Baby Shower

Baby showers have been around for centuries, and for good reason—they’re a lovely way to celebrate the upcoming arrival of a little one, and to help you prepare for parenthood.

Whether you’re throwing a shower for yourself or a loved one, here are some steps to help get you started.

8 Tips for Planning a Baby Shower

Determine Your Budget

Some people pay for the shower themselves, while others ask guests to help. When you determine how much money you have to spend, you can begin to map out a plan for the event: from how many people to invite, to how much to spend on party supplies, including food and drink.

Find a location

Your location helps determine how many people you can invite (how many can fit in the space?) and whether it’s a casual or more formal affair.

Decide on a theme

Your theme can be as simple as “It’s a boy!” or more specific, such as a circus theme or a travel theme. Once you decide on a theme, you can start working on your invitations, gathering decorations, selecting food and beverages and planning activities that fit that theme.

Start your baby registry

To help your guests choose baby shower gifts, register at a few retailers who stock or specialize in baby gear. Make sure you register for essential items as well as higher-priced items, so that your guests can purchase items individually or purchase a larger item as a group.

Decide whom to invite

Ask key invitees (like grandparents) about their upcoming conflicts before setting a date. If you’re hosting for a loved one, ask them for a list of guests to invite.

Send invitations

You can mail traditional paper invitations, send an online invite or get creative! Pacifiers or rattles can serve as a cute substitute; attach a tag with all of the details. If mom and dad have registered for gifts, make sure you include the registry information in the invitation.

Gather supplies

Purchase decorations and paper-serving products (if the event is more casual). If you’re cooking yourself, plan a menu, and closer to the date buy the food and drinks you need. Make what you can ahead of time; freeze or refrigerate it until the day of.

Celebrate with your loved ones

The most important thing is that Mom, Dad (if he’s invited) and guests have fun. If something unexpected happens (you forgot the cake!), laugh it off. Motherhood is not about being perfect—it’s about love, and baby showers are about sharing this love with family and friends.

We’ve put together a few more great resources to help with everything from planning and hosting a memorable shower, to picking the perfect present (hint: the best gifts have sentimental value and an element of practicality).