows, movies, music, toys, and pop culture references. For example:
- *Who played the role of Rachel Green on Friends?
- *What was the name of the purple dinosaur in the kids’ show Barney & Friends?
- Which ‘90s toy required you to “hatch” it by rubbing it until it cracked open?
- Reward the winners with fun retro prizes such as slap bracelets or small jars of Neon Gak (remember that slime everyone used to love?).
‘90s MASH Game
Remember the classic MASH game where you’d predict your future life? Let’s give it a ‘90s twist by incorporating popular cultural references. You can use the traditional format (Mansion, Apartment, Shack, House), but with options that reflect the ‘90s:
- Husband: Will Smith, Zack Morris, JTT (Jonathan Taylor Thomas), or Nick Carter?
- Best Friend: Clarissa, Kelly Kapowski, Zack, or Rachel Green?
- Mode of Transportation: Rollerblades, Scooter, BMX Bike, or Go-Kart?
For added flair, print out MASH templates for guests to fill out during the shower. Not only will they have fun predicting their future, but they’ll also be reminiscing about the coolest ‘90s moments.
90s-Themed Pictionary or Charades
Take the classic games of Pictionary and Charades to the next level by making them ‘90s-themed:
- Pictionary: Draw famous ‘90s items, characters, or TV show references like the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, The Spice Girls, or the Macarena dance.
- Charades: Act out scenes from popular shows like Friends, Full House, or The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. Guests will love guessing iconic moments like Ross’s “pivot” or the Carlton dance.
Gak Slime Challenge
Gak, the colorful, stretchy slime everyone loved in the ‘90s, can be turned into a hilarious challenge. Provide each guest with a small cup of Gak (you can either make it yourself or buy it online) and ask them to complete tasks like:
- Stretch it as far as you can
- Make the longest slime string
- Create the best slime “creature”
Award prizes to the person with the longest stretch or most creative slime creation. It’s a great way to keep guests laughing and immersed in the fun of the era.
‘90s Candy Guessing Game
Fill up a jar or container with an assortment of iconic ‘90s candies such as Pop Rocks, Ring Pops, Gobstoppers, and more. Guests can guess how many candies are in the jar. The one who gets the closest wins the jar to take home!
You could also set up a candy station for guests to fill up their own treat bags as part of the favor. This is perfect for nostalgic guests who can’t resist indulging in childhood favorites.
4. DIY Baby Shower Activities and Photo Ops
Aside from traditional games, a ‘90s-themed baby shower is a perfect opportunity to get crafty and create interactive, DIY activities that guests can enjoy and take home.
DIY Baby Shower Crafts: Bead Bracelets and Friendship Pins
The ‘90s were all about accessories. Set up a DIY craft station where guests can make their own:
- Friendship Pins: Using safety pins, beads, and charms, guests can create colorful pins to wear during the shower. Provide plenty of beads and charms in neon and pastel colors for the ultimate ‘90s vibe.
- Bead Bracelets: Guests can string together their own personalized bracelets using alphabet beads, smiley face beads, and neon-colored beads. These can also double as party favors!
Not only will these activities be a fun, hands-on experience, but they will also give everyone a keepsake to remember the party.
DIY Neon Confetti Poppers
Get guests involved in the fun by making DIY confetti poppers that channel the ‘90s party energy. You can find easy tutorials online to create poppers using toilet paper rolls and streamers in vibrant neon colors.
These poppers can be set up around the party, and guests can let them off during key moments, like when the mom-to-be opens gifts or when it’s time to toast to the baby. Plus, they make for fantastic photo opportunities!
Photo Ops: ’90s-Themed Props & Backdrops
Create a designated photo booth area with props and backdrops that will take guests straight back to their childhood. Here are a few ideas for creating the perfect ‘90s-inspired photo ops:
- Props: Inflatable boom boxes, oversized sunglasses, neon-colored hats, and fanny packs can all make for hilarious photo opportunities. These props will add fun and energy to your photo booth.
- Backdrops: A backdrop featuring graffiti-style artwork, neon signs, or VHS tape motifs will transport guests to the ‘90s. Set up a Polaroid camera station for instant memories that guests can take home.
