Tips for Planning Your First Baby Shower

Springtime is peppered with special events: weddings, baby showers, birthday parties. I’ve already attended one child’s birthday party and have more coming up. With the temperatures warming up after an especially brutal winter, there is definitely reason to celebrate. Baby showers, in particular, are a time to celebrate new life and share advice with the expectant mother on parenting. If you are planning your first shower, there are things you can do to make the event go more smoothly. Check out this list for planning the special event.

Pick a hostess. While etiquette is relatively relaxed in this area, the mother or sister of the mom-to-be should typically not host the shower.

Invitations. While a phone call is sufficient, most prefer to send handwritten invitations sent through the mail. Invitations should be sent at least three weeks in advance. You can use baby shower stickers to seal your envelopes and grab the attention of the recipient.

Pick a theme. While themes aren’t necessary, they can add a greater sense of festivity. Use custom water bottle labels or soda bottle labels to enhance your theme with an extra touch of personalization. If you don’t want to do a theme, you can simply select a bright color and use brightly colored flowers and décor for the celebration.

Food. Serve food that is easy to prepare and which can be eaten at room temperature. If you’re working on a limited budget, consider requesting that guests each bring a dish and doing a potluck dinner.

Games. Decide whether or not you will play games and what kind of games your guests will enjoy. The games can tie in with the theme, be used as a way to educate the new mom (such as asking guests to write down their advice), or simply provide entertainment.