Baby Shower

Baby Shower: The Welcoming Committe on Board

2008-02-24T04:38:00.005-08:00

Finding out your pregnant is the best news of all. Well, second to hearing the grand proposal of a lifetime. After a successful wedding ceremony, hearing that your love has borne fruit is the icing on the cake. For first time expecting mothers, it is a difficult and herculean task to search and look for all the right stuff and equipment the baby will need. Moms-to-be need to list down all the things the baby would need at the soonest possible time so that little by little, each item can already be purchased and readied for the baby's arrival. But there is another easy way to almost have it all, without getting too much headache over it. The solution is to hold a baby shower party! The only headache mom-to-be would have is the menu she would have to prepare on that day and that is easier for her.

Now the burden of searching and looking for baby stuff is passed on to the invitees. But another concern is raised. How will the baby shower go about? The best answer there is, is to have a theme that would guide the flow of the baby shower. There are several ways of choosing and deciding on a theme. Do you want it to be based on color? In case you already know the gender of the baby, pink or blue is used to universally represent a baby girl or a baby boy. Or baby items such as a pacifier or a baby bottle? How about character-themed baby shower such as the Sesame Street, Power Puff Girls, Dexter's Laboratory or the Looney Tunes? It could also be a time-of-the-day baby shower whereby each invitee is tasked to bring something the baby would need or use during that time of the day.

From www.best-baby-gift-guide.com, it suggests wonderful baby shower gift ideas such as a baby gift basket, a layette gift set, vital baby equipment, beautiful baby linen, a baby massage set, or a baby gift certificate. Each gift idea is unique. For the baby gift basket, some ideas they suggest is to create your own baby gift basket or go for the classical clothing baby gift basket where you can never go wrong. You can also go for monogrammed baby gift baskets, fun baby basket, mother and baby basket, gift basket for twins, or a pampering baby gift basket. They also have different suggestions for baby girl and baby boys. For the complete descriptions for each item, just visit their website and read on to find fantastic baby gift ideas.

Once the baby shower is finished, take stock of what is already there and not. For those items still missing from your list, make the necessary arrangments to have it readily available once the baby arrives.

Just some last few tips for a successful baby shower: hold it four to six weeks before the due date, establish a theme, write down the guest list, set the tone and size of the baby shower, plan the games, plan the menu, create baby shower party favors, and last but not the least, set the time and location, if it will not be held in your residence. Remember, baby showers are a fun way to welcome the baby that would be coming soon enough.

The best baby gift ever is just a click away!

2008-02-24T04:38:00.003-08:00

Tired of searching for that perfect baby gift for someone special? Fear no more! Here is the rundown on where and how to have the most perfect baby gift of all time. As I have searched the world wide web for the best sites that would answer my need, here are the more user-friendly sites that I find to give the best baby gift ideas around.

As with Linus in Peanuts, a baby blanket is a perfect baby shower gift to give that is full of love and thoughtfulness. Having it personalized is even nicer. For those with more formal tastes and preferences, monogrammed baby linen would give that sense of tradition. While those with eclectic tastes and full of adventurous spirit, baby shower gift baskets, wall art for the nursery room, personalized baby gift items are just some of the baby gift ideas that you could give. Each baby gift suggestion can be found in www.best-baby-gift-guide.com where they give a fine description to each item.

Baby gift baskets come in all shapes and sizes and they speak of your thoughtfulness for putting it all together. Baby gift baskets are so unique because you can personalize it, make it blue or a pink basket depending on the gender of the baby, you can make a gourmet basket, or a food baby basket or even a baby bath gift basket. There are a lot of ideas you can think of to make it a unique baby gift.

Another good site that you can visit is www.babyshowers.info where they list all the possible things and other necessary equipment that the baby might possibly need. This site narrows down your choices since it would constrain you to search for items that are within your budget for those budget conscious spenders. Each item is under a heading such as clothing, nursery, bedding, meal time, play time, keepsake, jewelry and other items. If you have the funds, why not start the baby in a starter savings account? The receiving parents would surely appreciate this baby gift that would start their baby in his or her million dollar goal at 12 years old!

A click at www.enactwi.org for those who are into the environment or into organic stuff suggest some baby gift ideas you can give as they are easy to make since the materials used are very accessible in stores and groceries.

Visit www.kiddiegiftidea.com to find an extensive choice of baby gift stuff that you can never go wrong with. Its product index extends to more than two pages to view all of its offering so there are a lot of items to choose from.

Baby gifts are the best when the gift-giver poured love and attention to give that very special baby gift. It is not that difficult to look and search for baby gifts as some would think. It is just a matter of creativity and time to think what the baby might need or use in the future. There are other web sites and web links that you can visit and find other good ideas for that perfect baby gift to give away. There are also web blogs of parents that provide not only gift ideas but other concerns regarding on how to take care of your baby better.

Baby Game Shower: Baby games to play at the Baby Shower

2008-02-24T04:38:00.001-08:00

Babies are so much fun. But baby games shower are much more fun since moms-to-be, godparents, grandparents, and other invitees in the baby shower can get to play childish games again. Some of the baby game shower that can be played include Sing It, Baby!, Measuring up Mommy, Here's Looking at You, Kid!, Don't Say Baby, Baby Truth or Dare, The Seventh Gift, and Dig out the Pins.

These baby games are the common baby game showers usually played. They are a great way that would let the guests mingle and get to know each other, if they aren't acquainted yet. This is also another great way to give honor to the mom-to-be for having that precious baby on the way.

How do we play these baby game showers? Here is the run-down on how to play the baby game shower and create good memories of a great baby shower.

In Sing It, Baby!, the guests participants form a circle. They can sit or stand. Then, each guest must sing a line or two from a song that has the word "baby" in it. When the first game player has finished, the next person seated on her right has ten seconds to sing another "baby" song. "Baby" songs cannot be repeated, thus, participants who repeat a song or cannot think of a "baby" song gets booted out of the game. Last person singing in this baby game shower wins the prize!

How big has mommy become? Measuring Up Mommy is the baby game shower to play as this gives the guests the freedom to measure mommy's size. Have a couple of toilet paper rolls ready and ask each participant to estimate the size of mommy's girth by cutting the toilet paper to their guess size. Then each one wraps around the new mommy's stomach the toilet paper they cut. The nearest length approximating to the mommy's stomach wins the prize!

Remember how you looked when you were a baby? This game takes you down memory lane as you need to dig up those baby pictures of yours. Because you need them to play the baby game shower Here's Lookin' At You, Kid! Before the party itself, request all the guests coming to bring the cutest baby picture of themselves. Upon their arrival, secure each baby picture and assign a number per picture. During the game, lay all baby pictures and give each participant paper and pen and ask them to identify as many baby pictures as they can. The guest with the most number of correct guesses is the big winner.

This baby game shower makes you NOT say what you are suppose to be attending to! The game Don't Say Baby is precisely that! Don't say "baby" during the entire length of the baby game shower for the diaper pin that was given to you upon your arrival will be taken away from you. The person with the most number of diaper pins collected at the end of the shower party wins a prize.

This baby game shower is for those who love baby trivia and the like. Play Baby Truth or Dare by writing down some baby trivia, some correct and others purposely written incorrectly. During the baby game shower, ask randomly if the baby facts are either true or false. Those who guess correctly gets a prize while those who don't will be dared to perform in front of everyone else.

We all know that the single lady who catches the bride's wedding bouquet is said to become the next bride. In The Seventh Gift, it is not so much a baby game shower but more of a fable that says that the giver of the seventh gift unwrapped will be the next expecting mother. However, avoid "planting" the seventh gift.

Last but not the least, Dig Out the Pins is the baby game shower that tests the agility of the guests as they fish out the most number of diaper pins from a large bowl filled with uncooked rice and diaper pins in under two minutes. The participant that has the most number of pins brings home the prize.

The Baby Bedding Challenge

2008-02-24T04:37:00.005-08:00

Having a baby is the most wonderful experience a woman can have as it is a fulfillment of the biological function of the female species. After the giving birth process, the real work begins. Feeding bottles, diaper changes, immunization records are just a few of the things the new mom have to learn quickly. And one important thing to consider in the arrival of the baby is the kind of baby bedding he or she will use. According to Dr. Mark Brandenburg (http://www.baby-place.com/crib_safety.html), the number one rule to follow in choosing the right baby bedding for your precious infant is safety. The second rule says safety and the third rule emphasizes safety. We are to conclude that it is not enough to say it, it must be emphasized that baby bedding is critical for the comfort of the baby.

In his article on how to find the perfect baby bedding, it must be neither too hard nor too soft. In the past, sudden infant death syndrome or SIDS was attributed to very soft baby bedding. This happened when the baby's mattress is too soft that his nose and mouth gets covered and the air he exhales is the air he breathes. This is dangerous for him since he would breath carbon dioxide rather than oxygen and the effects could lead to drowsiness, coma or even death.

There are a lot of styles and makes in choosing the baby's bed. And with that, it follows that the baby bedding must be a perfect fit with the chosen equipment. The three major selections are: a bassinet, a crib or a cradle. What differentiates one from the other? A bassinet is an oblong-shaped basket that serves as a bed for an infant. But sometimes, round bassinets are also available. A crib is a bed that is flanked with high side bars for a baby or young child's safety. Cribs are usually more economical since the baby can use it from infancy to two years. While a cradle is a small low bed that an infant uses that has rockers on its stand. In all these, the material used to make the equipment should alert and signal to the mom how much safety precautions are needed.

Bassinets are usually lacey and full of trimmings. The baby bedding must fit the bassinet so that the baby's space is enough for him or her to be able to roll from side to side. The crib is usually square, thus, mattresses can be fitted to the size of the crib. The baby bedding usually is a set of coverlet and small pillows. Hotdog pillows can also be placed inside. However, the pillows should not be more than two or three lest the baby can stand on them and could fall over. The cradle can come in various sizes and shapes. Some moms prefer cradles so that when the baby is cranky, he or she can be rocked to be calmed down. The baby bedding for a cradle should follow the shape of it. Not much can be placed inside it since it is used mainly to rock the baby to sleep. However, one need not the three to keep the baby safe, warm and secure. One will do and this would depend on the parent's preference. The most preferred would be the crib since it can be used for a long time.

Now that we've covered the basic equipment, how do we furnish it with baby bedding? We have already established that the baby bedding should fit the sleeping equipment to avoid accidents and other untoward incidents. The most suitable material to use is cotton as it is absorbent and cool to the baby's skin. Different designs must be used to stimulate the baby's color and pattern recognition. Therefore, the baby bedding is a crucial factor in keeping the baby happy and healthy.

Baby beanies: The baby toy of all time?

2008-02-24T04:37:00.003-08:00

Baby beanies haven't been around that much since they were "born" only in 1994 when Ty Warner introduced the first baby beanies in the market. Not many people know that a baby beanie or more officially known as beanie baby were first made by him. He made the baby beanie to be more lifelike by giving it more air. In other words, there was less stuffing inside each baby beanie. The usual baby toys were stuffed to the hilt and they were stiff. While Ty's beanie baby was half filled with stuffing and half filled with beans. Hence the name beanie baby. Other competitors sneered and said that his toys would not last long. But exactly the opposite is what happened!

Now, the "original nine" as they are officially referred to are the first nine baby beanies Ty Warner made. These are the Spot the dog, Squealer the pig, Patti the platypus, Cubbie the bear, Chocolate the moose, Pinchers the lobster, Splash the killer whale, Legs the frog and Flash the dolphin. Collectors have dubbed them as such since these where the first baby beanies available that were selling at less than $5.00 each. Each baby beanie comes with a short poem to introduce it to the toddler. This was written on a red heart-shaped tag that is attached by the animal's ear.

