If you’re here for Parisian or French themed baby shower tips, it means you’re looking for elegance. You’re looking for elegance to go along with a fun time! Well, you’re in the right place.
In this article, you’ll find all the ideas you need to throw a stunning Parisian or French themed baby shower for yourself or for someone special.
Here is a curated list of French Parisian themed baby shower ideas for an elegant celebration. They’re divided into sections of invitations and stationery, decor, entertainment, food and party favours.
Get planning!
Invitations and stationery
Creating invitations and stationery for a French themed baby shower is a unique chance to transport your guests to the charm and elegance of France right from the start. Here’s how to craft or select the perfect elements for a French or Parisian-themed baby shower:
1. Eiffel Tower invitations
DIY: For a personal touch, start with high-quality, cream-colored cardstock as your base. Use a silhouette of the Eiffel Tower as the main graphic element—this can be achieved through stamping, stenciling, or even elegant Eiffel Tower stickers. Incorporate soft pastel colors, such as blush pink or baby blue, for text or accents to maintain a gentle, inviting feel.
Script fonts will add a sophisticated touch, reminiscent of Parisian elegance.
If you’re purchasing, look for invitations that feature detailed illustrations or artistic representations of the Eiffel Tower. Gold foil accents can add a luxurious touch, while watercolor backgrounds give a soft, romantic ambiance. Make sure the typography matches the Parisian theme, with classic fonts that evoke the charm of Paris.
2. French macaron RSVP cards
If you’re DIY: Design your RSVP cards to resemble colorful French macarons. You can use circular cardstock cutouts in macaron colors like pistachio green, lavender, or rose pink. On one side, print or write the RSVP details and on the other, include a playful macaron graphic. To add texture, consider using a slight puff paint around the edges to mimic the macaron “feet.”
What to look for: Get cards that creatively incorporate the macaron design, perhaps with a stack of macarons in various pastel shades. The text should be concise and sweet, keeping in line with the theme. Look for cards that come with envelopes in matching colors or with a small macaron sticker to seal the envelope.
3. Parisian cafe menu programs
DIY: Create menu programs that mimic the look of a chalkboard menu from a quaint Parisian café. Use black cardstock as your base and white or silver gel pens to write the menu items in an elegant, cursive script. Embellish the corners with small, drawn Parisian icons like café tables, croissants or a tiny Eiffel Tower. For an added touch, you could age the edges with distress ink to give it a vintage feel.
If opting for pre-made options, search for menu cards that have a chalkboard background, detailed with vintage Parisian elements or café-style typography. The card should be easy to read, with clear sections for appetizers, main courses and desserts, all tying back to the French theme with classic French dishes or pastries listed.
4. Vintage postcard Thank You notes
DIY: To craft your thank you notes, start with postcard-sized, aged paper or cardstock with a slightly yellowed or parchment texture. Print or stamp a vintage Paris scene on one side—classic landmarks or a Parisian streetscape work beautifully. On the other side, leave space for the message and address, dividing the card in the traditional postcard fashion.
Use script writing or calligraphy to thank your guests, adding a personal Parisian touch.
If you choose to buy them instead, look for thank you notes that have authentic vintage Paris or French postcard designs. Ideally, these should feature iconic imagery, such as the Eiffel Tower, Montmartre, or vintage Parisian postage stamps. The note section should allow ample space for a heartfelt message, maintaining the elegance and romance of your Parisian baby shower theme.
From the Eiffel Tower invitations to the vintage postcard thank you notes, each piece should evoke the spirit of Paris!
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Decor and ambiance
Creating a French or Parisian-themed baby shower transports guests to the charming streets of Paris, where elegance meets romance. Here’s how to set up decor and ambiance that will make your Parisian baby shower unforgettable:
1. Eiffel Tower centerpieces
For an instantly recognizable Parisian vibe, Eiffel Tower centerpieces are a must. Look for miniature Eiffel Tower models that you can adorn with strings of pearls or fairy lights. Place them on mirrored bases to enhance the effect of the lights, adding a chic and sophisticated touch to your tables. These centerpieces can be surrounded by small floral arrangements or scattered faux diamonds to mimic the sparkling lights of Paris at night.
