by Leigh Goessl

Created on: May 17, 2008   Last Updated: June 02, 2008

It is an exciting time when someone close to you is awaiting their little bundle of joy. As mama-to-be is waiting for the big day, you'll probably start thinking about throwing a baby shower. When planning a shower, there are lots of details to consider, but most of all you'll want to make it a special day everyone will remember.

There are many ways to plan a baby shower that mama-to-be and your guests are sure to enjoy. Here are some tips and ideas for planning the celebration:

*Choose the theme. A nice choice is to go with the theme of the expecting parent's nursery and craft your invitations and decorations to mirror this decor. Mama-to-be is guaranteed to love it!

*Invitations. You can usually find adorable baby shower invitations in most party or variety stores which typically carry an assortment of themes. If you decide to create your own invitations, you can include a nice welcome or poem. There are several great relatively inexpensive software packages available to create beautiful customized invitations. Most office supply stores offer a wide selection of card quality paper and envelopes.

In your invitation, include the name of the guest of honor, date, time, address, and if mama-to-be has filled out a gift registry at any stores, note this. If you plan to have a wishing well, be sure to include on the invitation as well. Don't forget an RSVP date, it helps you plan when you have a general idea of how many guests are attending.

*Decorations. To decorate the room and tables, balloons, themed paper goods, and flowers are good choices. Depending on whether you are holding the shower in a restaurant or your home, decorative options may vary. With a restaurant you may be slightly limited, but at home, the sky's the limit!

A wishing well is not only a practical container for the gift extras people bring, but makes a beautiful central decorative piece. Additionally, you'll want to create party favors for your guests, baby themed of course! A pretty corsage for mama-to-be is a nice touch.

*Luncheon and dessert. For food you can have a potluck, asking family and close friends to bring a nice dish, or you can have it catered. If you choose to prepare the foods yourself, it cuts back on costs. It's customary to have a cake for dessert and it's nice to include a congratulatory or welcome message for the parents or baby. Sayings such as "Pink or Blue - We Welcome You!" or "Congratulations! Diapers & Pins, the Fun Begins" are eye-catching.

*Games. For baby showers there

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>