Not much is known how many baby beanies are totally in existence since there are lines developed that create a family of baby beanies. The most famous is the teddy-bear baby beanie that was created. The basic pattern was just re-used and different colors were utilized to create a family. Different names were given to each teddy bear in keeping with the tradition of having a name. Some teddy bear baby beanies are usually used for commemmorative uses such as in the Fourth of July or there is a Diana, the Princess of Wales have been made as a commemmorative collector's item.

However, the official baby beanies were mostly animal shapes such as cats and pigs, dogs and hippopotamuses. These are usually brightly colored and stylized to make them pleasing in the eye. The official baby beanie comes with his or her own name. It has its own date of birth. And most important of all, a short poem that describes its personality.

The baby beanie crazed happened in the late 1996 when a frenzied collection of baby beanies started. This prompted Ty Warner to retire some of the baby beanies to hype up even more the sales and marketing side of his products. There were people who bought wholesale in anticipation of the possible future value of a single baby beanie. However, as with other fads that easily rise and can be easily forgotten, the baby beanie craze was just another fad that quickly fizzled. Or what the expectation of those "investors" did not materialize at all.

Inspite of what happened, baby beanies are here to stay since babies usually prefer soft toys that they can easily hug and bite and hold easily in their hand. Baby beanies need not be in the same family of baby beanies to be appreciated. A colllection of baby beanies show the kind of personality the baby has or it speaks the kind of personality the giver has.

One Baby Bash Coming Up!!!!

2008-02-24T04:37:00.001-08:00

Birthdays are one of the most important events in our lives. This day signifies our arrival in the world and the celebration of it is a commemmoration of that first time we've ever came into the world. Most especially for our precious baby.

Here are some tips to get that baby bash on the roll and be the talk of the baby land for a week or so. One, preparation of the baby bash is extremely important! Create a theme that you would like to follow. Would you like your baby bash to be a sci-fi adventure? Or would you want your baby bash to be a costume party? Or rent even an amusement park complete with the merry-go-round and a clown or two. Whatever you decide, the baby bash needs to be well-thought of to keep it organized as well as the safety of the guests can be assured.

The baby bash depends on the age of the baby. For one year olds, clowns would do so that he or she can facilitate the party since the most important guests would be the little children. Magic shows and puppetry would be sufficient to keep the children interested and satisfied. While for two years old and older, since by this time, they are already mobile and have learned to walk, a costume party or an amusement park theme would be the solution to keep the kids happy. Balloons to keep them preoccupied, cotton candy to keep them busy and lots and lots of kiddie food.

Second, sending out the invites. It seems that babies are conversational pieces. Thus, your network of friends increase since you meet other moms and dads who have babies near your baby's age group. They can become your buddies, swapping babysitting time when you need to unwind and relax. Their kids are your guests in the baby bash and not the parents. Thus, the baby bash must be geared towards the kid's enjoyment.

Third, preparation of the food. Since this is a kiddie party, finger foods should comprise most of your menu. Kids easily tire of food and so small portions must be served at them. If possible, separate the food of the parents with the kids, if the parents were invited.

Sometimes, a baby bash becomes an adult get-together when there are no other babies that could be invited.

Whatever you have decided what the baby bash must be like, keep in mind that the baby's comfort is more important. Sometimes, there are babies who are afraid of clowns. You must have an alternative activity in mind in case this happens.

Fourth, post baby bash activities. After all the food, the favors and trimmings gone, it is time to clean up. The most convenient way to finish all the food left is to ask mothers to take home a portion of the food served. This not only minimizes food spoilage, it would also keep the kids occupied during the drive home, in case they start asking for food. Because there are kids who play all throughout the party and do not pay attention to the food. But once they have settled down, usually during the ride home, then they start to feel hunger pangs. Thus, you would be helping parents keep the kids behaved during the ride home.

Then baby bash need not be a strenuous and nerve-racking activity that moms would rather not plan for. It could also be enjoyable for the parents as well.

Baby Crying 101

2008-02-24T04:36:00.001-08:00

Communication - that's what a baby's crying is for. This sweet thing that suddenly turn into a fit of tears is just craving for your sweeter attention. All cultures in the world nod to this pattern all infants are accustomed to.

A baby cries the most during his or her first three months. Though the amount of crying steadily increase, the crying time period may vary from an hour to most of the day and this could still be considered within normal range. Like, whoah, right? Babies are also known as howling tear factories.

Some thought that a baby cries more during the afternoon accounting it to the anxiousness of the mother or the stressed mood of the father after going home from work. But the most accepted assumption now is that babies have this automatic screening ability they use to shut off all the noise that may stimulate some response from them so they could get enough rest. But in the long run, this filter weakens and totally disappears during the approximate age of six weeks. This, then, make a baby very sensitive to the external factors such as noise, movements, etc. And these generally elicit a reaction from a baby and how best could he or she respond but only through crying.

There are many reasons why a baby succumbs to crying. Deciphering these reasons is the major feat a parent must surmount. Here are some of the things your sweetsome baby is making you understand through crying.

Hunger. Yes, your attention-hungry baby is craving to let you know that his tummy is grumbling. This is the most common reason for a baby to cry, especially, during his early months. The pattern of the hunger howl could be characterized as being persistent, demanding and almost rhythmical. But that rhythm is not at any rate close to becoming musical, of course.

Boredom. What can I say? Aren't these babies just plain spoiled? Crying because of boredom, errr, I'd find that a bit more twisted or weird if it's with an adult that is. But babies are really built like this. Crying is their way of telling you, "Hey get me a life here!" Aside from attention and food, consequently, babies need a lot of stimulation. And when they don't get this, there you get your waaaaaaaaaaaaaahhhhhhhhhhh!!! The trick is to pick the baby up and play with him. This move may be frowned upon by some because of its amounting to spoiling the baby. But it is important to know that stimulation is also one of the major necessities of an infant and it won't hurt to provide him with some while in his growing age. This boredom cry is said to be also rhythmical and full of sobs and moans.

Discomfort. Pain is another precursor of the baby's crying. Who won't cry when in pain, right? Babies are not Major Paynes to endure the most excruciating discomfort they could undergo. They are little, vulnerable beings that need to be attended to when injured or when in an inconvenient situation. This cry could be more persistent, louder and more demanding. Shrieking and screaming, those are words that better describe the crying pattern roused by pain.

Another cause may be disturbance; surely, howling will proceed just when they're about to sleep or are already fast asleep and suddenly gets surprised by some noise, or movement. An illness that causes discomfort to a baby may also be the reason for a baby's bursting into fit of tears.

Baby R Us: One Stop Baby Shop

2008-02-24T04:35:00.001-08:00

If Toys "R" Us is a company that offers various toys for kids, what does Baby R Us offer? No way! It's not babies! Baby R Us offers baby products.

In 1996, Westbury, New York, Baby R Us opened its first store. It has been immediately followed with opening six more branches on different locations at the end of the year. After tremendous expansion and joining the Baby Superstore chain, Baby R Us store count has reach 218 at the beginning of 2005. What a mammoth feat for a baby store, right?

Babies R Us is considered a pioneer in retailing premier baby products. It is said to be the biggest store chain in the world that provides baby products. They have stores and online stores that assist in giving a unique and fun shopping experience for their consumers. It has a state-of-the-art baby registry service that provides more convenience when shopping for your baby's needs. Baby R Us also has a Mother's room that attends to babies? necessities.

It has an online store that contains various helpful features that include the following:

The Baby Registry service is a product of Babies R Us teaming up with Amazon.com. Parents that are expecting their baby are permitted to create an online baby registry or update a registry that was set up on one of the Babies R Us stores nationwide. What this registry rids the parents is the inconvenience of surmounting geographic barriers and presumption of which products suit your baby. This way, when your friends and relatives plan to buy your baby a gift, it won抰 be that much of a hassle anymore. All that they have to do is go online, select, buy and get the gift delivered to you on time. All the land-based Baby R Us stores allow all purchase returns as an added feature.

Baby R Us also constantly maintains a sop Seller List?that usually include educational baby equipment, baby books, a pregnant mom's book, diaper accessories, comfy baby bouncer, play gyms, baby call nursery monitors, a changing pad, monitors with dual receivers, an infant car seat base, baby wraps, toddler rockers, baby swings, nursery care kits, feeding bottle set, etc.

Baby R Us online store also allows browsers to check on different brands of baby products that suit their preferences. The following are the categories that Baby R Us provides various brands of products on: gear, activity, toys, nursery, health and safety, specialty stores, feeding, bath and potty, and clothing and layette.

Baby R Us also presents gift ideas to those who want to share some goodies to their little kids, nephews, nieces, granddaughter or grandsons. A gift set is always considered a hit in making parents with their babies smile with appreciation. These are often in baby gift basket forms that contain various items that deal with the parents and baby's needs. There are also these parents Favorite?items and Babies R Us?basic gift ideas that are never surmounted by novel items. Gift certificates are also available as treats to the parents-to-be. Baby R Us even added new baby?or pregnancy?e-card. Along with this e-card, the option of an e-mail or a paper gift certificate is still offered.

Babies R Us online even has this resource center page that includes various buying guides, checklists, articles, advices and other information that will both benefit the parents and the baby.

The Way with Baby Names

2008-02-24T04:33:00.000-08:00

Choosing a baby name for your child is almost like choosing his identity. Ever heard about the association of a person's name with his personality? That's how our names really work. A name molds a person's identity like a cookie-cutter. So, better get that best baby name for your son or daughter. Read on for some tips on how to provide that best baby name for your little angel.

1. Stop it already with the dictates of your family's tradition. Choosing the right baby name does not have to always rely on what your elderly relatives deem to be the best baby name. It is your baby's name, not theirs. So, better act like it. Once your baby is born he will be stuck with that baby name for life. That means it's not wise to just settle for any baby name that will suit your grandma's or auntie's taste.

2. Take a look of a picture of his future. You don't want your baby to be always called with a monicker that will forever ridicule him or will allow his playmates to make a big laughingstock out of him, right? Research about the meaning of the baby name you are eyeing to give to your baby. Don't consider Beelzebub as a prospective baby name just because you heard it from a TV show and you find it cute. Don't use Rodelfa just because a certain Mexican TV show's hunky lead actor is called Rodolfo. Just plainly saying yes to your gutfeel, thinking of the people that pops into your head upon hearing somebody spout a certain name, trying to follow a fad by naming your baby a certain celebrity's (sometimes notorious) or NOT THINKING AT ALL in giving your precious one his or her baby name are huge no-nos!

3. Consider reading the initials of the baby name you are planning to give your baby. Make sure they don't stand for anything funny, disturbing or something utterly stupid. Christine Sue Irving? What will happen on the next episode? Alvin Stephen Stuart? He抣l surely remember not to get near any hole. Fran Ursula Catherine Klein? Uh-oh! See? Can you imagine the sickening situation you may put your child into when he or she grows up?

4. Go check your family tree once and for all. Some can't still get away from some traditions regarding baby name decisions, especially when they have a special bond with a certain family member that they want that person's name to be a part of their baby's name. If your planning to still follow the tradition of putting a part of your elder relatives?names on your baby's name, you have to know whether anybody else in your family use that name too. You don want to confuse people when they're calling a name that's owned by two. Ask around.

5. Don't go for the overkill. Being too creative on thinking of a baby name can backfire, I'll telling you. Examples are too unique spellings. It will be hard for the kid to keep on spelling his or her name to people who only know the common spelling of such name.

