by Kelcy Laing

Created on: May 18, 2008   Last Updated: June 02, 2008

The typical Baby Shower used to be for a young, married woman, who was expecting her first child. Today's typical baby shower is for a woman, or man, expecting, or anticipating the arrival of their first, second, or third baby, child or set of siblings. And while many things about a baby shower have changed over the years, what has not changed is the excitement and creativity that can go into the planning of such an event.

While many showers are not longer just family events, and now often include both of the parents, family, friends, and sometimes co-workers, the event remains one that should be meaningful, memorable and a keepsake. Who will be attending will impact many things including the budget, the theme, the games played, and the gift ideas.

Your first decision should about the budget. How much do you plan to spend per person. Will the menu include a full course meal, or snacks and desserts only? In today's health conscientious environment will liquor or wine be served? Will children be included or excluded? Is the event being held in a private home, or commercial establishment? Is the event being held on the weekend, in the evening or in the afternoon. Timing is everything and will make a difference in the budget. Also consideration has to be given about what events you will be competing with. Be mindful that June is the month for weddings and that Winter events are affected by weather.

The next decision is the theme. Do you know the gender of the anticipated arrival? How old is the new arrival - newborn or adoptee? Is the anticipated arrival interracial, international or intentional? Intentional really doesn't mean lot at this point but, it made for a nice segue way into your next consideration. Games.

Some fun games are guessing the weight or due date of the anticipated arrival. How long will it take for the cervix to dilate may be a stretch. I know, stop but, I have been to parties where guests tried to guess the date the expectant mother conceived the child versus when she would give birth. Advice on a notepad is an interesting game where everyone is asked to jot down some great advice for the mother-to-be. Such advice often helps alleviate some of the worry that new parents have about the health and crisis that can come up with being a parent.

Decorations range from the typical hats and bows to more creative considerations such as seasonal decorations combined with holiday themes and include promotions for books, and child-related charities and causes such as UNICEF. Reminding people of the needs of children around the world are important ways to give back and make sure children are not over indulged from the beginning.

Gift ideas - you can give condoms only if the expectant mother is like the family with 18 children? Housekeeping services or diaper services are good and usually more of a welcomed idea. Recycling toys, and clothing, while often rejected by first time parents, are a welcome way for parents to share and keep costs down.

Remember the thank you notes, nothing is worse than receiving a thank you note just prior to receiving an invitation to the child's first birthday. Thank you, can come again - next week, really leaves a bad taste in your mouth, and makes you wonder if people were really raised right when then were children.

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