Baby showers have been around for centuries, and for good reason—they’re a lovely way to celebrate the upcoming arrival of a little one, and to help you prepare for parenthood.
Whether you’re throwing a shower for yourself or a loved one, here are some steps to help get you started.
Some people pay for the shower themselves, while others ask guests to help. When you determine how much money you have to spend, you can begin to map out a plan for the event: from how many people to invite, to how much to spend on party supplies, including food and drink.
Your location helps determine how many people you can invite (how many can fit in the space?) and whether it’s a casual or more formal affair.
Once you decide on a theme, you can start working on your invitations, gathering decorations, selecting food and beverages and planning activities that fit that theme.
To help your guests choose baby shower gifts, register at a few retailers who stock or specialize in baby gear. Make sure you register for essential items as well as higher-priced items, so that your guests can purchase items individually or purchase a larger item as a group.
A gift registry helps guests pick out the perfect gift for the new baby. Major retailers such as Target, Walmart, Babies R Us, Buy Buy Baby, and Amazon all offer registry services. Don’t forget to include a link to the registry in the invitations!
Ask key invitees (like grandparents) about their upcoming conflicts before setting a date. If you’re hosting for a loved one, ask them for a list of guests to invite.
You can mail traditional paper invitations, send an online invite or get creative! Pacifiers or rattles can serve as a cute substitute; attach a tag with all of the details. If mom and dad have registered for gifts, make sure you include the registry information in the invitation.
Purchase decorations and paper-serving products (if the event is more casual). If you’re cooking yourself, plan a menu, and closer to the date buy the food and beverages you need. Make what you can ahead of time; freeze or refrigerate it until the day of.
The most important thing is that mom, dad (if he’s invited) and guests have fun. If something unexpected happens (you forgot the cake!), laugh it off. Motherhood is not about being perfect — it’s about love, and baby showers are about sharing this love with family and friends.
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