6. Decide with your partner in coming up with the best baby name for your sweet baby. It wouldn't be nice to be always blamed when people ask who chose that awful baby name, right? Okay, kidding aside. Sharing on this kind of decision-making is a good way of furthering your bond as a couple, not to mention the possibility of coming up with a better baby name. Remember that the two heads are better than one?thought also applies to dealing with the troubles of finding the most suitable baby name for your baby.

Sound, appeasing relatives and friends and avoiding embarrassing initials and discovery of disgusting meanings are some of the major concerns that should be considered in your quest for the perfect baby name. You might find them a bit taxing. But in the long run, you'll see that doing your homework will make your baby thank you when the right time comes. Happy baby naming!

Baby Gift Basket Ideas

2008-02-24T04:32:00.000-08:00

Planning to host a baby shower? Or a friend of yours recently gave birth to a healthy bouncing baby? How else could you express that you care for that friend of yours and her baby? A baby gift basket could be the best present that would express your concern.

A baby gift basket is one of those themed gift baskets that are presented containing items that are of value to the recipient. Oftentimes these baby gift baskets contain the following items that will surely give delight to the new parents and to the new addition. You could make use of this information to create or stuff your own baby gift basket that will rid you of those more expensive commercialized kinds.

Nursery room items. These include colorful mobiles to keep the baby busy, lullaby music to soothe the infant, and nursery rhymes CD's. Bigger items like layettes, changing mats for tables and cribs, and other furniture for the baby may be found in de luxe baby gift baskets. Educational toys are also good to make the baby gift basket more beneficial in stimulating the baby's mental development.

Toys R Us. The following toys are also nice to place inside your baby gift basket. Rattles, pacifiers, teethers, feeding bottles, infant cups, bibs and spoons are also useful add-ons in your baby gift basket.

Bath Bath Baby. Bath products for babies are also commonly found in baby gift baskets. These include baby shampoo, baby powder, baby towels, wipes, bubble bath, brush set and tub toys that the baby will surely enjoy in the near future. Baby clothing's could also be considered as one of the best baby gift basket goodies that one could ever give. Just be sure that the clothes you'll give suit the gender of the baby.

If you are to a baby gift basket to someone with a toddler or a young kid, the items should also suit the baby's age. Soft toys, board books, board games, piggy banks will certainly win the jump with delight of a toddler. Clothes for toddlers are also nice to include in your baby gift basket.

If one is intending to give the baby gift basket as a baby shower present, it will be nice if baby cookies, baby cakes, jelly beans and other baby foods will be found there. Announcement and invitation cards may also bring some added surprise to the recipient of the basket. Small picture frames and albums could also add more fun to your baby gift basket. Surely, this sweet gesture will be appreciated.

Gourmet food, wines and other fine food may also be placed inside a baby gift basket for the parent's celebration.

Oftentimes, bows and ruffles adorn the baby gift basket. But one could still be more creative by doing a decoupage of baby pictures or baby items. Other handmade crafts may add personal touch to your basket. They could be in the form of papier mache', origami, sculpture, small painting, woven or knitted items, etc.

If the one giving the baby gift basket intends to give it during a christening celebration or baptism, a small bible, silver cups and any symbolic item that adheres to the theme of the celebration and that the recipient's religion appreciates may also be placed in the basket.

A small gesture like giving out a well-thought of baby basket can surely go a long way. The recipient's smile is enough to mean a sincere "thank you".

CONCLUSION

2008-02-12T06:29:00.003-08:00

Take a breath, and give yourself a round of applause. You now know more about planning the perfect baby shower than most people ever will.

For instance, you now know the importance of planning everything from the timing of the shower, to the food being served, to whether there’s enough space for people to eat and sit comfortably.

You also know about themes and games that can make the baby shower a memorable and joyous event for all. And, of course, you know about some of the essential do’s and dont’s that can make all of the difference in determining whether a baby shower succeeds, or runs into some trouble along the way.

Remember, as we pointed out at the very beginning of this book, your vision here in planning the perfect baby shower should be a flexible vision; there is no guaranteed prescription that will magically lead to the perfect experience.

Each baby shower has its own unique aspects, and there’s really on way to predict what will happen.

However, by following the proven, simple, and clear advice in this book, you’ll put yourself way ahead of the pack and truly hit the ground running.

 While others fail to understand why playing Taboo was an error, the guests at the baby shower that you put together will not have that problem.

 While others try and force their guests to eat hot soup without a table to rest it on, your guests will enjoy sandwiches that travel nicely.

 While other bore their guests, your guests will be laughing and having a good time thanks to the themes and games that you’ve provided.

 While others put together a baby shower that lacks character and uniqueness, people will rave about the one you put together for years to come.

 While others commit the cardinal sin of inviting men to a baby shower on Super Bowl Sunday, or during the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Basketball tournament when the local university is playing, you’ll have people sending you thank you cards for your consideration in scheduling things around that important day.

…and the list goes on, and on, and on!

Good luck, have fun, and remember: baby showers are about sharing good times and having fun! Keep this in mind, and there is no problem or challenge that you can’t overcome.

And don’t forget to keep a journal of your experiences – both positive and not-so-positive. This can serve both as a priceless memento of your baby shower experience, and as a very useful tool for you as you go to your next baby shower; or help someone plan their perfect event!

Couples Showers?

2008-02-12T06:29:00.001-08:00

The website www.preggiepeggy.com has an amusing article on what many call co-ed baby showers. This term doesn’t actually mean that couples should be invited to baby showers. Rather, it refers to the husband of the mother-to-be inviting his friends to the baby shower.

A very good trend over the last generation or so is that more men are participating in the whole childbirth experience. Many men are now also involved in the birth itself, assisting the mother with coaching and helping her endure the stress. In this light, it’s not strange to imagine that men are participating in baby showers in unprecedented numbers.

The decision to have men at the baby shower – and these would be friends of the father – is a decision that, naturally, would be made by both would-be parents. It’s nothing that the baby shower producer (you!) should assume; because there may be pros and cons about the wisdom of this co-ed option.

If you decide to invite men, then ensure that this is reflected on the invitation. Also, keep in mind that many men consider Sunday to be a holy day in more than just religious terms. During football season (October through to January), Sunday is a very important day for many men; and showing up to a shower might be the last thing that they want to do.

So just bear this in mind, and if you have to do things on a Sunday, make sure that it isn’t Super Bowl Sunday! And there’s a period in March affectionately called March Madness; it’s a very special time for many men (and women!).

If you’re not sure of when these special moments are, consult with your local sports nut. They’ll be able to tell you when high and low season are!

Also keep in mind that some of the feminine elements of a traditional baby shower – such as, perhaps, the Tea Party theme – should probably go out the window if you’re doing things co-ed. Find something entertaining and, if at all possible, gender neutral.

Remember too that, just due to cultural upbringing, many men aren’t into the dainty side of life. So while they’ll gladly attend to support their friend (the father-to-be), don’t expect them to get all teary eyed as they discuss why Little Women was the most important book in their life.

Things NEVER to Do: Don’t Ask People to Eat Standing Up

2008-02-12T06:28:00.002-08:00

Some people like eating while standing up; particularly kids, who always seem to be on the go and ready to do the next thing. Some of them even eat while doing something else, like walking or talking on the phone.

However, it’s safe to assume that your baby shower guests aren’t going to be that frenetic with their movements. They’ll likely want to peacefully sit down and eat; and that’s why you must ensure that they have somewhere to sit, and a place to eat.

This is an oversight that a lot of very well-intentioned baby shower producers make. The thing is, it’s sometimes very hard to envision just how much table and chair space is necessary. A room may look very spacious, but fill it with 15 people or more, and it can become very cramped.

Again, the solution to this is in the word plan. Take a good look at the space in which the baby shower will take place. Literally count the number of sitting spaces, and the number of table spaces. If there aren’t enough of both to comfortably serve the number of people attending, then you need to do something about this.

A quick and easy solution could be renting fold-away tables and chairs that can be brought out and then put away when the food is finished. Or, if the weather is nice, you can maybe count on doing things outside. If you do this, however, keep in mind that some people may still want to eat inside. Furthermore, always bear in mind that weather predictions are simply that: predictions. Don’t overestimate that accuracy of a sunny forecast; we’ve all woken up to thunderstorms on the day of the big picnic.

Also keep in mind that in western culture (e.g. American, Canadian, and some parts of Western Europe), personal space is generally seen as larger than those in other countries.

You can visibly see this if you ride the subway in, say, New York compared to Tokyo. When possible, the New Yorkers will allow for about 2 feet of personal space around each person. Of course, in rush hour this isn’t possible, but otherwise the 2-foot-rule is generally held.

In Tokyo, however, the personal space expectations are around 1 foot; regardless of density of the subway car. People in Japan are simply more comfortable with a 1 foot personal space orbit, while people in the US are simply more comfortable with a 2+ foot orbit.

What does this mean to you? It means that you should be aware of the personal space needs of your guests; because if you aren’t, then they’ll be uncomfortable. So even if you believe you have enough room to seat and feed 15 people, ask yourself: is this really the case? Or are you literally cramming people to sit and eat side by side in a manner that is going to be culturally uncomfortable?

It’s little things like this that may seem like superficial details, but in fact, they make a huge difference when the baby shower actually happens. So if you don’t really have enough space, then take steps to find more space; or, at the very least, don’t serve foods like soups that require a stable eating area (firm chair and firm table).

If you absolutely can’t find enough space for all of the guests, choose foods like dry sandwiches that people can eat as they stand, or sit on a stairwell.

Obviously, the ideal is to have everyone sit. But if you can’t, then your choice of catering can make things as good as they can be, all things considered.

Things NEVER to Do: Don’t Choose Awkward Games

2008-02-12T06:28:00.001-08:00

We’ve come a long way from charades. Now, there are shelves full of games specifically designed for adults. Some of these games, as you can imagine – or might have even enjoyed yourself a time or two – are of the… er…well, they can be a bit racy. And they can ask awkward questions and inspire awkward moments; because that’s part of the fun of the game.
Now, you simply don’t want the word “awkward” to be anywhere near your baby shower. In fact, you want to keep awkward at least 500 feet away from your baby shower at all times. So to help do this, ensure that the games you choose are suitable for everyone and won’t lead to awkward situations.
Also, think even further than whether the game itself is intended for “adults only”. Some games, like Twister, aren’t typically enjoyed by people who may be obese, or who are afflicted with a physical limitation.

For example, if one of your guests is confined to a wheelchair, then having a game that requires mobility – like Twister, or a rousing rendition of musical chairs – can be very awkward. It can actually inspire hurt feelings.
Naturally, you can’t be expected to plan ahead for every eventuality. You won’t know, for instance, that one of the guests had a very traumatic piñata experience as a child, and therefore runs out of the room screaming when she sees one of them flying through the air. So what should you do when you can’t know everything that there is to know?
Simple: just have a few options. Keep a few back-up games handy, just in case you detect that people are uncomfortable with the choices. It sounds like a little thing, but it can truly make the difference between keeping awkward at bay, or having it crash the baby shower.

Things to Do: Set a Time Limit

2008-02-12T06:27:00.004-08:00

Baby showers are wonderful events filled with relaxing laughter and shared positive emotions. Yet all good things come to and end. Or rather, all good things should come to an end while they’re still good things.
This means, simply, that you should have a clear end-time for the baby shower. This allows guests to efficiently plan their day, and it also gives everyone a chance to leave at the same time and not appear impolite for “having to run and miss all of the fun”.
You don’t have to monitor the baby shower so that is stays precisely on schedule; this isn’t a job, remember, and there are no shareholders!

