The anticipated arrival of a new baby is an exciting event to celebrate. Preparing to host a shower for the mother-to-be can almost seem overwhelming, but can be accomplished easily by following this baby shower checklist:
Baby Shower Checklist
1. Invitations- Get a list of the guests from the mother-to-be, complete with addresses for each guest. Mail the invitations out three weeks before the date of the shower.
2. Food - Figure out what time of day the party will be. If it is given before noon it would be a brunch, if it is given between noon and 2 it would be a luncheon, and anything after 2 would be just appetizers or hors d'oeuvres. A theme may be chosen for the food as well.
3. Dessert - This is traditionally a cake, but could be anything. Try to co-ordinate the dessert with the theme of the food.
4. Tables, Chairs & Tablecloths - Once the number of guests has been determined, it is simple to figure out how many tables & chairs will be needed. Borrowing or renting these items for the day should be planned at least a week in advance. Tablecloths may also be rented in many different colors.
5. Table Centerpieces - This is traditionally a vase with fresh flowers in it, set in the middle of the table, but could be any type of creative arrangement or decoration.
6. Utensils - If there are a large amount of guests then plastic utensils, fancy clear plastic cups and paper plates should be used. If the guest list is small, use silverware, crystal glassware and fine china.
7. Drinks - The beverages served should co-ordinate with the food. For example, a brunch themed shower could include hot tea, fresh juice and mimosas. Pitchers or punch bowls filled with the beverage of choice, as well as a pitcher of ice water, should be readily available. Have an extra bag of ice on hand as well.
8. Party Favors - The party favors should represent the baby shower theme, and should be done by the day before the party. For example, if the baby shower theme is an afternoon tea party, the favors could be pretty tea cups filled with a few bags of tea for guests to take home. Many websites offer pre-made shower favors, but favors can also be creatively made by the hostess.
9. Camera - Be sure to have a camera ready and designate someone else to take the photos. Make sure the camera batteries are charged and back up batteries are available.
10. Music - Pick music that goes with the theme of the shower to play low in the background. This makes the atmosphere feel more festive.
11. Games & Prizes - There are many shower games to choose from. Not every shower must include a game. If games are planned, no more than three games should be played. A small gift should be available for the winner of each game. If a game ends in a tie, then a question about the mom-to-be should suffice as a tie breaker.
