by Linda G. Hull

Created on: May 25, 2008   Last Updated: June 09, 2011

A Victorian theme, circa 1837-1901, is a charming and elegant idea for a spring or summer baby shower.  Fresh garden flowers amidst lace tablecloths and vintage china are a lovely way to celebrate the timeless beauty of blossoming motherhood and new life.

Get in the mood by pulling out great-great-grandmother’s scrapbooks.  Enjoy the vintage pictures of babies dressed in flowing Christening gowns, cute sun suits and hats, and little boy shorts sets with matching cap.  Display the pictures during the shower. 

A formal shower begs for the china and silver.  Shop the second hand stores for mismatched or incomplete sets of china or dinnerware.  Consider seating the guests in small groups.  Cover tables with a white cloth overlaid with a shorter cloth matching the color theme.  Add a final layer of a crocheted or lace runner or shawl to cover the table top and drape over the side.  Arrange small tea lights in colorful glass holders.  Use small arrangements of silk or fresh flowers on a mirror square as a centerpiece.  Everyone loves a party favor.  Continue the Victorian theme by placing an embroidered handkerchief wrapped in floral paper and tied with curling ribbon at each place setting. 

A must have for decorating is an old fashioned wooden cradle or wicker bassinet.  Decorate the bassinet with lots of lace and tulle and a white lace skirt.  Gifts can be arranged nicely in the bassinet or grouped around the bassinet.  Wrought iron plant stands filled with pots of ferns, palms, or flowering shrubs create an elegant backdrop for the shower festivities.  At the entry way, suspend a drapery tied back with braided cord, with a matching or complementing swag valance.   

Victorian themed invitations can be handmade or purchased at specialty shops.  Consider enlisting the help of a graphic designer and print shop.  Inside information should include who the shower is for, the date, the time, the location, and an RSVP deadline in a black script font on white card stock.  Be sure to add an insert for any special instructions such as special attire, driving directions, or request for information on special dietary needs.  Make a matching smaller version for personalized thank you notes, leaving the inside blank for a personal note. 

Keep the shower within your budget by borrowing or renting equipment and decorations, rather than purchasing. 

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