While you’ll certainly want to usher the baby shower through its various phases (such as moving from games to food with enough time for people to eat), the important thing here is that the baby shower should end on time.

Things to Do: Decorate

2008-02-12T06:27:00.003-08:00

One of the most memorable things about the baby shower will be the decorations. They might seem like yet another minor detail in a sea of details, but they will be something that people notice, appreciate, and indeed, remember.

You don’t have to go overboard on the decorations, and you don’t have to spend a lot of money. In fact, the biggest investment here will probably be your time. Simply choose the decorations that reflect the theme that you’ve chosen. You may want to consult the mother-to-be on the decorations.

For example, if the mother-to-be is deathly afraid of spiders, a Charlotte’s Web theme with giant spider decorations probably isn’t the wisest decision to make.

Things to Do: Cater Accordingly

Perhaps more than ever before, people are very serious about what they eat; and what they don’t. In the past, it was somewhat safe to make catering decisions based on religious or cultural understanding.

For instance, many Catholics don’t eat red meat on Friday. As such, if the guest list included people who you knew followed this practice, you would simply include non red-meat alternatives, such as seafood. Or if your guests were Jewish, you wouldn’t serve pork.

While these cultural catering rules still certainly apply, more people these days are choosing to eat based on lifestyle choices, not just religious or spiritual ones. Many people, for example, don’t eat foods that contain trans-fats. Or many people don’t eat foods that are high in carbohydrates, or proteins (it’s hard to tell which one is good these days, and which one is bad!). There are also many more practicing vegetarians in the western world right now; and that, too, can be a little confusing. Some people who describe themselves as vegetarians will eat fish. Some will drink milk. Some won’t eat cheese or honey.

For fun, log onto the website of any international airline, like American Airways or Delta, for example. And within their site, just check out the in-flight hospitality section to see the different kinds of meals that are available. You’ll be amazed at how many different categories of food there are. You’ll find everything from low-calorie to lacto-vegetarian, to low-carbohydrate to low-sodium, and even more.

Now, don’t worry: you don’t have to serve dozens of kinds of food! The idea here is simply to be aware that in the world today, people are much more informed about what they’ll eat; and what they won’t.

So when you make your catering decisions, try and think outside of the box a little. This means, see if any choices that you’re making could limit your guests’ enjoyment of a particular food. For example, if you’re ordering little finger sandwiches, it may be wise to have cold cuts on a separate plate that people can pick and choose from at their discretion. Those who don’t want cold cuts (for any reason, including taste preference) can simply not pick them up.

Also consider the types of foods that you offer. If your guest list is going to be predominantly filled with senior citizens, foods like celery – which are murder on dentures! – isn’t a good idea.

Before we go onto the next do, please take a moment to consider whether you’ll have alcohol at the baby shower. Now, this book is not a legal guide and nothing within it, naturally, should be seen as legal advice. However, according to media reports, there have been some cases where people at parties consumed too much alcohol and, as a result, injured themselves and other people. This is tragic enough, but to add even more unhappiness, the party hosts were also seen as partly liable.

Now, these isolated cases which have garnered so much media attention were for holiday and new year’s eve-type parties, where alcohol is considered a party staple. It’s hard to imagine a baby shower where anyone would drink past the point of sensible. Yet it can happen, and it’s something that you simply need to be mindful of. So if you are going to serve alcohol of any kind – be it punch or wine or wine coolers, etc. – then make sure that you do what you need to do to cut people off who may not know when to stop.

Or, like many people, you can just choose to have an alcohol-free baby shower and not give it a second thought! The choice is yours (and presumably the parents-to-be), but it’s something worth discussion beforehand.

Things to Do: Plan

2008-02-12T06:27:00.001-08:00

It goes without saying (but let’s say it anyway, since we’re all here together!). PLEASE PLAN AHEAD!

You may be one of those very talented people who tend to do things without a lot of planning; you just have a flair for pulling things off, and often, for pulling them out just in the nick of time. If this sounds like you, then you should really heed these sage word: PLEASE PLAN AHEAD!

The thing about a baby shower is that there are a lot of variables that come together to determine whether it succeeds or doesn’t succeed. As you know from reading the first section in this book, everything from choosing the time of year for the shower, to the amount of time to “RSVP” the invitations, are elements that can influence the shower. Or to put things more frankly: if something is wrong in any of these elements, then they will almost certainly negatively influence the overall baby shower experience.

So how do you deal with this? Simply by planning ahead. Have a plan – write it out! – and see what you have to do, and in what timeframe. If you need help, then talk to the mother-to-be and recruit some deputies. If you need assistance making a decision – such as who to invite – then get the help that you need. By planning, you’re able to see what you need to do, and therefore, you can go ahead and do it.

On the flipside, when you don’t plan, you are almost certainly going to overlook a detail or two. At the time, they may seem minor (“do I really need to follow-up with people who haven’t RSVP’d the invitation?”).

Yet once the shower actually happens, it’s kind of like racing a car in the Indy 500: if there are flaws, they will be exposed. So don’t let your little details come back to bite you, or any of the other guests (including the mother-to-be).

If you aren’t a good planner, then here’s your opportunity to become one. It’s not that hard at all; it just requires a little effort (that goes a long way!).

PART 3: INSIDER’S TIPS

2008-02-12T06:25:00.000-08:00

Ah yes. What would a how-to book be without insider’s tips? These are the tried, tested, and sometimes regrettable details that you really need to know in order to create, management, and complete a perfect baby shower.

You’ll likely find some of these to be common-sense; though a few may surprise you. It’s these strange ones that are the most important to you, because heeding the advice – to do or not to do them – can be the difference between making your baby shower memorable for the right reasons, or for the wrong ones. These are all from the great website www.mamabebe.com.

As you plan and roll-out more baby showers (because you’ll be so good at this one people will want to consult your services!), your list of dos and dont’s will increase. Keep a journal handy to jot these insights and experienced down as you go.

Food

2008-02-11T05:17:00.001-08:00

Author Randy Wilson (http://ezinearticles.com/?Baby-Shower-Food-Items&id=42045) has put together a wonderful article on the importance of food at the baby shower. He also delivers some fantastic advice on what to choose; and what not to choose.

The first thing that Wilson wisely notes is that a full course meal really isn’t typical for a baby shower. Rather, finger-foods, appetizers, and munchies like chips and crackers are more common. A cake is also rather common, as are other deserts, such as ice creams and pies. If you’re going to splurge on any of the items, then going a bit extra on the deserts is usually considered the more acceptable approach. After all, who doesn’t love cake?

Also, as noted above, the foods in the baby shower can tie into the theme. If the theme is celebrity, for example, then the sandwiches can be in the shape of little stars. The foods don’t have to reflect the theme; which means that you should feel bad, or like a failure, if you can’t find a way to make little star-shaped sandwiches (it really is an art form!). However, if you can tie everything together, it will make your baby shower that much more memorable an event for the guests, and the parents-to-be.

Having a wide selection is also important; and we discuss this in some detail in the “Insider’s Tips” section of this book. Suffice it to say, try and have enough variety to account for tastes and dietary preferences. Nowadays, the wise approach is often to allow guests to do a little bit of preparing themselves.

For example, instead of putting the salad dressing in the salad, or putting condiments such as mayonnaise on the finger sandwiches, you can leave these for your guests to add themselves, if they so choose.

The same goes for deserts. While it’s wonderful to have rich cake and tasty pies available, it’s always nice to offer fruit as an alternative. Some people may not want to (or may not be allowed to!) consume that many calories, or enjoy that much sugar.

Things to Do: Games

2008-02-11T05:16:00.001-08:00

Baby showers are ideal places to play games. They not only help break the ice and get people laughing, but since baby showers are about having fun: what’s more fun than a good game? It’s better than working, right!

There are several games that you can play, ranging from old standards like charades, to more modern ideas like trivia games. A trip to your local toy store will fill you with several ideas of what could work.

However, you may feel like creating a game that has a kind of special baby shower feel to it; something that is entertaining and mildly competitive, but ties into the fact that it’s being played at a baby shower.

So in light of that, here are some great baby shower-specific games that come to us from geniusbabies.com (http://www.geniusbabies.com/babshowgam1.html). You can alter these games in any way that you wish to specifically suit your theme.

Game: The Winning Plate

This neat little game involves what most people love in life: food! Simply put a picture of a baby beneath one of the plates that will be handed out to guests as they eat. Don’t tell anyone that the picture is there; just let them eat. When the eating part of the event is coming to a close, tell your guests to peek under their plate, and give the lucky guest who has the picture a prize!

Game: The Price is Right

People seem to love this game, because it’s based on what many feel is the best game show of all time: The Price is Right!

Simply purchase a number of baby items, such as diapers, baby food, a pacifier, or anything that can be found in an ordinary neighborhood grocery store. Then, have the guests bid on how much they think everything cost. Reward each winning bidder with a prize; or offer them points, and then total up the points at the end. The winner of the overall game can then win a prize.

Game: That… Was ME?

This is a tremendously enjoyable game! Invite each guest to bring a baby picture of themselves. Collect each picture, and then put them on a giant board. During the baby shower, allow guests to go up and browse the big board of pictures.

Provide each guest with a piece of paper and a pen/pencil, and have them write down the names of who they think each picture is (put a number beside each picture so that they can be referenced).

At the end of the game, reveal the answers and see who has the best eye! This game is not only slightly competitive, but it also always leads to a lot of laughs and ohhhh you were so cuuuuuuute’s!

Theme: Literary Baby

2008-02-11T05:15:00.004-08:00

It doesn’t matter what kind of childhood we had, or how often we found ourselves curled up reading that very first book that made such a positive impression on our growing imaginations. It could have been a Dr. Seuss book, or perhaps something a bit later, such as your first Nancy Drew Mystery.

Regardless, a literary theme baby shower calls for each guest to bring (in addition to their gift) a special book from their childhood; something that inspired them and, indeed, continues to hold a fond place in their heart after all of these years.

Though it’ll be a number of years before the baby learns to read any of the books, they will serve as a wonderful library that the child can grow into; especially since each book has been chosen with such great care and affection.
Of additional value, having a literary theme is a fantastic ice breaker. It gives everyone a chance to share why the book was so special to them.

Chances are, there will be a lot of nodding, and smiling, and maybe even a few tears, too (the good kind, of course!).

Theme: Celebrity

2008-02-11T05:15:00.003-08:00

Really: who wouldn’t like feeling like a celebrity every now and then? Imagine, having people around you bustling to get your autograph, or to take a picture of you for those glamour magazines…ah, what a life.
The celebrity here, however, isn’t going to be you (sorry), or even the mother-to-be. It’s going to be her baby! So this theme calls for decorations that are worthy of a star – perhaps even a big Hollywood sign out on the lawn, or in the front hallway.

And the invitations, too, can be publicity releases instead of traditional invitations, announcing the coming out of Hollywood’s next rising star.
And, of course, don’t forget the cake! Instead of a regular cake, you can have one shaped like a star – like on the Hollywood Walk of Fame! All of these little elements help add humor and energy to the baby shower, and further ensure that it’s a memorable experience for everyone, especially the mother-to-be.

Theme: A Tea Party

2008-02-11T05:15:00.001-08:00

Do you remember playing tea party when you were a child? You’d get together with your little friends, or perhaps your stuffed animals (who were alive, of course), and together you sat down and enjoyed a pleasant and lighthearted chat over a cup of tea.

Back then, it’s possible that your tea was, well, of the invisible variety. After all, you weren’t allowed to have boiling water in your pot; you might burn yourself! Now, however, you’re all grown up and can enjoy the visible variety of tea (it tastes a little different).

