Getting Started on Planning a Great Baby Shower

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When it comes to baby shower planning, there is a lot to do! If you are in the midst of preparing for one then you are probably nodding your head in agreement. Like any party planning, you will need to be organized and focused. First you need to have a vision of how the baby shower is going to appeal to the five senses.

How Will it Look?
What Sounds Will You Hear?
What Smell Will be in the Air?
What Will People Feel and What Will they Taste?

Details that should be taken into account are the food you will serve, how the decorations are to be arranged, possibly the music that you will play, how to set the atmosphere so people will be comfortable (think furniture arrangement), and what you want people to smell, such as fresh baked cookies or maybe scented candles. You’ll need to have a plan in order to get things done. Creating a checklist is always a good place to begin, as well as a few magazines to browse for ideas and plenty of time so you won’t be stressed. Also, try to gather a few phone numbers for friends who can help you plan and make sure that the party will be a shining success. Chances are good that you’ll find an abundance of people willing to help by phoning guests, bringing food, and even bringing some extra chairs. Don’t be afraid to ask for help and delegate, baby shower planning usually ends up being a lot more work than you pictured when you first set out.

There is also a bounty of resources available online, at the local library and in magazines. To assist you in your baby shower planning madness, consider the following tried and true tips:

* Baby shower plans can and should be made by the host of the party. The mother-to-be’s friends, co-workers, her mother or sister could plan a shower. These days it is okay for anyone to throw her a party, except for the mother-to-be herself.

* Plan for a location that has the capacity to accommodate as many people as you plan to invite.  A small group can meet at a home or a restaurant. If you are intending on having a large party then you’ll need to look for a more spacious venue such as a hall, a church meeting room, or if it’s the spring or summer maybe outdoors in a backyard or garden.

* Food is also a must. You don’t have to serve a full meal if you don’t want to. Most people won’t expect it; however, you should provide a selection of some sort of treats. Options include cheese and crackers, a veggie tray, fruit dip, cake, and other hors d’ourves. Keep in mind a variety of guest’s means trying to provide a variety of foods to suit everyone’s tastes. Again, the most important person to consider is the mother-to-be.  

* Decorations set the stage for enjoyment. You are responsible for creating the atmosphere. For a baby shower think light and sweet. Helium balloons on the ceiling, confetti on the food table, candles, and fresh flowers to represent the new little life that is being celebrated. Decorations provide a great opportunity to involve other people in the baby shower planning. You can have others help to purchase and put up shower decorations as you see fit.