Baby Shower On a BudgetWritten by Cathy Cripps
ON A BUDGETJust because people are on a tight budget does not mean baby shower cannot be fun. For this, guests would all be asked to pick up unique gifts from thrift stores, garage sales, antique stores, estate sales, or consignment shops. Not only are gifts affordable but expectant mother will end up with some very eclectic items. PURE PAMPERING When a woman reaches about seventh or eighth month of pregnancy, cute maternity clothes are no longer “cute”. The rounded stomach is in way, sleeping and getting comfortable is nearly impossible, and all woman can think of is “getting pregnancy over with.” Obviously, nature has an amazing way of preparing women to give birth but while in that stage of pregnancy, she feels miserable. Instead of or in addition to throwing a standard baby shower, why not throw a “pamper party” for soon-to-be mom. For this shower, have everyone bring something just for expectant mother. This might include some comfortable lounge clothing, chocolate covered cherries, takeout Chinese food, you name it, do it. She will feel so much better about herself and gain a much better outlook about hard work of labor ahead of her. PREGNANT GUESTS When hosting a baby shower, to create a ton of laughs while also making expectant mom feel good about her situation, have every guest come “pregnant” – men and women. A simple bed pillow rolled up and tied around waist with an oversized shirt will do job. While this is fun for an all-girl shower, it is even a better theme for a coed shower. BABY TOYS Rather than baby clothing, have each guests bring a special baby toy that could be used in child’s first three years of life. The variety will be wonderful and cost savings to parents huge. Not only is this baby shower theme excellent for a first baby but it also works very well for a second or third baby, as well as adopted children. MEMORIES For a special baby shower, create one filled with memories. In this case, each guest would bring a gift made in or representing year baby is born. For example, one guest might create a scrapbook with newspaper and magazine articles, another guest might bring a new toy developed that year, and another guest a picture frame with year as part of design. BABY’S FIRST With this theme, each family member or friend would choose something to represent baby’s first. As an example, a pewter fork and spoon for first solid food, a pair of baby shoes for first attempts of walking, a tooth fairy box for first lost tooth, a silk or satin case for a lock of hair from first haircut, or perhaps a cake gift certificate for his or her first birthday. NURSERY TIME If theme of baby’s nursery is known, shower could be specific to decorations of that room. For instance, if nursery were done in Walt Disney, then lamps, blankets, sheet, bibs, sleepers, diaper bag, and so on, all focusing on Disney would be on gift list.
| | Baby Shower ThemesWritten by Cathy Cripps
Once type of shower has been decided on, fun begins in creating a theme. Sometimes, shower will be very elegant, sometimes more casual, and sometimes, just downright fun. The theme of shower should be a direct reflection on expectant parents’ personalities and lifestyle. Therefore, when hosting, it is important that they have input into final decisions. Again, you can do anything you like, as long as it coordinates with what couple wants. If you will be host, take this opportunity to use your imagination, borrow ideas, and allow creative juices to flow. You want baby shower to be enjoyable, full of laughter, and a memorable occasional regardless of theme. The following are a few popular recommendations: SUPPERTIME Typically, a baby shower consists of games, food, and presents. However, why not take idea one-step further by including frozen dinners, preferably homemade. If couple has room, have each guest bring something that can be frozen or is already frozen. Whether shower is before or after birth of baby, this means couple does not have to spend tired nights trying to cook. Instead, they can simply pull out one of frozen dinners, pop it in oven or microwave, and in a short time, have a nutritious homemade meal. You would be amazed at how much this sentiment is appreciated. Just be sure everyone labels food with name, date, and any cooking instructions. Finally, if possible, try to provide some meal ideas for guests so they know what types of food couple enjoys. By offering a little guidance, this will also help reduce chance of duplication. IOU This theme baby shower is not only fun but also a tremendous help to both expectant mother and father. With this, every guest would bring a handwritten, signed, and dated IOU that would provide a service after birth of baby. Similar to task coupons, mother can call upon IOU when needed and family member of friend complies. Some of things you would expect to see include: - One home cooked dinner
- One night of babysitting
- Four hours of house cleaning
- One week of laundry
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