To enjoy this theme, simply re-create that vision of when you were young. Invite all of your stuffed animals (who are still alive, of course), and have them sit in chairs around the area where the baby shower is being held (probably the living room or perhaps a finished basement).

This theme is sure to bring back a lot of warm memories for all of your guests; because most of us did play at tea a few times. To that end, you can invite each guest to bring a stuffed animal who can attend the festivities (and they can even leave the stuffed animal behind as a little bonus gift for the baby!).

PART 2: HOLDING THE SHOWER

2008-02-11T05:14:00.001-08:00

Okay. You’ve figured out when to hold the shower, who to invite, and whether or not to use a gift registry. So that’s all there is to it, right? Hardly!

Actually, you’ve done quite a bit of work (applaud yourself!). But there’s still more work to do. Now you’re really into the zone, and it’s time to figure out what you’re going to do at the shower.

Now, this may seem like a strange section. After all, people will show up at the shower, they’ll hug, smile, laugh, cry (joyfully, of course), and have a good time. That part is taken care of. Yet there’s more to it than this.

In addition to the natural events that are going to occur at the baby shower, you want to continue managing during the shower. In other words, you want to have things for your invitees to do, and for them to drink/eat.

Let’s look at each of these important aspects below.

Things to Do: Themes

In case you haven’t been a baby shower lately, here’s some useful information for you: themes are in!

This means that more and more people are opting to create a certain style, or theme, of baby shower. Do you remember those high school dances that were built around a theme? Like oldies theme, or rock & roll theme, or something else? And the decorations and so forth all reflected the chosen theme? Well, that’s the same deal here with thematic baby showers.

Now, the sky truly is the limit on what theme you’d like to use. Really: anything that you can imagine, provided that it’s realistic and within your budget, is fine.
To create a theme, simply have the following items reflect what you’ve chosen:

þ the invitations should themselves reflect the chosen theme (e.g. Alice in Wonderland)

þ the baby shower room should be decorated with items reflecting the theme (e.g. colors, posters, props such as stuffed animals or balloons)

þ the refreshments and food (discussed further in this book) should reflect the theme.

Now, just in case you want to get your creative juices flowing, some suggested themes are provided to you below. They’re all from the website www.babycenter.com, and from real people who held successful baby showers (just like yours will be!).

To Gift Registry or Not to Gift Registry

2008-02-10T06:57:00.001-08:00

This is another one of those fun decisions that involve the mother-to-be, and probably the father-to-be, as well. Gift registries are, generally speaking, wonderful inventions because the conveniently solve a lot of potentially confusing problems, such as:

• What will the parents-to-be want as a gift?

• What gift items have already been purchased by other invitees?

• What price range is appropriate?

So with all of this evidence in favor of gift registries, why might someone not use one? Well, there are few reasons.

The simplest reason is one of preference. Some people simply don’t want to limit the range of things that guests might buy; especially if some gifts aren’t typically found in stores that offer registries. For example, some artistic guests may want to create something for the baby; perhaps wooden mobile, or a beautiful picture to hang in the baby’s room.

These kinds of items, by definition, can’t appear on a gift registry; and so parents-to-be might wish to avoid using one.

Another reason is one of cost. Depending on the number of people invited to the baby shower, and presuming that those that have been invited attend, there may be a slight awkwardness if the registry contains gift possibilities that might frankly be outside of a person’s price range. This can indeed be awkward.

For example, if 20% of the gifts in the registry are below, say, $30, there is some possibility that these ones will be snatched up first; thus leaving a latecomer to buy something more expensive, or risk buying something that isn’t on the registry at all and therefore might not be wanted by the parents.

To help deal with this situation, it’s possible for you (as the organizer) for informally recommend that people band together to buy certain bigger ticket items, like a crib or a stroller. In this way, people can still stay within their budget limitations, yet purchase something that the parents want, and indeed, need (since babies can be very expensive!).

Remember, of course, that if you choose the registry route, that you provide all the necessary details. It may also be wise to include your phone number if anyone has any questions about gifts or the registry.
The handful of people who may be stuck with the expensive gifts may all call you around the same time, and you can tactfully suggest that they all get together and purchase an expensive item. Voila: problem solved!!

Sending out Invitations

2008-02-10T06:54:00.002-08:00

Okay, here’s where things can be a little bit awkward. Scratch that; here’s where some people dread being in charge of a baby shower, because at issue is: who to invite?

A good rule of thumb here is to work with the mother (and ideally, the father) to-be in order to decide who should attend, and who should be left off the list. This is a delicate scenario and can cause a number of minor headaches (even some major ones).

The problem is, simply, that while it would be ideal to invite everyone who would want to attend, that’s just not practical; either economically, or simply in terms of planning. Ultimately, decisions will have to be made, and if you can work with the parents-to-be to make these decisions, the chances of making wise ones will increase.
Once you’ve figured out who to invite – and this process can take a few days of thinking and re-thinking – the next step is to send out the invitations. Ensure that you do this well in advance of the baby shower. There are two major reasons for this.

Firstly, you want to give your invitees enough lead time to that if they do have something planned on the baby shower date that they can, if they wish, move those plans in order to attend. If you don’t provide them with enough notice, even if they want to change their existing plans, they might not be able to.

Secondly, you want to give people enough time to RSVP (i.e. confirm their attendance). Some people are not the most organized people in the world, and as such they might not RSVP right away. As such, you want to give them a bit of time to get to this on their ever-growing TO-DO list.

Now, there’s another issue here that we should discuss. Some people think, or just assume really, that if you don’t RSVP, that means you aren’t attending. That’s actually not technically correct. RSVP doesn’t mean (even in the French language from where it comes) that someone is going to attend. It simply means: please get back to me on this.

So what’s the issue? It’s that it can be a little disastrous to assume that if you don’t get an RSVP, that people won’t attend. Because some people will simply show up, and when you say that you assumed they weren’t coming because they didn’t “RSVP”, they may frown and say what we’re pointing out here: RSVP, itself, doesn’t mean yes or no. It just means: please respond.

Naturally, of course, people should RSVP and let you know if they’re going to attend. It’s the polite thing to do, without question. But polite is one of those eye of the beholder terms; and people who haven’t invested several days of their life to putting a memorable baby shower together may not realize how impolite they are being by just showing up, unannounced.

So how do you solve this problem? Well, like all good solutions: you head it off before it becomes a problem! While you want to have all of your invitees RSVP, you should make it utterly clear that you’d like a response regardless of whether they will attend. To that end, depending on the size of your baby shower guest list, you should include a self-addressed stamped envelope and a self-typed note with each invitation that says something like this:

Dear Mary,

You are warmly invited to attend a baby shower for our friend Darla!

The shower will be held on April 15th at 1:30pm. It will be held at my home, which is at 123 Main Street. It’s just one block east of Main and 8th Avenue, and ample parking is available on the street. If you need directions, please call me at 555-1234.

We’d like to have a sense of how many of Darla’s friends will be able to attend. Could you please fill out this form below by checking in the appropriate box, and then mail it to me in the self-addressed stamped envelope provided? Please Send it to me by March 28th. Thank you so much!

(please check one)

I will be attending Jane’s baby shower on April 15th at 1:30pm.

I regretfully will not be able to attend the baby shower.

*** Remember: Please mail before March 28th in the self-addressed stamped envelope provided. THANK YOU! ***

You can create any variation of this as you want. This is just a simple little sample that highlights the things that you should ask: whether an invitee is attending, or whether an invitee isn’t. In other words, you don’t want any grey area here; you don’t want any default that says: I didn’t reply, so I’m not coming. A little note like the one above obliges, in a polite and tasteful way, your invitee to actively let you know whether they’ll show up or not.

Now, if your baby shower guest list is smaller and it’s feasible to do so, you may want to skip the mailing campaign and just phone people up and ask them to attend. If you have the time and the ability to do so (e.g. the guest list is small enough for you to manage), this is the preferred method. It gives your invitees the opportunity to ask pertinent questions, such as whether the mother-to-be is in any gift registry. Let’s talk about this right now.

Post-Birth Baby Showers

2008-02-10T06:54:00.001-08:00

Some people are surprised to learn that many baby showers happen after the baby has been born. Actually, this is quite common because, in addition to having the shower itself, this timing affords guests the wonderful opportunity to actually see the baby (and make all kinds of goo goo gaa gaa noises that we all love to make!).

Holding a post-birth shower may also work out better in light of other factors noted above, such as climate, and preferences of the parents-to-be.

The Gifts

2008-02-10T06:53:00.003-08:00

This is one that most people don’t think about until someone brings it up, and then they say to themselves: ohhhh, yes, that makes sense! Fortunately for you, you’re getting a sneak-peak at that thought well before someone at the baby shower asks it!

As we all know, some people prefer to give gender-specific gifts. While, indeed, times have changed and makers of baby-related items are creating more gender-neutral items, there’s still a large contingent of people who want to give baby blue gifts to an impending son, or pink gifts to an impending daughter.

In light of this, if the parents-to-be have decided to learn the baby’s gender via ultrasound, and further decided to share that information with the world-at-large, then it may be very appreciated by the baby shower guests if you hold the shower after the baby’s gender information has widely disseminated. In other words: some people will be grateful that they know whether a boy or girl is on the way before they buy their gift.

Ultrasound gender diagnostic tests typically happen around the 9 week mark of gestation (though it can be later in some cases), and so this factor may influence whether you hold the shower early on, or wait until this information is known (assuming, of course, that the parents-to-be want to know!).

The Guests

2008-02-10T06:53:00.001-08:00

As we all know, December is a season for parties and events; both business, and personal. As a result, it may be polite to not hold the baby shower during “party season”, as it may influence whether people would be able to attend (or be able to relax when they attend, because they don’t have three more “get togethers” to go to after the baby shower!).

Furthermore, if you live in a wintry climate, it may be a pleasant idea to not have the baby shower in the dead of winter. True, life does go on in the middle of January and people go to work and do many of the things that they want to do (go shopping, go to restaurants, and so on), but if it makes absolutely no difference to you and the mother-to-be (and/or the father-to-be) whether the baby shower is held in late January or late April, then it may be advisable to choose the latter; simply for climate concerns.

The Mother-to-Be

2008-02-10T06:52:00.002-08:00

Let’s start with mother-to-be. She may have a preference about when the shower should be held; and this preference should be heeded. The father-to-be might also provide input here, which is wonderful and should be part of the overall decision-making process (we take a closer look at “couples” baby-showers later on in this book).

What kinds of things might influence a mother-to-be’s preference on when the shower should be held? Some of them prefer to have the shower when they’re showing; they may feel that there’s something more appropriate (for lack of a better word) about holding a shower when people can actually see that a baby is on the way.

In practical terms, this means that a shower might be held well into the second trimester, or into the third.

When Should the Shower Happen?

2008-02-10T06:52:00.001-08:00

This is an important question to ask, and of course, to answer. And as usual, there are a few different viewpoints on when to hold the baby shower. Fortunately, however, these views aren’t as debatable as they sometimes are when it comes to whether a relative or non-relative should hold the baby shower (as we discussed above). So don’t worry; this is a rather easy and straightforward challenge to solve.

Now, the real problem here is simply that there isn’t a clear answer to the question: when should the shower happen? The answer to this will almost always depend on factors that are specific to the mother-to-be, the guests, and other issues.

So rather than providing a “one-size-fits-all” answer here – which is something that we can’t do without knowing the details of your particular baby shower – let’s just look at the variables. Once you know these, you’ll easily be able to determine when the baby shower should be held.

PART 1: PLANNING THE SHOWER

2008-02-10T06:51:00.000-08:00

Who’ll Throw the Shower?

