So you’re interested in hosting a babyshower but would like a few hints, no bother read on. Maybe it’s a good idea to remind readers that showers are not fixed in time: you can opt for the traditional shower or a more modern fun oriented shower. Remember you may be doing the organizing but the mom-to-be is the guest so keep her in mind! Always remember that you are throwing the shower to celebrate an occasion while helping the expectant couple out by giving them some shower gifts.
The first question we need to clear up is who is going to host the shower. Traditionally close relatives don’t host the shower. Think about it they could be accused of simply looking gifts and presents for their relation. Nowadays, that restriction has more or less gone and really anyone can plan and host the shower. That includes family members, friends and or co-workers.
It is not uncommon for the expectant mother to have more than one shower – maybe her work colleagues want to organize one, maybe who old school pals want to organize one, or those that her or her husband socialize with – anyway you get the drift. If you know there is going to be more than one shower check to see what themes are been used, it would be a bit of a disaster if two showers came up with the same theme! Also, try finding out what shower gifts were already given to avoid duplicating the shower gifts. A quiet word with the other organizer might be a good idea for both of you.
Now we’ve covered those points on to some timely tips. The first is to send invitations in a timely manner. Around 3-4 weeks in advance to the guests who live near by. For long distance shower guests, around 4-6 weeks in advance. Include directions in the invitations, you don’t want the shower guests to get lost.
When you’re guest arrive be sure to great them all at the door. A very worthwhile suggestion is to name tag everyone, remember not everyone will know everyone else in the room. If someone seems lost in the crowd introduce them to a few people and help them break the ice.
Finger food is quite acceptable at a shower but if you are sitting down and have a pre-planed seating arrangement spend a bit of time thinking about who is going to sit with who, put people together who know each other or have something in common. A middle aged nurse won’t have much in common with a computer wiz kid!
Instead of placing gifts here and there, it is appreciated to bring the gifts to the mom-to-be as she opens gifts. Don’t ask or even expect her to carry anything, especially bulky items (before and after the pregnancy). Because the time of the shower is around 1-2 months before or after, she is likely to feel weak during this time. Write down which shower guest gave which gift. This will help the mom-to-be when it comes time to send thank you cards.
Be sure to have enough shower party favors on hand. A little extra is good just in case! Get the party started on time and keep events moving at a good pace. You would be surprised just how long it can take to eat, open presents, play games, talk and eat cake. Walk guests to the door as they leave and thank them again for coming to the shower. Everybody feels special if they are given due attention.
Remember that if you are hosting the party then you should show the utmost responsibility and carefulness. A well-planned shower would be appreciated by everyone invited. You are not just attending the shower party. You are also running and organizing it too. When serving food, serve mom-to-be first and then your shower guests. You as the shower hostess should serve yourself last.