How to Throw a Baby Shower

She's now a mom-to-be, and the way to celebrate is with a baby shower! Women have been throwing baby showers for many years. Showers are so popular, that many women already know the basics of throwing one. But if this is your first time throwing a baby shower, perhaps you have a few questions.

Who is the baby shower for? - The mom-to-be, of course! Usually baby showers are only thrown for the first time mom-to-be, but it is becoming more and more common to throw a shower for every baby! It's also common for adoption showers to be thrown as well.

Who hosts a baby shower? - Usually the mom-to-be's mother or sisters, but any close female friend or family member can host the shower. It's common to keep the shower a secret from the mom-to-be, but lately it seems that the "surprise" tactic is less popular.

When do I throw the shower? - Baby showers are usually thrown a couple of months before the due date. Typically the shower is held off until the gender of the baby is determined, so gifts can be bought accordingly. However, showers can be thrown when the baby is born, too. If it is an adoption shower, usually the parents will wait to throw it after their new child has settled in their new home.

Who is invited to the shower? - It's traditional to invite all of the mom-to-be's closest female family members and friends. Though Jack & Jill baby showers, aka co-ed baby showers have been becoming more popular. If hosting a baby shower where you're inviting both men and women, be sure to plan accordingly! Check out our article on How to Throw a Jack & Jill Baby Shower.

Where do you throw a baby shower? - If your house or yard is large enough, you can definitely host a shower in your home. But baby showers are also thrown in restaurants, or even banquet halls, depending on the size of the guest list.

What do we do at the shower? - Eat, drink and be merry! Typically after the mom-to-be arrives, everyone will eat and then watch her open the gifts. Baby shower games are also really fun. Check out our article for 17 Fun Baby Shower Games to Play! They're really fun and great ice breakers!

What kind of food should I serve? - Whatever floats your boat! A baby shower later in the day should have a larger meal than an afternoon baby shower. Of course, you might want to serve some of the mom-to-be's favorite foods. Only you will be able to decide how much food you will need and what will be appropriate for the shower.

How should I decorate? - The decorations are all up to you. Balloons and streamers are classic; you should choose them according to your color scheme or theme, if any. You may also want to consider a banner, tablecloths, and centerpieces. If you're having a "throne" for the mom-to-be to sit on while she opens her gifts, don't forget to decorate that too.

Does she have to open the presents at the shower? - Many soon-to-be mothers choose to open their presents at home, rather than at the shower because they don't feel comfortable. Sometimes the gift opening process is also tedious, not to mention it gets messy. It's really up to the mom-to-be, though it is traditional for her to open the gifts at the shower. If she does decide to open the gifts at the shower, don't forget to make her a bow hat with all of the ribbons and bows from the presents!

How do I throw a shower on a budget? - First, figure out a budget plan and stick to it. You'll save a lot of money by throwing the shower at a home instead of a venue you have to pay for. Stick to cheaper foods if you're ordering, or cook the food yourself. Ask guests to bring desserts, and don't go all out with the decorations. And buy cheap baby shower favors.

Good luck and happy planning! You're sure to be the hostess with the most-ess after reading all of these helpful tips. Don't forget, you'll need baby shower favors to give to your guests!

© 2010 Kelsey Bowen, Little Things Baby