To make it even more ‘90s, incorporate a retro photo filter effect that makes photos look like they were taken with a disposable camera. It will surely capture the spirit of the era!
90s-Inspired Baby Name Predictions
This is a fun and interactive way for guests to get involved in the party. Set up a station where guests can write down their predictions for the baby’s name, but here’s the twist: the names should be inspired by ‘90s celebrities or pop culture figures.
Some examples include:
- Boys: Keanu, JTT, Brad, or Will.
- Girls: Britney, Gwen, or Shannon.
At the end of the shower, the mom-to-be can read out the predictions. It’s a lighthearted and nostalgic way to incorporate more ‘90s vibes into the celebration.
5. Unique ‘90s-Themed Favors and Takeaways
The final touch to your ‘90s-themed baby shower is sending your guests home with some fun and quirky party favors. These should be a mix of nostalgic goodies and playful ‘90s references that will leave everyone smiling.
Customized ‘90s Party Favors
- Neon Slap Bracelets: These were all the rage in the ‘90s, and they still make for a fun party favor. Guests can wear them throughout the event or take them home as a nostalgic memento.
- Tamagotchi Keychains: You can either gift small, inexpensive Tamagotchis (digital pets) or create custom keychains that look like the famous handheld toys.
- Glow-in-the-Dark Goodies: Provide guests with glow-in-the-dark trinkets, such as glow bracelets or glowing pens. These are fun throwbacks to the neon-heavy parties of the ‘90s.
Personalized Baby Shower Favors
- ‘90s-Themed Candy Bags: Fill small bags with candy that was popular during the ‘90s, such as Fruit by the Foot, Ring Pops, and Push Pops.
- ‘90s Movie Quote Mugs: Customize coffee mugs with quotes from ‘90s films like Clueless, The Sandlot, and Home Alone. These can be used as party favors or even for hot chocolate or coffee stations at the shower.
Thank You Cards: Retro Style
The last thing your guests will remember is the thank you card. Rather than a typical card, opt for something more fun and ‘90s-inspired. Use bold neon colors, funky fonts, and pop culture references. You could even include a memorable quote from a ‘90s show to tie it all together.
6. ‘90s-Themed Food and Drink Ideas
A baby shower isn’t just about the games and décor—it’s also about indulging in delicious, nostalgic treats. To bring your ‘90s theme to life, you’ll want to serve foods and drinks that will transport everyone back to the decade of neon colors, iconic snacks, and unforgettable flavors. Let’s dive into some unique and fun ideas for your ‘90s-inspired baby shower menu!
Iconic ‘90s Snacks
One of the easiest ways to add a nostalgic touch to your baby shower is by including snacks that were popular in the ‘90s. Here are a few favorites to consider:
- Dunkaroos: These delicious, frosting-filled cookies were a lunchbox staple in the ‘90s. While they are still available in some places, you can easily make your own version with sugar cookies and frosting for dipping.
- Fruit Roll-Ups: Another throwback treat that’ll have everyone’s taste buds doing a happy dance. Serve these in fun shapes and colors, or make mini ones to add a twist.
- Gushers: These chewy, fruit-filled snacks were iconic in the ‘90s. Set up a snack table with packs of Gushers for guests to grab throughout the party.
- Pizza Rolls and Bagel Bites: These bite-sized snacks were the go-to snack for every ‘90s kid’s after-school craving. Serve them warm with dipping sauces like marinara, ranch, or cheese.
- Totino’s Pizza: No ‘90s party is complete without a classic frozen pizza. Whether you serve it in mini slices or full-size pizzas, this nostalgic food will definitely be a crowd-pleaser.
Retro Candy Bar
Create a candy bar with all the best sweets from the ‘90s, so your guests can reminisce while satisfying their sweet tooth. Here’s a list of candies that will take you straight back to childhood:
- Ring Pops: The candy that doubles as a fashionable accessory.
- Pop Rocks: Remember the explosion of fizzy sweetness? Provide these for some interactive fun.
- Nerds: These tiny, crunchy, sugar-packed treats come in all sorts of fun flavors and colors.
- Airheads: A chewy, fruity treat that will have everyone reminiscing about the playground days.
