Every perfect baby shower begins with good planning. While this occasion is one for family and friends to gather and have a great time, other aspect is gift giving to help new parents as they prepare for birth or adoption of their child.

For this reason, you typically see baby showers for first-time parents but again, with second and third children coming much later than birth of first child, often a baby shower is necessary in this case too. This chapter will provide solid information on how to organize a baby shower so everyone has a great time.

GUEST LIST

For most people hosting a baby shower, first step is to determine guest list. Then, invitations are sent out and shower planned. However, it is crucial that list be analyzed carefully. Unfortunately, this list may include people that are desperately trying to become pregnant themselves but having fertility problems. Perhaps there is a person on list that has recently lost a child.

Although shower is exciting and a joyous occasion for expectant mother, it can be a painful reminder to person on guest list. Therefore, be conscientious of names on list and if one person is a close friend or family member in this situation, rather than just mail an invitation, place a personal phone call prior to sending invitation.

While you want guests to bring a gift of their choosing, it is also important to encourage them to bring something that will make parent’s life easier, especially to use right after birth of child. Therefore, let each guest know in person or via invitation that if they would like to bring a frozen meal or coupons for baby products or even their services, it would be greatly appreciated.

As a host, you need to consider people that will be on invitation list. Sometimes, finances are tight and buying gifts tough. You have a couple of options. First, you could set tone on invitations advising that while gifts are appreciated, they are not mandatory. This way, people know they can attend shower but not feel embarrassed if they come without a gift.

Another option is to purchase a few extra, inexpensive but nice gifts from funds collected. As host, if you know someone is one a tight budget, you could tactfully let them know that you had extra gifts purchased so if they need one, they are certainly more than welcome simply to take one to give couple. This way, that individual could choose a gift to give without feeling bad.

SIBLING GIFTS