2. French floral arrangements
French floral arrangements should exude a sense of refined elegance and natural beauty, typical of a Parisian garden. Opt for lush, pastel-colored flowers like peonies, lavender, roses and hydrangeas. Arrange them in vintage vases or rustic metal pitchers to add a touch of French country charm.
Incorporate greenery such as eucalyptus or ivy to give the arrangements a full, vibrant look, creating an ambiance that’s both romantic and inviting.
3. Parisian street lamp lighting
Lighting plays a crucial role in setting the mood for your Parisian baby shower. To recreate the enchanting atmosphere of Parisian streets, look for street lamp-style lighting fixtures or lanterns. These can be placed strategically around your venue or as part of the table settings. For an indoor event, standing street lamp replicas can illuminate corners or entryways, while outdoor events can benefit from smaller, battery-operated lamps placed on tables or hanging from trees.
4. French bistro table settings
Capture the essence of a quaint Parisian café with your table settings. Use bistro-style chairs and round tables, if available, and cover them with classic checkered tablecloths or crisp white linen. Each place setting can include vintage china, elegant silverware, and crystal glassware to add a touch of sophistication. Maybe use menu cards designed to resemble those found in Parisian cafés, detailing the delicacies your guests can expect to enjoy.
5. Chandelier decorations
No Parisian-themed event would be complete without the luxurious touch of chandeliers. Whether real or faux, chandeliers can transform any space into an opulent Parisian salon. Look for styles with intricate metalwork and sparkling crystals that cast a soft, ambient light throughout the venue. If full-sized chandeliers are not an option, opt for miniature versions that can hang over each table or larger ones to serve as the event’s centerpiece.
These will create a visually stunning experience but also transport your guests to the heart of France, making for a memorable celebration of life and love.
French-inspired cuisine
1. Croissant bar
A croissant bar is quintessentially French and a delightful way to welcome guests. Set up a buffet table with a selection of fresh croissants, including classic, almond, chocolate, and ham and cheese varieties. Accompany these with various jams, honey, and butter for spreading. Decorate the table with French-themed linens and a miniature Eiffel Tower to emphasize the French Parisian theme baby shower. Consider adding small chalkboard signs to label each type of croissant and spread.
2. Cheese and charcuterie platter
A lavish cheese and charcuterie platter is essential for any French-themed gathering. Select a range of French cheeses, such as Brie, Camembert, Roquefort and Comté, alongside an assortment of cured meats, including saucisson, jambon de Bayonne, and pâté. Garnish your platter with grapes, nuts, figs and olives. Serve with an assortment of bread, including baguette slices. For an authentic touch, display your platter on a wooden board or a marble slab, and don’t forget to include cheese knives and small forks for easy serving.
3. French macaron tower
A tower of French macarons not only serves as a stunning centerpiece but also a delectable treat for your guests. Choose macarons in pastel colors to match the baby shower theme or in a variety of flavors to offer something for everyone. Construct the tower on a tiered stand or a specially designed macaron tower display. This eye-catching feature will certainly be a talking point and embodies the elegance of a French Parisian theme baby shower.
4. Champagne toast
No French celebration is complete without a champagne toast. Set up a champagne bar with a few selections of sparkling wine or authentic French champagne. Provide a variety of fresh fruit like strawberries and raspberries, as well as fruit purees for guests to create their own champagne cocktails. Flutes should be arranged elegantly on the table, with a sign inviting guests to join in the toast to celebrate the upcoming arrival.
5. Crepe station
A crepe station offers a customizable and interactive culinary experience. Whether you opt for a professional to man the station or go the DIY route with a crepe maker, offer both sweet and savory fillings: from classic lemon and sugar, Nutella and fresh berries to ham, cheese and sautéed mushrooms. Decorate the station with French bistro-inspired decor, including a black and white striped canopy, a chalkboard menu, and bunches of lavender or other French flowers.
