Do I hear the patter of little feet? Or is that the sound
of a rug rat? Everyone knows how much help a new mom and dad are going to need
with the birth of a child. You think that all they need is a clean diaper and
a warm blanket for sleeping, but that doesn’t scratch the surface. So throwing
a Baby Shower is just the thing to welcome a new baby and help out the happy
parents. There may be times they might not be this happy so let’s make sure we
get a good photo for reference.
Pick a Date and Time
Pick a Location
Develop a guest list
Obtain mail addresses or email addresses for each invitee
Design or Purchase Invitations
Determine if there is a need to rent additional tables and chairs; Call rental store
Determine if there is a need to rent table linens, punch bowls, coffee service; call
rental store
Consider taking pet dog(s) to a neighbor’s house for the hours of the party
If planning an outdoor party, create a rain contingency plan
Three - four weeks prior
Ask the new Mom for a list of gift items or stores where she is registered – make
this list available to invitees
Mail Invitations; ask for RSVP
Plan the menu
Plan beverages
Test any recipes that have not been tried before
Two weeks prior
Plan 3 easy games
Purchase prizes for game winners (and purchase an extra prize in case of tie)
Assemble recipes/shopping list needed for food and drink
Identify need for coolers, ice buckets or other drink containers
Identify what cups and glasses will be needed
Determine silverware needs; purchase plastic or clean/polish silver service
Decide on decorations, balloons, fresh flowers, centerpieces and order if needed
Arrange delivery for flowers and balloons
Order a cake
Nominate a friend to take photos on the day of the shower or provide disposable cameras
for the guest
Purchase party store decorations
One week prior
Gather serving dishes, trays and heating trays; clean if needed
Gather table linens or purchase throw-away items
Identify a table to be used for gifts
Purchase food and drink
Clean house
Set up supplies for games and wrap prizes
Set aside a pad of paper and pen to record presents and names for the new Mom on
party day
Day of party
Check bathrooms, provide hand towels and add a basket with extra toilet paper rolls
Prepare food
Pickup cake if not delivered
Purchase bagged ice for beverages
Layout all serving dishes and utensils
Set up additional tables and chairs if needed
Set up plates, silverware, glasses for guests
Pickup balloons, flowers if not delivered
Dress tables with linens and centerpieces
Add additional house decorations if needed
Set up coffee service with cups
Take a shower, dress and prepare to greet the guests
