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Step by step tips for giving an unforgettable baby shower

by: better | last updated: December 08, 2009
Category: Baby Shower Planning | Tags: Baby Shower Games, Baby Shower Invitation, Baby Shower Favors, Baby Shower Themes

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Step by step tips for giving an unforgettable baby shower

Showering the Mom and sometimes the Dad with friendship and love is the purpose of a baby shower.

Many people are electing to hold the shower after the birth of the baby. This way the appropriate clothing can be given. It also gives Mom an easy way for many people to see the baby at one time. (This eliminates a constant stream of visitors right after the baby is born, when both Mother and baby need their rest.) Check with the mother-to-be to see when she would prefer a shower.

If you are going to hold the shower before the baby is born, you should start your planning approximately six weeks before the baby shower. Ask the mother-to-be for a complete list of guests she would like at her shower. Once you have an idea of how large the shower will be you can start making arrangements within your budget and time constraints.

Who will plan : Anyone can host a baby shower for the new "parents to be". It can be a family member, a friend, or a co-worker. If it is a surprise shower, then the family can help out with the guest list and gift items.

Budget : To determine how much the shower will cost, you will need to know the number of guests, the location of the shower, the menu, what type of party favors, and how many game prizes you will need.

Guest List : Organize your guest list by asking the parents-to-be who they would like to have at the shower. Usually this includes friends and family, but a few close co-workers may also be invited. Get address, phone numbers, and email addresses. Decide if it will be a "girl's only" shower or "couples".

Image credit: http://lilduckduck.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/02/bright-safari-theme-baby-shower-invitation-tan-border.jpg

Theme : Baby showers are fun! Be a kid again with teddy bears and stuffed animals. Or invite couples and do a buffet or outdoor party. Whatever theme you choose, remember this will be the baby's first party. Have fun!

Selecting the menu : Although your menu should reflect your theme, the time of day is as important - as well as the number of guests. Make this a day of celebration for the Mother-to-be or parents-to-be, her guests, and yourself. Consider the amount of time and room available for the shower, as well as any special dietary needs of the Mother-to-be and her guests.

Location : Choose a location that is easy to get to and will accommodate the needs of the party. Generally, baby showers are held at the home of the host. Have an idea of how many people you expect before arranging any final details.

Select the date : The baby shower is normally around six weeks before the due date of the baby's birth. However, some mothers are electing to have the party after the baby is born. Showers are held on weekends and during the week. Try to make the time and day convenient for everyone including any out-of-town guests.

Selecting the time : If most of the guests attending the shower work, then an evening or weekend shower will work best. Consider a weeknight for a change of pace if everyone lives near each other. If you choose a weekend date, plan your shower early enough in the day for all who must travel to attend. Be sure to keep in mind the Mother's schedule (naps, doctors appointments, etc.).

Invitations : Invitations can range from the casual (a phone call) to the most formal (printed invitations). You decide what will work for your shower. Be sure to include all necessary contact information. Consider also including your email if you check it every day.

Entertainment : As guests arrive, introduce them to one another. As a unique conversational item, ask your guests to wear a small photo of their child on their shirt. Who doesn't love to brag about their child?!? Another way to break the ice is to provide name tags with a small note, such as, "I attended grammar school with Susie". This is a sure way to start conversations. Make sure to offer your guests liquid refreshments and whatever else you have provided. Set the mood with lighted candles, flowers, and decorations. You want your guests to enjoy the day (or evening) as much as the guest of honor.