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Dessert table delights
Here’s how you can bring a taste of Paris to your celebration through delectable desserts and thematic decorations.
1. Eiffel Tower cake
For a standout centerpiece, an Eiffel Tower cake embodies the spirit of Paris like nothing else. When searching for or designing this cake, opt for a reputable baker skilled in architectural cakes. The cake should not only resemble the Eiffel Tower in shape but also incorporate classic French flavors like chocolate, vanilla bean or lavender. Consider a base decorated with Parisian landmarks or floral motifs to further emphasize the French Parisian theme baby shower.
2. Petit Four assortment
Petit fours are the epitome of French dessert elegance, making them a must-have for your shower. Look for an assortment that includes a variety of flavors and colors to add visual interest to your dessert table. Traditional choices like raspberry, lemon, almond and chocolate are always popular. Arrange them on tiered cake stands interspersed with fresh flowers or miniature Eiffel Tower decorations to enhance the Parisian atmosphere.
3. French pastries display
A display of French pastries can transport your guests straight to a Parisian patisserie. Include classics such as croissants, pain au chocolat, madeleines, and tarte tatin. For the authentic Parisian flair, present these pastries on elegant serving platters, using doilies and lace accents. Label each pastry with small chalkboard signs written in a whimsical script to add to the Parisian café vibe of your French Parisian theme baby shower.
4. Chocolate eclair tower
Instead of a traditional cake, a chocolate éclair tower is a chic and innovative dessert option. Construct the tower using éclairs filled with vanilla or coffee cream and topped with smooth chocolate glaze. For stability, consider a conical structure or use a tiered stand where éclairs are artfully arranged. This tower can serve as both a delicious treat and a striking decorative piece that celebrates French culinary artistry.
5. Parisian cupcake toppers
Cupcakes are a beloved dessert option, and Parisian-themed toppers are a simple yet effective way to tie them into your theme. Look for toppers shaped like the Eiffel Tower, French poodles, fleur-de-lis, or even small berets. If you’re crafty, you might want to make these toppers yourself using cardstock and toothpicks. Arrange the cupcakes on a vintage cake stand or decorate them around a centerpiece that complements the overall décor of your French Parisian theme baby shower.
Each of these dessert options is a nod to the elegance and romance of Paris.
Entertainment and activities
When planning a baby shower with a French Parisian theme, it’s essential to immerse your guests in the ambiance and culture of France. Here are some French Parisian activity ideas to add an authentic touch to your celebration:
1. French music playlist
Creating a French music playlist is essential for setting the mood. Look for classic French chansons from artists like Édith Piaf, Charles Aznavour and Serge Gainsbourg. Include contemporary French music to add variety, ensuring there’s something to suit all tastes. Platforms like Spotify or Apple Music are great for curating playlists. The music should be lively enough to keep the atmosphere upbeat but not so overpowering that it hinders conversation.
2. Parisian-themed photo booth
A Parisian-themed photo booth is a fun way for guests to capture memories of the day. Set up a backdrop featuring iconic Parisian imagery such as the Eiffel Tower, cobblestone streets, or a café scene. Provide props like berets, mustaches on sticks, champagne glasses and faux pearl necklaces. Make sure there’s a camera on a tripod or hire a photographer. You might also want to include a sign with the hashtag for the baby shower so guests can share their photos on social media.
3. Eiffel Tower coloring station
For an engaging and creative activity, an Eiffel Tower coloring station can entertain guests of all ages. Provide outline images of the Eiffel Tower and Parisian scenes, along with crayons, markers, and colored pencils. This station can also serve as a unique way for guests to create keepsakes for the mom-to-be. Think about framing the best artworks as a memento of the day or compiling them into a book for the baby’s nursery.
4. French baby shower trivia game
Organize a French-themed trivia game to test guests’ knowledge about France, its culture, and famous landmarks. Include questions related to French baby traditions, famous French children’s stories or characters (like The Little Prince), and fun facts about Paris. You can format this as a quiz with individual play or team play to encourage interaction. Offer small prizes for winners, such as French chocolates or macarons, to keep with the theme.
