How to Plan a Baby Shower

However much fun baby showers can be, there are certain protocols and traditional elements you won’t want to forget.

Instructions

Step 1: Pick a date Pick a day well before the baby's due date, making certain that the expectant mother is available.
TIP: Etiquette dictates that a close friend of the mother-to-be hosts the party.
Step 2: Make sure she’s registered Check to see that the mother has registered somewhere so you can include the baby registry information on the invitation.
Step 3: Assemble a guest list Assemble a guest list and get addresses. Send invitations at least two weeks beforehand and ask for an RSVP.
Step 4: Plan the menu Plan a menu, including a cake. Ask others to help pay, or bake no-fuss foods yourself. Keep it simple and figure the amount of food according to the time of day the shower will be held.
TIP: Brainstorm for party themes that reflect the mother-to-be’s personality, humor, or tastes. Brainstorm with helpers to tie food, gifts, and games together.
Step 5: Decorate Get decorations from a party supply or baby store, using a color theme consistent with the baby’s sex, if that’s known.
Step 6: Choose baby shower games Choose baby shower games, such as "Guess the baby food" or "Jeopardy Nursery Rhymes." Scan web sites for ideas, games, and resources for baby showers.
TIP: Baby showers can often be co-ed, including the father-to-be and his male friends.
Step 7: Send invitations Send the invitations, being sure to include the date, time, and location.
FACT: Did you know? Baby showers became common after World War II, during the baby boom of the 1940s and 1950s.