Planning for a Baby Shower

 

The job of a baby shower hostess has changed much. It can also be anyone now in the pregnant woman's life - a friend, a relative, or even her spouse. Whichever you are, here are the most important steps to take:

 

1.            Choosing a time and date

 

You have to set a date and time for the baby shower with diaper cakes, but obviously, it will be the guest of honor - the pregnant woman - who makes the final decision. Most baby showers are held around the 7th or 8th month or pregnancy. At this time, she's probably comfortable enough to have a little party.

 

2.            Creating the guest list and budget.

 

Like any other important party, you need to make a guest list, again, in consultation with the guest of honor. Once she approves it, you can proceed to drawing up a budget so you can start looking for a venue and the food.

 

3.            Pick a venue.

 

When choosing a venue, you have to consider how many guests are expected, the budget and the particular time of year.

 

If you have the party at home, it would be intimate and cost-effective. If you're inviting lots of guests or you have more room in your budget, consider a restaurant or hotel or even a park (just make sure to have a backup plan).

 

4.            Start inviting!

 

As a rule, you should give guests at least six months' advance notice. This will give them enough time to shop for gifts, find a babysitter for their kids, etc.

 

5.            Prepare the menu and venue decor.

 

Your menu and decor should be well laid out at least three weeks before the party. Buy non-perishable decors ahead of time. Make sure your menu suits your guest of honor's tastes.

 

6.            Plan a program. 

 

Of course, you'd like to make the shower fun and memorable. Plan for the games, eating and drinking, and the opening of gifts.  The key is to organize everything so that guests, especially the guest-of-honor, enjoy the party.

 

7.            Prepare favors.

 

It's always nice to give your guests a parting gift, but it need not be extravagant. Choose party favors that are in line with your theme. For example, if the shower has a musical theme, use CDs as souvenirs. If it has a sugar-and-spice tone, prepare take-home bags of sweets. Certainly, you need to consider your guests and what they might like.

 

Remember that the guest-of-honor is the most important person in this affair. So keep her in mind in all your preparations. Read more about baby shower gift ideas.