- Smarties: A nostalgic, affordable treat for guests to pop into their mouths during the party.
Make the candy bar even more fun by using vintage candy wrappers, clear containers, and small bags for guests to fill up and take home as favors.
‘90s-Themed Baby Shower Cake
What’s a party without a showstopping cake? For a ‘90s-inspired baby shower, you’ll want a cake that screams nostalgia. Here are a few ideas for an unforgettable cake:
- Retro Cartoon Cake: If the mom-to-be is a fan of ‘90s cartoons, such as Rugrats, The Magic School Bus, or Hey Arnold!, a cake decorated with these characters would be a hit. You can have an edible image of the characters or use fondant to create a 3D version of Tommy Pickles or Reptar.
- CD Cake Design: Take a cue from the ‘90s music scene by creating a cake that looks like a CD. You can use silver fondant and edible food paint to create a glossy, reflective effect. Bonus points for adding a retro music note design!
- Neon Party Cake: Go all out with a neon-colored, layered cake. Use bright shades like electric pink, yellow, and blue for a vibrant and colorful design. Top it off with candy pieces like Skittles or neon sprinkles for an extra fun touch.
Retro Drinks: ‘90s-Inspired Beverages
No party is complete without some signature drinks, and for a ‘90s-themed baby shower, you’ll want to serve drinks that everyone will recognize. Try these:
- Surge Soda: If you want to go full-on nostalgia, serve up some classic Surge soda. This citrus-flavored drink was a major hit in the ‘90s and is making a comeback in some areas. If Surge isn’t available, try stocking up on other popular sodas from the decade, like Fanta or Mountain Dew.
- Fruit Punch: Create a classic ‘90s-style fruit punch using orange juice, pineapple juice, and grenadine. Serve it in large pitchers for a retro touch. You can even add a fun twist by serving it in neon-colored cups.
- Capri Sun: While it’s usually associated with kids, Capri Sun is one of the ultimate ‘90s beverages. You can serve this nostalgic drink in a fun “adult version” by adding a splash of vodka or rum. To stay on-theme, use fruit punch or tropical flavors.
- Slushies: Serve icy, fruity slushies in vibrant colors like bright pink, blue, or yellow. You can make them non-alcoholic for the baby shower crowd or add some vodka or rum for a grown-up twist. These frozen drinks are perfect for adding a fun and refreshing vibe to the event.
DIY “Gak” Jello Shots (Optional for Adults)
For a creative adult-friendly treat, consider making “Gak” Jello shots that mimic the famous slime of the ‘90s. You can use neon-colored gelatin and serve it in small cups or fun molds to make them extra playful. If you want to keep the vibe lighthearted, these Jello shots could even be made with non-alcoholic gelatin for a kid-friendly version that’s just as fun.
7. ‘90s-Themed Baby Shower Decor Ideas
Now that we’ve covered the food and drinks, let’s talk about how to make your ‘90s baby shower pop with vibrant, nostalgic decor. Whether you’re going for a bold neon look or a more retro vibe, these decor ideas will transport guests straight into the heart of the ‘90s.
Neon Everything
When it comes to a ‘90s-themed party, neon is your best friend. Think neon streamers, balloons, and garlands that make the space feel like an ‘90s rave. Here are some ideas:
- Neon Balloons: Cluster a variety of neon-colored balloons in shades of pink, green, yellow, and blue around the room. Use them as a backdrop or as part of a fun photo op.
- Neon Signs: Customize neon signs with ‘90s references or phrases like “I heart the ‘90s” or “Party Like It’s 1999.” These signs will not only light up the room but add a true ‘90s aesthetic.
- Neon Tableware: Plates, cups, napkins, and utensils in bright neon colors will bring the party together. If you’re using plastic cups, consider custom cups with fun ‘90s sayings or logos.
Graffiti Art Backdrop
Nothing says ‘90s like bold, colorful graffiti. If you want to add some street-style flair to your baby shower decor, consider creating a graffiti-inspired backdrop. This could include:
- Spray-painted letters or symbols that look like they’re straight from a ‘90s skate park or hip-hop album cover.
- Bold, oversized fonts that say things like “It’s a Girl!” or “It’s a Boy!” in vibrant colors, reminiscent of the early hip-hop era.
