Planning the Perfect Baby Shower
Celebrating her baby shower,
is one of the most exciting events in the
expecting mother's life.
Usually, it is a friend or family member who
will plan the baby shower. If that happens to be you, here are
some basic guidelines for planning the perfect baby shower.
Preparing Ahead of Time: The First
Critical Steps
Planning and throwing a shower can be a
cumbersome task if you go into in unprepared. It certainly
does not have to be that way, if you keep a few things in
mind. One of the most important considerations is planning
where and when the baby shower will take place. The majority
of baby showers are held before mom gives birth, but this is
not always the case and certainly does not have to be. Some
mothers are superstitious and prefer to have the baby shower
after birth, to ensure the happy and healthy delivery of their
newborn. If you are planning the happy event, check in with
mom to be to sure you plan it at a time that is comfortable
for her.
Most showers are held in someone's home other
than that of the new mom. Typically, the person throwing the
baby shower hosts the party at their house or at an alternate
location such as a park or reception hall.
Invitation List
The next step in planning a shower is figuring
out who to invite. The guest list should be the responsibility
of the guest of honor. Letting mom develop the invitation list
will ensure that no one gets left out.
Traditionally, baby showers are women-only
parties, though this trend is rapidly changing. As fathers
continue to become more involved in the planning for new
babies, many couples are starting to hold co-ed parties that
invite couples. Be sure to check in again with the guest of
honor to ensure that the theme of the party matches her
preferences.
Themes and Thrills
Deciding on a theme isn't necessary, but can
add fun and excitement to the party. The theme of the party
for an expectant parent who is having a boy baby might be
something as simple as a color, such as "green". Guests might
be encouraged to bring gifts that correspond with the nursery
room theme as well. Many parents for example, design baby's
room with a certain theme in mind such as ducks. Guests might
consider brining items that match this idea. Even the cake and
decorations can be designed to incorporate a selected topic or
idea.
No baby shower would be complete without a few
fun games. One popular and traditional game involves having
everyone get together in a circle and write down one piece of
advice for the mom to be. Another one might have everyone
write down one prediction for the new baby's future. These
cards can be collected at the end of the party and stored in
baby's memory book for review at a later date, providing a
wonderful memento for mommy-to-be and baby.
Though it is not required, some hosts provide
gag gifts for anyone participating in a game. This can be a
fun way to allow mom and guests enjoy the gift giving bonanza.
One last tip to consider prior to throwing the
party is finding out where an expectant mom is registered.
Including this information on the invitation or having it
available to give out to guests will truly help mom receive
special gifts that will match her preferences for baby's first
year. One of the reasons for throwing a shower is to help new
parents collect much needed items for baby's first year.
******* DISCLAIMER: The information on this Web site is for
reference only and is not intended nor implied to be a
substitute for professional medical advice. Although the
site's creators and contributors aim to provide the most
accurate information, it is your responsibility to verify the
validity of any information contained herein. Please check
with your infant's pediatrician if you suspect a health
problem or medical condition.
|
