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Planning A Baby Shower Event :: Initial Decisions for Success ~ Who, What, Where and When
by Marni Wynne
Every baby shower begins with a plan ~ Who, What, Where, When. These initials decisions make the rest a breeze.
"Who" might lead you to think that the "Who" refers to the guests and mommy-to-be, but before you start planning a baby shower, determining who will be hosting is nearly as important as the rest of the process. There really is no wrong answer on who should host the event. A baby shower can be hosted by a close family member like a sister, cousin or even a mother. A close friend or a co-worker is also appropriate. Anyone with an interest in celebrating the mommy-to-be's journey into motherhood can plan a baby shower. Make sure that when deciding on who will host the shower that everyone is in the loop and no one feels thier toes being stepped or left out. This is a joyous time and hosting a party on the right foot is the best way to ensure that your event reflects that joy.
If deciding on who will host the baby shower is becoming difficult, consider co-hosting the event. In today's modern culture, it is not uncommon for mommy-to-be to have several separate baby showers prior to baby's arrival. An alternative to co-hosting a baby shower is to organize several smaller events, such as a brunch or lunch, that are hosted individually and each with a different guest list. Baby shower events such as tea with sister, brunch with co-workers, and dinner with family isn’t always the easiest but if you have too many "hens in the hen house" then it is better to consider this option to eleviate potentially uncomfortable social situations.
"What" type of baby shower are you hosting? Will it be a "girls only" event only or will it be a co-ed or couples baby shower where husbands are also welcomed? This decision can hinge on who you decided would host the shower. Decide on the time of day will you host the baby shower. The time that you decide will depend on the type of baby shower that you host. For example, a tea would better be suited for a Saturday or Sunday afternoon whereas a dinner can easily be any night during the week. Depending on what type of shower you host could affect the guest list and some collaboration with other hostesses would be valuable to make sure no one is left off the guest list. (more on guests soon ;) )
"Where" is a biggie best not left until the last minute! The venue is a crucial item on the invitations and baby shower etiquette indicates that invitations should be sent out no later than 3 weeks prior to the party. That means that all the venue decisions will need to be made at about 6-8 weeks in advance. For more elaborate showers with long guests lists, even more time in the venue booking process may be necessary so don't get caught in the current without an oar... plan the venue now!
- Baby Showers At A Home:
- Pro's: Traditional & comfortable atmosphere. Ability to host indoors/outdoors. Privacy not available at a restaurant.
- Con's: Clean up before & after you do yourself. Parking can become an issue. Moving and removal in some cases of furniture. Adequate seating.
- Baby Showers At Public Venues
- Options: Gardens, Golf Clubhouses, Dining Halls, Restaurants.
- Pro's: No clean up!
- Con's: Lack of privacy, limited shower games. Limited or no decorations.
- More Venu Considerations: Check out local businesses for group packages for your baby shower event. Many businesses offer packages that are comparable to hosting expenses in a home. If you have a lengthy guest list, then renting a dining hall may be a sensible option. Privacy in a digning hall allows you the room to offer shower games, but like all the other venues there are some downsides. Dining halls are not known for their comfortable furniture and depending on where you rent, you may have to decorate and cater the food yourself.
"When" will you throw your baby shower? Deciding the date is just as important as the venue and often times goes hand in hand since you will need to book the venue and purchase your baby shower invitations. Send baby shower invitations out to your guest list no later that 3 weeks in advance. 5-6 weeks in advance for more elaborate baby showers. It is important to coordinate schedules with the guest of honor, especially if more than one baby shower is being held in her honor.
Make these four crucial decisions of the Who, What, Where and When and you will be well on your way to hostessing a successful and memorable baby shower event! Happy Baby Shower!
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