Traditionally, a close friend of the mother-to-be hosts a baby shower, and the party is at the friend's home, before the baby is born. Contemporary practice allows that anyone can throw a baby shower for the expectant mother before or after the baby is born, as long as the new mother and her baby are the focus of the party. This is generally a gift-giving event, however, and some people consider it inappropriate under any circumstances for a family member to host such an event. If you are a sister who wants to throw a baby shower, you might consider asking a friend to be the official host, and you can do all the work for her!
Host responsibilities include:
- Providing the home or event location
- Timing
- Invitations
- RSVPs
- Food and Beverages
- Games and Prizes
- Party Favors
Notify guests of the baby shower well in advance. Typically, the size of the party will be determined by the location available for the shower. Consider a comfortable number of guests to be any number of people who can easily mingle, play games, and visit with the mother-to-be while she is opening her gifts.
Whether you are using email, phone calls or invitations by mail, make sure you invite the shower guests 4 to 6 weeks in advance (if possible) and have them RSVP. This will require you to get together with the mother-to-be and check both of your schedules. When selecting a date, be sure to consider the baby's due date and plan your party at least 4 to 8 weeks before or after the due date, preferably on a weekend, so that most people will be able to attend.
Include a map and directions in your invitations. A few suggestions regarding local accommodations are also a good idea for guests who are traveling from out of town to attend the baby shower. Invite immediate female family members from both sides of the expectant mother's family and her close friends. The host of a baby shower should make every guest feel welcome to attend by doing everything possible to make the party fun and easy to find.
As a host, you are in charge of catering the event. Make sure that the foods that you serve are easy to eat; not too messy, and are things that the guest of honor actually likes to eat. Know your guests' tastes if possible, and offer several choices of beverages. Wine, beer, soda, tea, and coffee are all acceptable if they match the sensibilities of your guests, the food, and the time of year. Have a festive dessert available for the celebration.
A baby shower generally lasts two to three hours. The host greets the guests, is in charge of introductions, serves the food and drinks, and is the master of ceremonies for any games or presentations of party favors. The host determines the flow of the event and therefore it is very important to keep your energy up and a smile on your face even if the cat just jumped in the middle of the buffet table!
To help break the ice, plan two to four baby shower games. If you do not know of any games, see Baby Shower Games for ideas. The games should go quickly and the winners of each game should receive a small prize for their efforts. Excellent prizes include scented candles, gourmet food items, or a gift certificate to a local coffeehouse.
After your guests have played fun games, eaten great food, and socialized with the expectant mother as she opens her gifts, present each guest with a small token of your appreciation. Party favors let guests know that their attendance at the shower has been appreciated, and thanks them for their shower gift.
A baby shower celebrates the beginning of a new life and the creation of a family. By hosting a baby shower, you are giving the most precious of gifts to your mother-to-be: your friendship, time and love.