- Graffiti-inspired tablecloths or placemats for a fun and modern touch to your dinner setting.
Throwback TV and Movie Props
Bring the ‘90s TV shows and movies that everyone loves into your baby shower decor:
- Old-School TV Sets: Use small vintage-looking TVs as centerpieces or place them on shelves as a fun conversation piece. You could even fill them with flowers or fake baby bottles for a cute twist.
- Movie Posters: Frame posters from ‘90s classics like The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Clueless, and Friends, and hang them around the venue.
- Iconic TV Show Items: Incorporate items like the Friends Central Perk coffee cups or Saved by the Bell lockers as photo op spots or focal points.
8. ‘90s Baby Shower Game Ideas
Games are a vital part of any baby shower, but for a ‘90s-themed event, you’ll want games that not only engage your guests but also bring back those sweet memories of childhood. Forget the usual party games—let’s step up the fun with some ‘90s-inspired alternatives that are sure to get everyone laughing, reminiscing, and competing like it’s 1995.
1. ‘90s Trivia Game
Test your guests’ knowledge of ‘90s pop culture with a fun trivia game. Include questions about iconic ‘90s TV shows, movies, music, toys, and slang. Here are some example categories and questions to get started:
- TV Shows: “What was the name of the high school in Saved by the Bell?” (Answer: Bayside High)
- Music: “Who sang the hit song ‘…Baby One More Time’?” (Answer: Britney Spears)
- Toys: “Which toy featured an iconic purple dinosaur that many ‘90s kids loved?” (Answer: Barney the Dinosaur)
- Movies: “Which 1994 movie featured the famous line ‘Life is like a box of chocolates’?” (Answer: Forrest Gump)
2. ‘90s Charades
Charades is a classic party game, but it’s even more fun when you add a ‘90s twist! Write down popular phrases, movies, songs, or characters from the ‘90s for guests to act out. Some great ideas include:
- Popular TV Shows: Friends, The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Saved by the Bell
- Songs: “I Will Always Love You” by Whitney Houston, “No Scrubs” by TLC, “My Heart Will Go On” by Celine Dion
- Icons/Characters: The Spice Girls, The Rugrats characters, Mario from Super Mario Bros.
This game is sure to bring laughter as guests try to act out their favorite ‘90s references.
3. ‘90s Slang Challenge
Have a ‘90s slang contest to see who can remember the most iconic phrases from the decade. Write down slang terms like “All that and a bag of chips,” “As if!” and “Talk to the hand” on separate pieces of paper, and have each guest try to guess the meaning. You can also play by having guests use the slang words in sentences, and everyone else will vote on how “authentically” they said it!
4. ‘90s Dance-Off
Who doesn’t love busting a move? Set up a dance floor and challenge guests to recreate famous ‘90s dances, like the Macarena, the Electric Slide, or the Running Man. You could even have a mini competition to see who does the best “TLC dance” or the most iconic “spinning move” from The Fresh Prince opening credits.
Tip: Play ‘90s jams during the contest to keep everyone in the groove!
5. ‘90s Toy Relay Race
For a more active game, organize a relay race where guests must complete challenges inspired by ‘90s toys. Here are some fun ideas:
- Skip-It Race: Remember the Skip-It? Set up a racecourse and have guests race by hopping along with the Skip-It on one foot.
- Beanbag Toss (with Beanie Babies): Place Beanie Babies (or similar plush toys) in baskets, and have guests toss them into hoops or other targets.
- Tamagotchi Challenge: See who can take care of a “virtual pet” the longest in a timed challenge. You can either use actual Tamagotchis or print out “pet-care” sheets for a more affordable option.
6. ‘90s-Style MASH Game
MASH (Mansion, Apartment, Shack, House) was a classic ‘90s game that foretold everyone’s future. Set up a big MASH board and let guests play to see what their future holds. You can include categories such as:
- Dream Job: What will you do for a living in the future? (TV Star, Scientist, Teacher, etc.)
- Spouse: Who will your soulmate be? (You can put celebrity names or make it more personal with the names of friends or family members.)
- Home: Where will you live? (A mansion, a cozy apartment, a shack, or a house)
You can even use a retro version of a MASH board on a big poster to bring more ‘90s charm!
