Plan the Perfect Baby Shower

There are many things to consider when planning a baby shower, but the most important thing to remember is that you need to help the mom-to-be feel loved and special. You want to include the mom-to-be without letting her run the show. You should make sure she approves the date and provides the guest list for invitations. You should also ask her if there are any specific games she would like to include and if there are any that should not be included in your plans. Follow this checklist to help you plan the best celebration.

8 Weeks Prior to the Baby Shower

• Decide on the date and time of the shower. Also, decide how long the party will last - 2 hours is usually the perfect amount of time.
• Pick a theme.
• Collect names and address from the mom-to-be.
• Decide on the location for the celebration.
• Pick the menu including beverages.
• Start preparing the invitations

6 Weeks Prior to the Baby Shower

• Finish the invitations and mail them.
• Make of list of supplies and serving utensils you need. Determine what you have what you need to purchase or borrow.

5 Weeks Prior to the Baby Shower

• Decide on decorations.
• Make sure the mom-to-be is registered at one or two baby stores.
• Chose which shower games you will play.

4 Weeks Prior to the Baby Shower

• Purchase the decorations.
• Finalize games and purchase corresponding prizes.
• Chose the party favors.
• If you are enlisting help with the menu, assign specific items to your helpers. If you are using a caterer, place your order.
• If you plan on having a cake call the bakery and place an order with them.

3 Weeks Prior to the Baby Shower

• Make decorations you plan on making.
• Borrow decorations you plan on borrowing.
• Purchase any last minute decorations

2 Weeks Prior to the Baby Shower

• Gather all your supplies. Decide if you need anything else.
• Print shower games if needed, make sure you have the prizes prepared, as well.
• If you are planning on purchasing another separate gift for the mother-to-be, purchase it and wrap it.
• Make sure the mom-to-be has a ride to the shower.

1 Week Prior to the Baby Shower

• Clean plates, utensils, bowls, glasses, etc.
• Prepare and food that can be prepared ahead of time, freeze it.
• Pick out your outfit, make sure it is laundered and pressed.
• Clean your home and the guest bathroom.

2 Days Prior to the Baby Shower

• Make a list of groceries you’ll need. Buy them.
• If you recruited others to make food, remind them to arrive early.
• Decide how you want to arrange the room, making note of the location for gifts, guest’s coats, etc.

1 Day Prior to the Baby Shower

• Make the food.
• Arrange the room.

The Big DAY

• Set out the food.
• Prepare the beverages.
• Pick up balloons if you ordered them.
• Put signs in the yard or on the street to guide guests to the shower.

Have fun!

Photo Credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/clevercupcakes/3206068355/

July 25th, 2009 by Aspen Streetman | Posted in Uncategorized | (1)