Planning a baby shower

PLANNING THE SHOWER BABY SHOWER Every perfect baby shower begins with good planning. While this occasion is one for family and friends to gather and have a great time, the other aspect is the gift giving to help new parents as they prepare for the birth or adoption of their child. For this reason, you typically see baby showers for first-time parents but again, with second and third children coming much later than the birth of the first child, often a baby shower is necessary in this case too. This chapter will provide solid information on how to organize a baby shower so everyone has a great time. GUEST LIST For most people hosting a baby shower, the first step is to determine the guest list. Then, invitations are sent out and the shower planned. However, it is crucial that the list be analyzed carefully. Unfortunately, this list may include people that are desperately trying to become pregnant themselves but having fertility problems. Perhaps there is a person on the list that has recently lost a child. Although the shower is exciting and a joyous occasion for the expectant mother, it can be a painful reminder to the person on the guest list. Therefore, be conscientious of the names on the list and if one person is a close friend or family member in this situation, rather than just mail an invitation, place a personal phone call prior to sending the invitation. The people invited to the baby shower will depend on the type of shower being organized. If the shower will be girls only, then obviously the guest list would be different from that of a coed shower. Typically, the list consists of family, close friends, co-workers, and perhaps a neighbor or other person that the expectant mother or father wants to invite. If there is the situation of divorced parents, this can be handled in one of two ways. If the parents are on good terms, then they can certainly get along at the shower for the sake of the baby and their son or daughter. However, if conflict exists and inviting them could be the recipe for disaster, then having two baby showers would be the wise decision. In addition, if you are the host, never assume that a certain person should be invited. On the other hand, never assume that someone should be left off the invitee list. Remember, this baby shower is for the expectant mother and father, no one else. Therefore, the final list should always be confirmed with the expectant mother or parents. Once the guest list is finalized, you will have a much better idea of the amount of food and beverages needed for the shower, as well as the utensils and tableware. Remember, if you suspect you will be planning a shower in the near future, start saving right away and talk to the in-laws to see if they would be willing to assist financially. This is not tacky at all and in fact, most of the mothers and fathers would be delighted to pitch in. When you have completed the list, remember that this does not mean everyone can attend, even if he or she wants. Therefore, be prepared to handle those who cannot attend graciously.