7. ‘90s Memory Lane Game
In this memory challenge game, create a list of ‘90s items or themes and have guests try to guess which items were actually from the ‘90s. For example:
- Goosebumps Books (Yes, a popular book series)
- Furby (Yes, a robotic toy)
- Pogs (Yes, a collectible game)
- Tamagotchis (Yes, a handheld virtual pet)
The person who guesses the most items correctly wins a prize.
9. Baby Shower Favors Inspired by the ‘90s
No party is complete without some take-home favors. Let’s go beyond the typical trinkets and really embrace the nostalgia with ‘90s-inspired party favors. From candy to accessories, these favors will have your guests feeling like they’ve stepped into a time machine. Here are a few ideas:
1. Slap Bracelets
Slap bracelets were a total trend during the ‘90s, and now they’re making a comeback as quirky, fun party favors. You can find packs of colorful slap bracelets in bulk, or customize them with fun phrases or the baby shower date. These favors are sure to be a hit!
2. Lisa Frank-Inspired Stationery
If you were a ‘90s kid, you probably remember collecting Lisa Frank stickers, folders, and notebooks. Why not gift guests with adorable Lisa Frank-inspired stationery? Custom notebooks, stickers, or pens featuring bright colors and whimsical designs are perfect for a throwback favor.
3. Mini Fanny Packs
Mini fanny packs were a key accessory of the ‘90s, and they’ve made a stylish return! You can buy small, affordable fanny packs in a variety of colors and fill them with treats like candy, confetti, or mini party favors. These would also make for fun favor bags for guests to take home.
4. Classic Candy Bags
Set up a small candy station with all your favorite ‘90s treats, and let guests fill up little bags to take home. Include items like:
- Nerds
- Gushers
- Ring Pops
- Airheads
- Pop Rocks
- Lollipops with ‘90s logos
5. Custom ‘90s Buttons or Pins
Add a fun, customizable touch by gifting guests with ‘90s-inspired buttons or pins. Think “I love the ‘90s,” “I’m with the 90s crew,” or buttons with famous quotes from TV shows like Friends or The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. These are not only nostalgic but also great for your guests to wear!
6. Temporary Tattoos
Temporary tattoos were all the rage in the ‘90s, and they still provide endless fun for people of all ages. Customize temporary tattoos with baby shower-themed designs, or include ‘90s symbols like peace signs, smiley faces, and neon colors.
10. Conclusion
A ‘90s-themed baby shower is a great way to honor the decade that brought us so many iconic moments in pop culture, fashion, and food. From the décor to the games, food, and favors, you can infuse nostalgia into every part of the event while creating a memorable experience for the mom-to-be and her guests. By mixing in nostalgic touches from the 1990s, you’ll create a fun and engaging atmosphere that’s sure to have everyone reminiscing about their favorite childhood moments. So go ahead, throw it back to the days of neon colors, Tamagotchis, and the Fresh Prince. It’s going to be “all that and a bag of chips!”
11. Final Touches: Making the ’90s Baby Shower Truly Unforgettable
Now that you’ve nailed the décor, games, and favors, it’s time to put the final touches on your ‘90s-themed baby shower. These extra details will not only bring everything together, but they’ll also create those picture-perfect moments that will have your guests raving about the event for years to come. From photo ops to last-minute fun ideas, here’s how to make sure your shower is a nostalgic hit.
1. Photo Booth with ‘90s Props
No ‘90s party is complete without a photo booth full of iconic props. Create a DIY photo booth station with a backdrop that screams ‘90s, such as graffiti-style posters, neon colors, or even a fresh throwback to the Fresh Prince set. Add fun props like oversized sunglasses, inflatable cell phones, mini boom boxes, and, of course, a classic Polaroid camera. Guests will love taking goofy pictures and capturing those special memories from the day.
Tip: You can easily rent or buy a photo booth package with all the props included for less hassle.
2. Neon Glow Party
Bring the ‘90s vibe to the next level by incorporating some neon fun. Add neon-colored lights, glow sticks, and black light decorations to really amp up the mood as the party progresses. Guests can grab glow necklaces or bracelets upon arrival, and the dance floor will light up with the colors of the ‘90s. This is also a great opportunity to add some DIY glow stick confetti poppers to the décor or fun table centerpieces.