Party favors and gifts
Sophisticated baby shower themes like a French Parisian motif make the celebration even more fun, infusing it with elegance, charm and a touch of international flair. To encapsulate this essence in your baby shower, focus on details that reflect sophistication and French culture.
1. French lavender sachets
For a touch of Provence, French lavender sachets make exquisite favors. Look for sachets made with high-quality, aromatic French lavender. Choose fabrics that align with your color scheme, preferably in chic, subtle hues or patterns that evoke French country style. You might also opt for custom tags with the baby shower date and a sweet message, like “A Scent of Sophistication from [Mom-to-be’s Name]’s Baby Shower.”
2. Eiffel Tower keychain favors
Eiffel Tower keychain favors are a perfect memento that guests can use daily, reminding them of the special day. Select keychains that embody the sophistication of your theme—those made from metal with a silver, gold, or rose gold finish tend to exude a more elegant vibe. Packaging these keychains in small velvet pouches or boxes with a thank you note in a beautiful script will add to the luxurious feel.
3. French soaps gift sets
French soaps, renowned for their quality and exquisite scents, can be assembled into charming gift sets. Look for authentic French milled soaps with natural ingredients and scents that evoke the French countryside, like lavender, rose and verbena. Present them in small baskets or wrapped in fine paper tied with a ribbon and a custom baby shower label for a personal touch that complements your sophisticated baby shower theme.
4. Mini Champagne bottles
Mini champagne bottles are a festive and sophisticated favor that celebrates the upcoming arrival. Choose French champagne or sparkling wine for authenticity, and personalize them with labels that reflect the baby shower’s theme and color palette. To make these favors even more special, add a straw or tie a small ribbon around the neck of each bottle, perhaps with a charm or a tag bearing the event’s date and a toast to the baby’s health.
5. Customized French cookies
Customized cookies are a sweet treat that can be designed to fit any baby shower theme, including a French Parisian one. Opt for flavors that are quintessentially French, like lemon madelines, almond financiers or classic buttery sablés. Have them iced or printed with Parisian motifs, such as the Eiffel Tower, fleur-de-lis, or even baby-themed designs in chic pastel colors. Display them beautifully on a dessert table or box them as take-home favors with a note of thanks from the mom-to-be.
Clothing/dress code
1. French beret and scarf for guests
Encourage the guests to immerse themselves in the theme by offering French berets and lightweight scarves as they arrive. Set up a welcoming station near the entrance where guests can select their beret and scarf, perhaps in a range of colors to match your shower’s palette. This is not only a fun icebreaker but also makes for a good keepsake or memento for the celebration.
2. Parisian chic maternity outfit for the mom-to-be
For the guest of honor, choose a maternity outfit that exudes Parisian chic. Think of elegant yet comfortable pieces such as a flowy dress paired with a tailored blazer or a sophisticated maternity dress that flatters the silhouette. Accessories like a delicate scarf, a chic clutch and comfortable yet stylish flats can complete the look, making the mom-to-be feel like a star of her Parisian-themed day.
3. Black and white attire theme
Set a dress code of black and white attire for the guests to go with the sophisticated baby shower theme. This classic color scheme mirrors the iconic fashion of Paris and adds elegance to your event. In the invitation, specify the dress code to ensure guests are part of the thematic experience.
4. Striped sailor shirts for dad-to-be
For a touch of authenticity and to involve the dad-to-be in the theme, go for a striped sailor shirt, known in France as a “marinière.” It’s a timeless piece synonymous with French fashion and will seamlessly align him with the theme. Pair it with comfortable jeans or trousers for a look that’s both thematic and practical, celebrating his role in the upcoming arrival.
Try out these ideas for a sophisticated baby shower theme that honors the elegance and allure of French and Parisian culture. Each aspect, from attire to activities, contributes to an immersive experience that celebrates the new arrival in style.
I hope the above tips help you to create a memorable and stylish celebration for yourself or for that special mom-to-be.
I’d love for you to share your personal French-themed baby shower experiences in the comments section!
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