How to Throw Great Baby Showers

Throwing a top-notch baby shower takes more than simply sending out a stork-themed invite and buying a few gifts. If you're in charge of a friend or relative's shower, turning the party from so-so to super-fabulous is a must if you want to make the most of this party that celebrates a life-changing event. Although throwing a great baby shower certainly takes hard work, you'll see the payoff when the guest of honor delights in the results of your efforts.

Instructions

    • 1

      Choose a theme. Go above and beyond a simple baby focus or the traditional stork-centered shower. Think of an idea that is specific to the mommy-to-be or has a special meaning to her. For example, if she's an animal enthusiast or works as a veterinarian, try a baby-critters-and-creatures theme that features cute and cuddly babies from the animal kingdom.

    • 2

      Put together a guest list. Consult the guest of honor as to who she wants you to invite. Avoid assuming that certain people -- such as co-workers -- should go on the list. Consider both local and out-of-town guests that the soon-to-be mommy may want at her party.

    • 3

      Select a party spot. Go for a homey feel and host the shower at your own place, or reserve a party room at a local restaurant or banquet facility. Assess how much space you will need by looking at the guest list. Pick a smaller location such as a restaurant for parties under two dozen, and opt for a larger facility for a super-sized shower. Check with the rental space to make sure that you meet, and don't exceed, its occupancy limits.

    • 4

      Select invitations, going either with traditional paper invites or paperless email or Web-based versions. Align the invites with your overall party theme. Include an addendum or insert that has the name of the expectant mother's gift registry store on it.

    • 5

      Plan games and activities for the shower. Buy ready-made games, such as Baby Bingo, or create your own. For example, ask each guest to bring in a baby photo of herself or send it to you beforehand. Tack the pictures to a baby-themed bulletin board and have everyone guess who's who. Add in games that are specific to the mom-to-be, such as guessing the size of her belly or having each guest make a drawing of what they think the baby will look like.

    • 6

      Design a themed menu. Plan the food festivities with the catering staff if you are having the shower at a restaurant or hall, or create your own if you plan on hosting the party at home. Use colored foods to represent the sex of the baby, such as a boyishly blue blueberry pie or a girly pink strawberry cake. Offer an array of fruity or fancy non-alcoholic drinks for the mom-to-be and her guests. Include cute garnishes such as colored sugar or fancy drink umbrellas.

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