3. Nostalgic Playlist
No matter how much ‘90s décor you have, the right playlist can make or break the mood. Curate a mix of the best tracks from the ‘90s and make sure to include a bit of everything—pop, hip-hop, alternative, and classic hits. Here are a few suggestions to get you started:
- Pop Hits: Britney Spears, Backstreet Boys, *NSYNC, Spice Girls
- Hip-Hop/R&B: Salt-N-Pepa, TLC, The Notorious B.I.G., 2Pac
- Rock & Alternative: Nirvana, Pearl Jam, Oasis, Green Day
- TV Show Theme Songs: The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air theme, Saved by the Bell theme, Friends theme
To make it even more fun, let guests suggest their own favorite ‘90s songs on a “DJ request card” to play throughout the event.
4. DIY ‘90s-Inspired Crafts
If you have a crafty crowd, set up a DIY station where guests can create their own ‘90s-inspired accessories to wear at the party. Offer materials to make friendship bracelets, decorate scrunchies, or create their own slap bracelets. You could also set up a “craft your own Lisa Frank folder” station where guests can design their own colorful folders with markers, stickers, and glitter. These DIY stations are a great way to keep everyone engaged and add an extra layer of nostalgia.
5. Vintage ‘90s-Inspired Cake and Desserts
The cake is often the centerpiece of any baby shower, and for a ‘90s theme, it should be as fun and funky as the decade itself. Instead of the typical pastel-colored cakes, go for something that channels ‘90s patterns and colors—think neon, graffiti, or even the Saved by the Bell theme with its bright geometric patterns. Don’t forget to add mini figurines of popular ‘90s characters like the Rugrats, or characters from The Simpsons.
Dessert Ideas:
- Cake Pops decorated with neon-colored icing or ‘90s logos.
- Gummy candies, like neon-colored worms or ring pops, which will add a playful touch.
- Cupcakes with toppings that resemble ‘90s icons, such as Pac-Man, Tamagotchis, or retro boomboxes.
If you want to be extra nostalgic, include a DIY Gak station (that gooey, colorful slime from the ‘90s) where guests can make their own slime to take home.
6. Custom Party Invitations
Start the nostalgia right from the invite! Choose a design that screams the ‘90s from the get-go—think neon colors, graffiti fonts, or even Friends or The Fresh Prince inspired invites. You can personalize them with fun quotes from ‘90s shows like “How you doin’?” from Friends or “Yo, homes to Bel-Air!” from The Fresh Prince.
Don’t forget to mention in the invitation that guests should come dressed in their ‘90s best, whether that’s denim overalls, scrunchies, or crop tops. You could even include a fun poll to ask guests which ‘90s character they’re most excited to channel at the event.
12. Wrapping Up: Celebrating the ‘90s Like No Other
With all the ideas, games, and creative elements, a ‘90s-themed baby shower is bound to be a hit. From vibrant décor to nostalgic music, from classic toys to themed games, everything you need to create a memorable and fun-filled celebration is right at your fingertips. The best part? It’s a celebration of both the past and the future. The mom-to-be will get to experience the joy of being surrounded by family and friends while reliving some of the most iconic moments of her childhood. It’s a perfect way to honor her journey into motherhood while having a blast.
So get ready to throw a ‘90s party that even the Fresh Prince would approve of. After all, no one said baby showers had to be boring!
Key Takeaways
- ‘90s-Themed Décor: Bright neon colors, iconic patterns, and throwback items like cassette tapes, boom boxes, and old-school cartoons will set the tone.
- Games: Spice up traditional games with ‘90s-inspired trivia, MASH, and dance-offs to keep guests engaged.
- Favors: Slap bracelets, Lisa Frank stationery, and nostalgic candies will bring a fun, retro twist to your party favors.
- Final Touches: A custom photo booth, DIY craft stations, and the perfect ‘90s playlist will take your baby shower from good to unforgettable.
Throw a party that’s a true blast from the past—because in the world of baby showers, nothing says “cool” quite like the ‘90s.