Planning a Baby Shower
Planning a baby shower is loads of fun — whether you’re the mom-to-be, a relative or friends of the family!
A baby shower is a wonderful way to congratulate the expectant parents and it allows friends and family members to express their love and best wishes.
The last months of a pregnancy are a magical time of anticipation. It’s customary for the shower to be organized by a relative or close friend during this time, as everyone prepares for the arrival of the new baby.
In many ways, a baby shower is just like any party in that it requires thorough preparation to go well. A carefully planned shower allows everyone to enjoy the event to the fullest and lets the organizers take part in the fun along with the guests.
If you’re in charge of the planning, here are a few tips to help you arrange a fun party that will be memorable for everyone and allow all the guests to share in the joy of the parents-to-be.
Decide early on where you want to hold the party — for example:
- in the new mom’s home?
- in a garden or back yard?
- in a local bar or restaurant?
Will the shower have a theme?
- what are the expectant parents’ interests?
- do they have a favorite movie or place to relax?
- is there a location from their honeymoon or a recent holiday that could be re-created — such as a Hawaiian beach, a European cafe or a cruise ship?
Do the parents know the sex of the baby?
- If so, the baby’s imminent arrival could be celebrated with appropriate colors, patterns etc.
What food will be most appropriate?
- finger food?
- a sit-down meal or a buffet?
Will there be games or activities to complement the food?
- baby shower games?
- charades etc?
Plan the guest list and send out invitations - consider:
- important guests to include?
- baby themed invitations?
- a gift registry?