There’s an ongoing debate – that can actually become quite emotional and vocal – that tried to determine whether or not a relative should throw the baby shower. Traditionally, the view has been that a relative should not throw a baby shower, because it can appear that the relative is requesting gifts. Yet traditions change, and there are times when a sibling, or a cousin, or an aunt might be the ideal and somewhat convenient choice.

So what should you do? To answer this, we can respond with the best, and sometimes most unsatisfying answer of them all: it depends.

Sorry, but it really does depend. If you hail from a rather traditional or conventional background, it may be wise to see that a non-relative is in charge of the baby shower. In addition, even if you, personally, are comfortable with a relative throwing the baby shower, some of your guests – who may be less comfortable with it than you – may object (or just whisper about it behind your back).

Use your judgment here. Perhaps the most practical advice is this: if you can conveniently and pleasantly not have a relative run things, then that will likely be the best route to go. However, if that’s just not possible, plausible, or preferred, then don’t feel like you’re someone from outer space because you’re related to the mother-to-be. More and more people are breaking with tradition; especially since they feel that the perception of a relative “asking for gifts” arguably doesn’t exist anymore.

Gifts (which we talk about further on in this book) are rather integral to baby showers; it’s quite hard to imagine one without gifts. Since that is the case, whether a relative requests them from those attending the baby shower, or a non-relative requests them, arguably isn’t important to those attending. They’re likely focused on what the baby shower should focus on: the mother-to-be, and a wonderful opportunity to share in her joy.

Now, there’s an amusing (at least from our current detached perspective) on this that you should know about. Some people may not want to run the baby shower. It’s assumed that if you’re reading this, that you’re quite happy with the assignment, and you’d like to do some quality – and easy! – research so that everything goes off without a hitch.

Yet if you aren’t the one whose holding the baby shower, but perhaps the mother-to-be who is about to hand over this book to a relative or friend who will hold the shower, then we should take a little time-out to talk about something important.

A baby shower is a wonderful event that is filled with laughter, love, and perhaps a few tears (of happiness). Yet putting one together can require an investment of time. Not a lot of time; not compared to, say, planning a wedding or for some people, planning a vacation.

Yet it’s fair to simply note that putting together a baby shower does require some focus, and some time. If you’re about to nominate someone to take on this task, then please bear this in mind; that person should understand that they’ll need to do a little bit of work (but it’s fun work, of course).

And if you’ve been asked to put together a baby shower – or if it’s just been assumed that you’ll do it – and you’re a little worried about your own lack of time available, then don’t worry. This book will help you immensely. Furthermore, nothing is stopping you from recruiting a deputy or two to help you with the details, such as preparing food, refreshments, and helping with decorations and games.

INTRODUCTION

2008-02-10T06:50:00.001-08:00

How wonderful! One of your best friends in the whole wide world has just announced that she’s pregnant. Naturally, you’re delighted, and can’t hold back your tears of joy. It’s hard to imagine that, in just a matter of time, your special friend is going to be a mother (maybe even for the second or third time…or more!).

As you let the amazing news sink in, your friend is envisioning the journey that will usher in a new life into the world: the gynecologist visits, the morning sickness, the ultrasound testing, the roller coaster of emotions that will eventually culminate in an experience that defies description.

Indeed, despite the frequency of births – tens of thousands a day, all across the world – they remain nothing short of miraculous. It’s not hard to imagine, therefore, that your friend is reflecting on issues that are truly hard to put into words.

Your world, however, is rather more pragmatic. You’re thinking of the baby shower; or rather, you’re thinking that you might not know enough about planning and managing a baby shower. And that has you worried.

Well, worry no more! In your hands (or on your screen) is The Quick and Easy Guide to Baby Showers. Within the following pages, you’ll learn everything that you need to know to throw a perfect baby shower. You’ll learn about the elements of:

 Planning a Baby Shower from the Ground Up

 Managing a Baby Shower from Start to End

 Other Tips, Strategies, and Suggestions

Don’t worry if you’ve never organized a baby shower before. And worry even less if, in the past, you’ve tried to organize a baby shower but bumped into some obstacles along the way. This book is designed to be easy, practical, and fun. In fact, if you aren’t careful, you may just become a baby shower specialist, with people calling you up and asking you for your advice and insights. Now would that be fun?
As you make your way through this book, bear in mind that the suggestions in here are meant to be applied – and they do work – but there’s always an element of uniqueness to every baby shower.

So instead of putting together a baby shower in the way you might put together a recipe – adding ingredients exactly as they’re listed and ending up with a predictably tasty dish – you’re gently advised to approach your baby shower project a little differently. Use the advice in here as a guide for creating a magical day for the mother-to-be, and the caring people who attend the baby shower.

Some of the ideas in here you’ll want to take to the bank; others might not fit with what you’re trying to do, or what can be done (such as some of the baby shower games we talk about). Don’t worry if you apply only some of what you read here.

Use your common sense, and remember: baby showers are supposed to be fun and special events. They aren’t meant to be stressful, and the last person who should feel overwhelmed is you.

Now that you have this book, pulling together an excellent and memorable baby shower might be the easiest thing you do all year (or course, you don’t have to tell people it was so easy…).

Ideas and Theme for Your Baby Shower

2008-02-01T03:55:00.000-08:00

It is always a great joy to have someone added to your family, especially if it is a cute little baby. And how else would you celebrate the joy of having one? Plan the most fun and unique baby shower youl ever have. Preparing for a baby shower should be fun and exciting. You can be as creative as you want. Go simple or go real extravagant. As long as you will make your party special and unforgettable, you can go ahead and experiment on the different themes you can have.

You can go traditional or get a little creative and make your baby shower a lot more unique. You can spice up the party with different themes that can either be serious, adorable or humorous.

Below are some popular themes ideas that would surely be a hit in any baby showers.

Color themes
The usual color themes for girls are pink and blue for the boys. These are simple themes that can be just as fun as other themes. Decorate your venue with your chosen color theme. In putting up colored ribbons, intertwine them with a white ribbon too. This would give the room an elegant look. If you are unsure whether your baby would be a boy or a girl, settle for neutral colors like green or yellow.

Baby bottles theme
You can have a baby bottle as your centerpiece in this particular theme. Use them as cute containers for game prizes. You can make fun of them too by using baby bottles as cups or mugs.

Teddy bear theme
Everyone loves these cuddly teddies. They are perfect for decorations. You don have to buy teddy bears though to fill up the room. Old but presentable ones will do. It would be memorable to have the guest of honor favorite teddy as a centerpiece.

Diaper theme
Begin with sending cute diaper cut- out invitation. Guests should bring their own diaper gifts with a particular size. This way, you can save on diapers even up to three months!

Nursery rhyme theme
It a good idea to make nursery rhymes as theme for your party. You can make use of famous character like Humpty Dumpty, Little Bo Peep, or the famous Mother Goose. Pictures could be nice as decorations but it would really look nice if you have some kind of a replica. You can also add on some of the line to your invitations.

Themes for twins
Remember the famous Noah ark story? All animals are paired in two when lodging the ark. It the perfect theme for expectant mothers of twins. Don forget to note in your invitation that you will be having twins, this way; guests will have to bring two gifts of either the same kind or two different ones.

Fairytale Themes
There are thousand of fairytale characters that have been a tradition throughout baby shower parties. Cinderella and Snow White are the most common ones for girl. Peter Pan is the most suitable character for boys. This kind of theme can be made interesting with colorful decorations and creates a fantasy- like atmosphere.

Having a theme in your baby shower can add a little more coordination in the things you need to prepare. A theme would dictate which kind of food you need to prepare, the look of the invitations and how you would decorate your chosen venue. With a theme, you would have to be groping in the dark on how you would create that perfect baby shower.

Ideas for a Baby Shower Theme

2008-01-31T05:56:00.000-08:00

There are people who prepare not to select a theme when they prepare for a baby shower. However, having a baby shower theme makes the celebration more organized.

When you have chosen a theme, you can easily think about what decoration you are going to use for your desired theme. Without a theme, you are likely to pick several items that you feel will look good, combine these, and get an unorganized look.

Selecting and preparing a baby shower theme is not a difficult task. Here are some suggestions to give you an idea on how to create a theme for your baby shower.

Teddy Bears

Since the teddy bear is one of the first toys the child will own, it is nice to have a teddy bear theme. You can use medium-sized teddy bears to design the baby shower party area. It is not necessary to buy the teddy bears; you can borrow these from friends and family members. Also, you can purchase small teddy bears as party favors to give to your guests.

Stars

Stars symbolize dreams. "A star is born," they say. You can decorate the place with stars hanging from thin strings. You can also design the walls and the ceiling with stars and heavenly bodies. The program may also include wishes for the baby on how he or she will be a bright star.

Diapers

This is the basic need of the newborn baby. The baby shower organizer can decorate the area with diapers, especially those with cute colors and designs. You can even prepare a diaper cake by neatly stacking the diapers together.

The organizer can also ask the guests to bring diapers as gifts. A better idea would be to have a raffle for a special prize in which the raffle entry will be a diaper. This will help the guests since they wouldn't have to think on what gift to buy. It also helps the parents a lot, since they will have a supply of diapers for several months.

Books

Baby and kid books are good gifts for the baby. With a collection of baby books, the parents can have a small library for the baby.

The decorations can be anything related to books. You can place books on the table, or design the walls with books. You can even have a book-shaped cake and cookies.

Noah's Ark

This is a good idea if the parents are expecting twins. The guests will be requested to bring a pair of gifts for the babies. Pairs of stuffed animals may be used to decorate the place.

Prince/Princess

Everyone wants the new baby to feel like a prince or a princess. You can adorn the place with fairy tale concepts pertaining to royalty. You can create miniature towers and castles, a garden and shining stuff fit for a royalty.

Fairy

This is a good option if you will be having the baby shower in the garden. You can enhance the garden surroundings to make it look like the home of fairies. You can include vines, arches, bees and butterflies, as well as small fairy-like decorations to create a fairy garden.

Characters

You can choose a storybook or cartoon character as a theme. How about a superhero? There are lots of options, and once you have selected one, you can think about what items the character is associated with that you can use for the party.

With these simple ideas, you can conceptualize a special baby shower theme that will be remembered by the parents and the guests.

Essentials Checklist For Baby Shower Supplies

2008-01-30T06:26:00.000-08:00

To help you plan yours or a friend's baby shower, use this checklist to ensure you have all the supplies you need for a wonderful baby shower.

Printed cards

The invitation card is the primary element in the baby shower. It should carry the theme of the party to let the guests know what to expect. It will also guide them in buying the baby shower gift. Send the invitations at least a month in advance. Make sure to RSVP so you can plan against the right number of guests.

Depending on your budget, you may choose from a variety of invitations. The Internet offers such a variety, from the free and already printable to the online-purchased customized invitations. If you are computer savvy, you may use your home printer and a desktop publishing software to create-your-own themed baby shower invitation.

While on the subject of invitation cards, prepare the thank you cards at the same time. Ensure that your theme emanates in the layout of the thank you card. Sending out thank you cards provides proper closure to the party and gives your guests a lasting memory of the fun they had.

Games and Activities

While your invitations are being produced, plan for the party activities. Games will enliven each activity and entice participation from the guests. Depending on your theme, choose the games that are suitable to the theme, or customize them to suit. For example, the traditional bring me game can be customized by asking to ring me?pink colored items, for a baby girl shower theme.

Prizes are as important in making the occasion memorable, so be prepared to give prizes to all game winners and sometimes, even participants.

Prepare or add on to this list as required by the activities that you have planned. Make sure that you have listed all the things needed to make the activity successful and to avoid last-minute paraphernalia substitutes.

