A Baby shower celebrates the very anticipated arrival of a new member of the family. To do so, the mom-to-be’s family members and friends and gather together for a good time. The reason why we call them baby showers is because future mothers are literally showered with love and gifts on that special day!
If you’re the one in charge of organizing this event, we invite you to follow the next 5 steps to ensure it’s a success!
Step 1: Lay the foundation for the event
Above all, it will be necessary to establish some basics that will allow you to organize the shower. You’ll need to establish a budget as well as prepare a guest list, menu, theme, etc.
The typical budget for a baby shower
You cannot contact different suppliers before establishing how much money you’re willing to spend for the baby shower.
Meghan Markle spent more than $200,000 for hers … but don’t sweat it, you can organize something amazing with a much smaller budget! On average, baby showers cost between 100 and $300.
Complete the guest list
Traditionally, only women would be invited to baby showers. Nowadays, men can be part of the party too if they want to be!
The only important thing is that you only invite people that the mom-to-be will be happy to see. Don’t be shy to ask her if there are specific people she would rather you didn’t invite!
What kind of food for a baby shower?
The kind of food you choose to serve depends on the budget you’ve decided on and the time you’re hosting the party at.
Some people like to plan baby showers during the afternoon and avoid having to prepare a meal. In that case, you could offer finger foods or serve a cake.
We’ve also been seeing many showers being held in the morning. In which case you can serve a brunch with alcohol-free mimosas. In the morning, the mom-to-be will probably more energetic and can fully enjoy the party.
There is no go-to formula when it comes to meals at a baby shower. Don’t hesitate to call a caterer. That’s one more thing you can cross off your to-do list!
Choosing the venue, date and time
Preferably, baby showers should be held during the 7th or 8th month of pregnancy. At that stage, the mother-to-be will not be too tired and will have the energy necessary to enjoy the event.
Ask her what she prefers! A brunch? A 5 to 7? A short gathering in the afternoon? There are no wrong answers here!
During summer, we love to plan a baby shower outside in a backyard or a rented location. Make sure you keep an eye on the mother-to-be and are readily available if she needs assistance on the way to and from the party.
Have you thought of a theme?
It is not mandatory to choose a theme for a baby shower, but it can be fun!
Themes can be related to an upcoming holiday. For example, if the shower is taking place in October, a Halloween theme could be interesting. A specific colour can also be the theme (something blue, something pink or something green) or even an animal.
Step 2: RSVP
Now that you have laid down the foundation for the perfect baby shower, you’ll have to send out invitations and make the necessary reservations with supplies.
We suggest you do so at least 1 month before the event.
Don’t forget these essentials:
- Cake
- Booking a caterer (if applicable)
- Flowers
- Balloons
- Other decorations
If you want to make some D.I.Y decorations, you can start one month before the baby shower to make sure you have all the necessary materials so that you’re ready on the day of.
Step 3: It’s all in the details
At least 2 weeks prior to the event, you’ll want to have handled all aspects of the baby shower.
- Buy the necessary cutlery as well as napkins and glasses
- Plan games and winning prizes
- Find the guest favour
- Finalize the menu if needed
Most importantly, don’t forget to get a gift for the mom-to-be!
Step 4: Setting up
As the big day draws near, you have to take care of all the last-minute details.
Make sure your camera or phone is charged and ready for photos and videos. You’ll need to set up the table, install decorations, prepare as much food as possible and make sure that you have enough drinks to go around.
Step 5: On the big day!
Don’t snooze on the morning of the baby shower! You want to get up early so that you have time to get ready. Speaking of which, make sure you pick up orders and finalize everything the night before if the event is taking place in the morning.
Speaking of which, make sure you pick up orders and finalize everything the night before if the event in taking place in the morning.
During the party, remember you’re responsible for greeting guests and gathering gifts. You’ll also be in charge of animating and suggesting games. Make sure everything goes according to plan!
Stay near the mom-to-be in case she needs anything.
The most important thing is for her to feel and know how excited everyone is to welcome her baby into the family!
Find all the suppliers you need in one place.
You’ll find everything you need on the 4-célébrations.com platform. It regroups party planners and hosts, favours, caterers as well as limousines and much more!