Planning the Perfect Baby Shower

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 by: Adriana Copaceanu

One of the most exciting events an expecting mother looks forward to is celebrating her baby shower.

Deciding to Throw a Baby Shower

Baby showers are often thrown by a friend or family
member. Formal tradition dictates that someone other than a family
member throws the baby shower, but this certainly does not have to be
the case and many modern women go against the grain and welcome any
offers from family willing to throw a party on their and baby's behalf.

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 however,
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. Be sure if you are planning the
happy event to check in with mom to be to ensure 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.

Most parties held 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 incorporating a
few fun games. Deciding on games doesn't require a degree in rocket
science. 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 right 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.

About the Author

Adriana Copaceanu provides people with creative gift ideas that don't blow the bank. Gift Baskets for Baby to Birthday and Beyond, are just some gift ideas you'll find at her site: http://www.abcgiftsandbaskets.com. Want regular reminders on gift-giving? Sign up for her free monthly newsletter at http://www.abcgiftsandbaskets.com/gift-news-signup.htm

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