Party Venue Set-up

As dictated by the theme, set-up the party place accordingly. If it is a layette party, hang a clothesline all around the room and clip colored paper cutouts of baby clothes and stuffs. For the Hollywood theme, copy the set-up by having a red carpet where guests will walk-in.

Food and Drinks

The other half of a lively party is overflowing food and drinks. Make sure that as you finalize the number of guests, you are able to buy enough food and drink supplies for the headcount. Buy an extra 10% more to make sure that hungry guests get their fill. Like the games and activities list, expand this section to include details on the supplies needed for your specific menu.

Baby Shower Souvenirs

Aside from the game prizes, give your guests a thank you token for attending and participating in the baby shower. Note that this is different from a thank you card, which will be sent to individual guests as a thank you for their gift. Thus, guest who may not have brought gifts can still receive this baby shower souvenir. It does not need to be expensive, especially if there are game prizes given out. Just be sure to have it in-line with your theme to complete the effect.

Celebrate the coming of a newborn in an organized fashion. Use this checklist of baby shower supplies to plan for a successful baby shower.

BABY SHOWER RECIPES: SOME SAMPLES TO CHOOSE FROM

2008-01-29T06:08:00.000-08:00

A baby shower is a kind of party that celebrates and welcomes a new member to the family. In this tradition, expectant parents usually receive gifts or money for their expected child, which, in a way, supports the parents by helping them get the things that they need for their baby (or the things that they may not be able to afford).

Baby showers are generally held in the later stages of pregnancy (in the last 2 months, for instance). There are, however, certain cultural beliefs that make people purposefully wait for the baby to arrive before having a baby shower. Adoptive parents, at times, wait until after the adoption is final and the baby has arrived in their home.

Baby showers are generally organized by close friends, relatives, or co-workers of the expectant parents (because baby showers center on gift-giving, it is considered inappropriate for a family member to host such events).

In its early form, baby showers were held exclusively for mothers-to-be, and only women were invited to attend the party. In addition, baby showers were traditionally held only for the first child. Today, however, many people arrange baby showers for both parents, and they can now be also arranged for every succeeding children (even children who have been adopted).

Activities in a baby shower typically include games, special activies, presents, and, most especially, food.

Below are some of the most common baby shower recipes:

Pizza Sandwiches

Pizza sauce (can be store-bought or homemade)
Cottage cheese (lowfat)
English muffins
Parmesan cheese

1. Mix 2-3 tbsp of pizza sauce with 2-3 tbsp of cottage cheese.

2. Spread the mixture onto one half of the English muffin.

3. Sprinkle with parmesan cheese.

4. Broil for 5 minutes or until cheese is melted. Serve.

Creamy Tomato Soup

1 tsp vegetable oil
1 can tomato soup (condensed)
Milk
1 tbsp basil
Mozarella or croutons (for toppings)

1. Heat vegetable oil in a medium saucepan.

2. Add the tomato soup.

3. Add milk (approximately the same amount as that of the tomato soup).

4. Add basil and cook slowly on low heat (do not boil).

5. Top with a sprinkling of shredded mozzarella and croutons. Serve.

Cheese Balls

?lb cheese (cheddar or grated)
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1 pack cream cheese
4 oz Tabasco sauce
2 tsp onion
Chopped nuts
2 tsp catsup or chili sauce

1. Mix all ingredients together using a mixer or a food processor (the cheese should be at room temperature).

2. Empty mixed ingredients on small bowls lined with plastic wrap.

3. Refrigerate overnight.

4. To serve, remove wrap and sprinkle with nuts. Serve with assorted crackers.

Chicken Puffs

4 tbsp butter
?cup boiling water
?cup flour
2 eggs
?cup shredded cheese
2 cups cooked chicken
2 tbsp olives
2 tbsp wine
?cup mayonnaise

1. Melt butter in boiling water.

2. Add flour.

3. Stir vigorously until mixture forms a ball.

4. Remove from heat and cool slightly.

5. Add egg and beat briskly until smooth.

6. Stir in cheese.

7. Scoop 1 tsp dough into a greased baking sheet.

8. Preheat oven to 400蚌.

9. Bake the puffs for 20 minutes. Remove from oven, cool, and split.

10. Combine the remaining ingredients with the finely chopped cooked chicken, pimiento, and olives.

11. Fill each puff with 2 tsp of the mixture. Serve.

There are just some of the baby shower recipes, there are numerous others to choose from - from sandwiches & finger foods, to snacks and dips and sweets - appetizing, yet simple and very easy to prepare.

Baby Shower Poems Add Vibrance to Life

2008-01-28T05:53:00.000-08:00

Poetry is such vibrant means of communicating. It is one's creative way of expressing emotion, intellect and aspirations. It is filled with sentiment and mirrors the individual's true inner being. Such channel of expression is befitting an equally elating occasion: the anticipated arrival of a newborn. Here are ways of incorporating poems into the momentous event, the baby shower.

Invitation Poems

Poetry about babies can give the baby shower invitation added charm. Think of what it feels like to have a baby, the hope of anticipation and the fulfillment of birth. Include in the poem how you're like those wonderful feelings to be shared with the guest being invited. Finally, to give the invitation a customized appeal, include the invitation details in the poem, carefully spreading the details, all throughout the verse, if possible.

Thank You Poems

Thank you poems are creative ways of expressing love and happiness for the future newborn. With the upcoming occasion, there are many things to thank for: having God blessing in such a feeble form or having the support of family and friends while playing the waiting game. Mom-to-be can deliver the thank you poem. If it is a co-ed baby shower, the Dad-to-be can do the honors.

Another way of saying thank you is through the baby shower thank you card. This is sent to all guests who gave gifts for the occasion. Include a short rhyme on how blessed the baby is for having guardians as loving as the guest who sent the gift. Then end by thanking them for it.

Poems for Baby Shower Activities

It is unusual to have a baby shower and poetry reading in one, but it is an idea that can work among a very strong lyrical society. Most poets are very comfortable in expressing and conversing in verses, and if the future parents are poets themselves, then a poetry reading baby shower is not a bad idea. Who knows?they maybe anticipating a future rhymester!

However, if you are like the rest of the world, incorporating poems is not impossible in the conventional baby shower. It actually adds an enriching dimension to the event that everyone can gain knowledge from. Use rhymes to open and close the event, or when praising the Mom-to-be or future newborn. Riddles are also poems so use them in a game of treasure hunt or guessing game.

Cake Poetic Inscriptions

Since Verses and Rhymes is a good theme for a baby shower, why not include a line on the cake? Express how your future newborn is as sweet as the cake, or how much everyone is lovingly waiting for the baby. Mom-to-be does the honor of articulating the cake inscription before cutting it.

Baby Shower Favors

A fundamental part of any baby shower is the party favors, both as prizes and memorabilia. This is a wonderful opportunity to incorporate poems!

For winning games, contests or solving riddles, prizes can be awarded together with a poem about how remarkable the win was. The poetic party host can pronounce, in verses, how amazing the game was played and how miraculous winner won. Lastly, prize recipients can give their own Thank you?verse or two.

As the guests leave, give them an inexpensive memento of the occasion, and as in the whole baby shower theme, include a poem about how it was made special because of the guest's presence.

Poems indeed, add more life to such a warmhearted occasion about giving life: the baby shower.

Tips on Planning a Baby Shower

2008-01-25T19:24:00.000-08:00

What comes to mind after hearing the four magical words, “We’re having a baby?” A baby shower, of course. Organizing a party with the expectant parents’ closest friends and family members is the perfect way of expressing “Congratulations,” or “We’re happy for you,” or “Best wishes.”

Aimed at further boosting the parents-to-be’s excitement for the future member of their family, the baby shower is usually hosted by a close friend or relative, at any time during the last months of the pregnancy.

Just like any other party, a baby shower requires careful planning to ensure that it will go as smoothly as possible, and be memorable for everyone. Although there are no rules cast in stone in preparing for a baby shower, there are some helpful tips to follow to help the host organize every aspect of the event.

1) Decide on the location.

Most baby showers are held at the parent-to-be’s house, since the expectant mother’s health needs to be considered. It is recommended for small, intimate parties, with only the closest friends and family members. Guests also tend to be more comfortable if the party’s setting is at home.

If the expectant parents love the outdoors, a barbecue party at their garden, or a local park may also be an option. Naturally, the weather must be considered – baby shower does not literally mean soaking the guests in the rain.

For less complications, the host may reserve a secluded area in a restaurant or bar. It may be more costly, but at least the decoration, food and drinks, as well as the post-party cleanup will already be taken care of.

2) Choose the party’s theme.

For easier decoration ideas, a theme may be decided upon. Consider the expectant parents’ favorite movies or hangouts. Another option is to decorate the party site by re-creating the place where they had their honeymoon, such as a cruise ship, or Paris-inspired café.

Since the party will also be a celebration of the future baby, a childish atmosphere may also be considered. Choose cartoon characters, bright colors, and other designs depending on the baby’s gender.

3) Finalize the menu.

The party’s menu will depend upon the time of the event. In most baby showers, the host serves finger food, pastries and other baked goods for convenience. However, if the event will be held during lunch or dinner time, heavier meals will naturally be served. Alcoholic drinks may also be prepared, depending on the guests’ preference.

4) Design a fun program.

Contrary to what most people believe, a baby shower is not only limited to mingling around, gift giving, eating and drinking. Fun games may also be included, such as charades, or those which will bring back the guests’ childhood memories. Remember that the main point is to make sure everyone will have a good time, and various games will surely liven up the event.

5) Create the guest list and send out invitations.

Prepare a list of the expectant parents’ closest friends and family members. Make sure to seek their approval before sending out invitations, to avoid any embarrassing mistakes later. Bear in mind that it’s the parents’ event, and not the host’s, so their choice of people should matter the most.

Ready-made baby shower invitations are readily available in gift shops and craft stores. However, homemade invitations may also be used to provide the host’s personal touch.

Send out invitations out two to four weeks before the party to give time for the guests to fix their schedule. Baby shower invitations follow the same format as any other invitation — it indicates the date, time, place, attire preferred, gift registry, if any, the host’s contact numbers for RSVP. Just to be organized, prepare a final list of attendees a few days before the baby shower.

Selecting Baby Shower Party Favors

2008-01-21T07:18:00.000-08:00

After you have conceptualized and prepared for the party, never forget to prepare a small token to thank your guests for coming.

These baby shower party favors need not be expensive. These may be simple things that can be ordered in bulk, and then personalized for the celebration.

When you are choosing baby shower party favors, make sure that you have also considered the theme of the baby shower. As much as possible, have the party favor coordinate with the baby shower theme.

If your theme has something to do about fairy tales, cartoon characters, animals or toys, your baby shower favors may be a miniature version of these toys.

If you haven't selected a theme or would like to have a baby shower favor that is not very much related to the theme, here are some ideas.

* Chocolates and Cookies

If you have some baking skills, this is the recommended baby shower party favor. These do not cost much if you bake them yourself. Placing an order for these is also an option, however, that may take a considerable part of your budget.

You can have chocolates and cookies personalized by shaping them into baby item shapes. You can have rattle-, baby shoes-, book-, or teddy bear-shaped pastries.

You can wraps these in fancy papers of foils and tie these in blue or pink ribbons.

* Soaps

These are becoming popular baby shower party favors. You can choose fragrant soaps and wrap them in decorative papers, or place them in decorative gift boxes or bags.

You can also make homemade soaps and shape them into baby-related items. Or you can also purchase regular soap bars and carve them into baby shapes. Just make sure the soaps are hard enough that these won't crack when you start carving them.

