Welcome to arrange baby shower

Who should be the Baby Shower host?

Generally speaking, a baby shower has traditionally been hosted by non-relatives of the mother-to-be. However, as time has passed and baby showers become more popular, it has also become more and more common for mothers, sisters, cousins, and other relatives to host such events as well. Let’s just say that it nowadays is acceptable for anyone close to the mother-to-be to host the event!
Often, the Baby Shower is thrown by multiple hosts. Besides defraying costs and responsibilities, arranging the event jointly often provides a lot of good fun! In terms of the success of the Shower, it is rarely negative with more people than one brainstorming on ideas for games to play and things to do!

Host responsibilities?

A key to being a successful Baby Shower host is obviously creating an event such that the mother-to-be will be comfortable with it. This is the most important task! Getting the mother-to-be’s view is thus a good idea. That is off course in the case the Shower is not a surprise event. If it is not, the becoming mother should have a final say on the guest list, the date of the event, themes or games, food selection, and an estimation of the length of the Shower. See here for more ideas ->

Pre-shower responsibilities

Before the Baby Shower, the host is responsible for sending out invitations to the guests on the list, being the RSVP respondent, for planning the activities which should take place during the shower, and to coordinate the gifts. Is there a list of things wished for put together by the mother-to-be? In such a case, the guests should be informed. Coordinate so that there are no doubles. What food should be served? Catering, cooking at home? All such things must have been thought of and carefully considered in advance.

During-shower responsibilities

Now, the mother-to-be should be all relaxed, talking to the guests and just enjoying the day! It is the host’s responsibility to make sure she is comfortable. The host is also taking care of the ground service on the day, such as arranging the food, greeting arriving guests, coordinating the activities of the day; gift opening, game playing, and the meal. 

Who to invite to the Shower?

To make sure that no one is forgotten, the mother-to-be should have a final saying in terms of the guests on the list. If it is a surprise Shower, a close friend or relative should be consulted to plan the guest list. Generally, anyone close to the becoming mother, close relatives, co-workers and friends are invited to celebrate the bringing of a new child into the world.

When to hold the Shower?

It is common to throw a Baby Shower one to two months prior to the planned arrival of the baby. It is however not totally uncommon for Showers to be held after the birth. In fact, some even prefer to hold the Shower post baby arrival for practical purposes. Post baby arrival, gifts can be more personalized and given in the correct size and style. In many cultures and regions, the after birth Shower is so that everyone can meet and celebrate the new arrival. In this way, the baby becomes the centre of attention, and serves as an excellent conversation starter.

Co-ed showers?

Is the becoming mother and father comfortable with the idea of a co-ed Shower? If so, why not involve the dad and his friends?

Second or third child Showers?

Of course! Baby showers are held to celebrate the arrival of a new child and to support the becoming mother. By now, however, the family probably has most of the essentials. It is thus common to buy more practical gifts, like for instance toys, diapers and formula.

Adopted children Showers?

Off course! With adopted children, it is more common that a Baby Shower takes place a couple of months after the child is adopted, as the adoption process not always proceeds according to the initial plan and schedule. Also, you might want to leave room for the parents to connect with the new child.

Where to hold a Shower?

It has traditionally been most common to hold a Baby Shower in the home of the host, or in the home of a close friend or relative. It is not uncommon today, however, to throw a Shower at a restaurant, in a park, at a day spa, or at a club. Remember to check with venues so that there are no rules against the planned activities of the Shower.

How to invite people to the Shower?

A printed invitation is probably the best way to inform people about the Baby Shower. A host may call the guests on the list and inform them, but a printed invitation provides all the specifics of the Shower and is an easy way for the guests to revert to if they forget something. A printed invitation should contain information on whom the Shower is given for, the location including address, the time of the event, name of the host(s), RSVP recipient, gift registry information, name and sex of the baby (if this is known), and if there is a theme.

What food to serve at the Shower?

It is common to serve Tapas (or finger foods), or a lunch or dinner buffet. It is rather unusual with a served meal. Beverages usually include coffee and sodas, but not alcohol (out of respect for the mother-to-be).

Should you play games at the shower?

Games are popular activities at a Baby Shower, and are fun and playful events that should contribute to getting the guests in a joyful mood, and should absolutely be part of the Shower as long as the mother-to-be has been consulted and feels comfortable with the games in question. It is common to include 1-3 games in a Shower. Games can be a good way to get things started and introduce guests to one another. Get ideas for games here.