Planning a Baby Shower

First, let’s figure who will be officially throwing it.  Traditionally it can anyone from the mom-to-be’s coworkers, relatives or close friends. Just make sure the parents-to-be don’t end up throwing their own baby shower – that would just be sad. If you, the reader are the above mentioned planner, then read on for some general guidelines on putting a baby shower together.
When should I throw this baby bash?
There aren’t any specific traditions or guidelines on this issue, so the door is open to have it whenever it’s most convenient for the parents.

A lot of moms like to have a baby shower as a distraction from  their last trimester. That happens to be the time when parents are actively getting ready for the baby. Others even have theirs after the baby is born so that all the gifts can be specific to the baby’s sex. If  you’re planning a surprise baby shower it may be best to plan to have it during the mother’s second trimester, so you don’t surprise her straight into labor! So, whatever time you feel is best will work.

But who do I invite?
Yes, it can be a tough subject. For instance, can Uncle Cleo and Aunt May be in the same room together since they got divorced 2 years ago?

If you’re already a close relative, you probably know who won’t mix, but if you’re not so sure then the best way to ensure a problem free baby shower is to run the guest list by the parents-to-be before sending out the invitations. If the baby shower is a surprise for the parents, then go to the next closest relative for your advice. The last thing you want is a guest to ruin the entire shower for the mom and dad. Also, make sure you don’t leave anyone out that the parents really want to have. Just remember that it helps to have more than one head working on this.

What about all those invitations?
Ah yes, the all important  baby shower  invitations. Of course you need to put the basic information about the location, time of the baby shower and RSVP, but it would also be good to tell them baby shower theme if there is one. It can also be helpful to put where the couple or mom is registered, so the guest can bring appropriate baby shower gifts. As for timing, be sure to send them all out at least a few weeks before the baby shower to give people plenty of time to work it into their schedules.  .  It’s also important to include whether men are invited or if it’s an all female event.  You can choose to either have the invitations professionally made or print them yourselves. Printing your own invitations can be a great way to save money and spend it on others things like the baby shower decorations. You can find some great free printable baby shower invitations online and free invitation wording.

Which brings us to your budget:

A baby show can be as simple or extravagant as your budget allows, but there are many ways to have a classy time without breaking the bank. Look for discount shower favors to thank your party guest or free baby shower games online to enhance the festivities.