* Picture frames

This are one of the most popular baby shower party favors. If the baby shower party is done are the baby is delivered, you can also include your baby's picture in the frame. The picture frames can be in small sizes that can be purchased at low prices.

* Figurines

Instead of picture frames, figurines are also good options. You can choose figurines that represent your theme. Angel, teddy bear and baby figurines are also popular.

* Candles

Candles as baby shower party favors are usually colored blue or pink. You may also opt to have fragrant candles. Candles can be purchased in bulk or you can also make your own candles. This even allows you to personalize the color, size, shape and fragrance.

Some candles can also come in reusable glass candleholders that also serve as decorative items.

These are just some of the options for baby shower party favors. Surely, you can think of more option or personalize these to fit your chosen theme.

Nevertheless, whatever baby shower party favor you have chosen, make sure that you have included thank you note on the baby shower party favor. The thank you note should include the date, the name of the baby (or the parent's names), and a message of thanks.

It is better if a special poem was composed to be included in the thank you note. Also, you can just choose free poems online and have these printed together with the thank you note.

With these, you can let your guests know how much you have appreciated their presence in celebrating your baby's birth.

The importance of baby shower party favors

2008-01-14T04:13:00.000-08:00

So you have a venue, a long list of guests and an array of games in mind. But do you have baby shower party favors? It's is easy to forget or deliberately skip a little detail like preparing party favors when you are caught among the hustle and bustle of planning a baby shower. But giving baby shower party favors are important. They provide a way to thank your guests for attending a very special occasion in your life. A baby shower party favor also gives your guests something to remember the event by. It's like giving them a little bit of baby love if you may.

Of course you are not obliged to give party favors to your guests when throwing a baby shower party. And your gusts shouldn expect to go home with something other than a good time. But still, it would be nice to hand out a memento of the special occasion. And don worry. You really wouldn't have to spend a fortune when you give baby shower party favors.

Preparing baby shower party favors need not be take a lot of money and time. The Internet can be a great source for baby shower party favors. By simply typing aby shower party favors?in a search engine you would see a return thousands of online resources that sells or provides ideas for excellent baby shower party favors.

Shopping online for baby shower party favors is very ideal for individuals who are always pressed for time. Many online stores offer baby shower party favors like personalized, candy bar wrappers and more.

Remember to choose a seller that provides high quality and affordable baby shower party favors. When you search on the web you will be surprised that there many websites offering unique baby shower party favors. The items range from the cutesy to the more sophisticated. The items include chocolate bars, bath soaps, picture frames, figurines, stuffed toys, etc. They have an item for every taste and budget.

Of course if you are the creative and crafty type, you always have the option to make the baby shower party favors yourself. You need not be overly talented or skillful, all you need is a little artistic sensibilities, patience and some materials and your ready to make your baby shower party favor masterpiece.

Your project need not be complicated. It could be as simple as making wrappers and decorative boxes for candies, soaps or candles. If you are fond of baking and cooking then you can bake cookies or make chocolate in shape appropriate for baby showers like rattles, baby bottles, babies and teddy bears. Or if you have a garden at home, you can give away plants and flowers. Or if you know how to paint, then you could create a masterpiece out of baby cloth diapers or bibs by painting cute and colorful designs on them.

The idea is to utilize whatever artistic skills you have to make baby shower party favors. Homemade baby showers are very idea because they add a personal touch to the baby shower party favors plus they will definitely save you a lot of money as compared to ready made or store bought baby shower party favors. Again, the web will be very helpful if you decide to make your own baby shower party favors.

Ideas on wordings for your baby shower invitation

2008-01-13T03:31:00.000-08:00

Your baby shower is on the way. You have all things prepared: food, fun, games, and the program. But wait, you forgot something critical. The party invitation! You basically forgot something really important when holding a party. What good is a party if there are no guests?

Creating party invitations may take some time if are choosy with words. Selecting the best wordings for the invitation is imperative as this sets the tone of the party. If the party theme is casual, you definitely can relay that in the invitation. Knowing which theme party you want can be used as guidelines in picking out the right words for your invitation. Fun themes like teddy bear and balloon party requires humorous and informal wordings.

You can make use of poems, famous quotes, or you can create your own too. There are several websites that offer sample wordings you can adapt for your invitation. Make a quick search and pick the catchiest wordings that you can emulate in your invitations. It can either be a general one or gender specific. Just be sure that you know ahead of time what gender the baby has.

Using baby rhymes would be a superb idea in your baby invitation. Placing the names of the expecting parents will give the invitation a personal touch. You can also put in song lyrics that are popular with kids and even nursery rhymes. Famous kiddie rhymes like Humpty Dumpty, Baa Baa Black sheep and Hickory, Dickory, Dock can add spice to your invitation too.

The main things that your baby shower invitation should include are the name of the guest of honor, the date, time, and where it will be held. If the venue for the party is quite unfamiliar to the guests, make a simple sketch to guide them to the right place. These key information are needed, and make sure that they are printed big and clear.

Don forget to place in the invitation whether the event will be a surprise or not. If the party is going to be a surprise, your guest should be informed to keep it secret. You would not want any guest sending in advanced gifts for the party and spoil the plan.

Another important thing to place on the invitation is the RSVP or Regrets only note. Don forget to place your phone number in there too of course, as guests likely will contact you their response as you requested them to.

You might want to add a registry list or the gifts you wanted your guests to bring. This is very practical if you don want to end up having three or four strollers which you may not use. Guests would love it if their gifts would be appreciated and would not end up just being set aside.

As important as the wordings, the presentation of the invitation speaks too. Follow the theme if you have one. If you select angels, place cute pictures of these on the invitation cover for the desired effect. If you don necessarily have a theme, then just select pictures that relates to a baby. Colors are important too. Use blue for boys and pink for girls. Invitations are there to create impression and entice your guests to come in this very special day. So unleash your creativity, get that pen and have fun writing.

The Special Purpose of Baby Shower Invitations

2008-01-09T06:18:00.001-08:00

For couples who are expecting their first child, having a baby is the most important thing in the world. In fact, it is the basic foundation of the family. Others even contend that a family is not complete without the children.

It is for this reason that most of the people consider the arrival of the baby as something relatively worth celebrating. That is why there are baby showers to celebrate the essence of bringing a new soul into the world.

Baby showers are focused, generally, on the celebration of the baby arrival. Mostly, it is the couple friends or the immediate family who arrange the baby shower.

Planning this kind of party can be tedious and wearisome. However, with the right strategy and tactics, everything will turn out fine.

As a part of the preparation, one of the most important things to be considered is the baby shower invitations. It is important to choose the right baby shower invitations to inform everybody the arrival of the new baby.

Why Are Baby Shower Invitations Important?

The main reason or purpose of baby shower invitations is to let everybody know that there will be a celebration about the arrival of the new baby.

Hence, if there will be no invitations to be distributed to the people who should be attending the party, then there will be no one who will attend and the celebration is useless.

Moreover, baby shower invitations reflect the kind of mood that is set for the event. It is not just a mere invitation but also as a reflection of the gladness of everyone who is delighted for the baby arrival. That is why it is important to create baby shower invitations that would manifest sheer pleasure at the same time creativity of those who are involved in the planning of the party.

So, for people who are planning to conduct a baby shower, here are some tips on how to come up with a right, if not perfect, baby shower invitation.

1. It is best to use handmade baby shower invitations for a more creative touch.

The best thing about personalized or handmade baby shower invitations is that it reflects the beauty and style of the event. The concept of the design is artistically embedded in the invitation, which is inspired by the arrival of the baby.

Moreover, handmade baby shower invitations are more durable and hardwearing, so you can expect that it will endure whatever elements may instigate its wear and tear.

2. Choose a baby shower invitation that is suitable to the taste and preference of the mother-to-be.

In most cases, the friends and relatives of the parents-to-be are the ones who make the necessary arrangements of the party. However, it does not necessarily mean that they will not consider the taste and preference of the parents-to-be.

Therefore, it is necessary to consider the parents, especially the mother-to-be, so that there will be no conflicts or any misunderstanding within the celebration.

3. Shop around

Before choosing a baby shower invitation, it is necessary that you shop around first, compare prices, and analyze the designs. In this way, you will be able to come up with something that is carefully chosen and meticulously selected baby shower invitation.

Best of all, you will be able to obtain baby shower invitations that is perfect for the budget.

All of these things are boiled down to the fact that the most important thing about baby showers is to reflect the joy of every person and the parents-to-be on the arrival of the baby. It is not about the party itself but the fact that everybody is delighted to know that eventually, the bundle of joy will soon arrive. And, this calls for a celebration, indeed!

Ideas for baby shower invitaions

2008-01-08T05:29:00.000-08:00

An invitation sets the mood and style for any event. That's why in planning for a baby shower party, you should give significant attention to the baby shower invitation. Remember that you should always send out invitations for special occasions like baby shower. The good news is you don't have to leave your home when shopping for quality baby shower invitation. The Internets is full of different baby shower invitations from different styles and designs, from casual to formal to elegant and cute. There is also baby shower invitation for every budget range. You can even find invitations with chocolate and candies, with the details printed on the wrapper. Now, isn't that neat?

Look for a website with a wide collection of baby shower invitation designs and styles. Some companies would be happy personalize an invitation and some would even address and mail them for you. Now that's really hassle free service. All of you have to do is choose your design, give them he necessary information then attend to the more important aspects of your baby shower.

Confused at the many choices of baby shower invitation? Not knowing what baby shower invitation style or design to choose? Your main guide should be the theme of baby shower party. Is the baby shower party a formal event or is t just a simple gathering? In picking the right baby shower invitation for your baby shower party, you must choose one that reflects the theme of the party. If you are planning a jungle themes party then you must choose invitation with animals and jungle prints. If you are planning to decorate with angels then choose baby shower invitation with angles and other heavenly things. If you are planning to decorate with a specific cartoon character then choose an appropriate invitation. If you don not have a theme then choose an invitation with a general baby themed design like animals, baby bottles, babies, stars, rattles, cartoon characters, etc.

Once you're already decided on what kind of baby shower invitation to get, you can go to the process of ordering them. When you have the invitations already you can already start filling them up. Remember to include the following information: Name of guest of honor, date, time, place, whether it will be a surprise or not, RSVP date and phone number or return card. You should precise as to the details of the baby shower so as to avoid confusion.

If you have to send out the invitation yourself then you must mail it at least 4 ?6 weeks before the baby shower. If guests are from faraway places then send it 8 ?12 weeks in advance. It would also be nice to include a map or sketch of the location of the event.

The most important thing that your should remember is to make the invitation as attractive as possible. It is an invitation for an event announcing the arrival of your baby so it has to be special.

If you are the creative and crafty type, you can always make your own babsy shower invitation. Pick up ideas, from your frids, relatives, books or from the Internet. Making your won baby shower invitation would definitely add a personal touch to the event.

Baby shpwer invitauos come in a vcaruety of styles and designs. The babay shower inviataion you will buy should be according to your choiuce and rpefernece.

Baby Shower Invitation: Not Just Your Ordinary Ink and Paper Invitations

2008-01-05T21:06:00.001-08:00

When it comes to baby showers, creating a creative baby shower invitation is one of the best ways to set the ambiance and fashion of the event. It can be very amusing especially if it aims to invite friends and relatives to celebrate with the would-be parents in rejoicing for the arrival of the new baby.

In fact, most people contend that a baby shower invitation is the most important thing in a baby shower because no one will know about the celebration if not for it. Hence, the party will never be successful if there will be no baby shower invitations to guide the guest as well as the host of the party.

Good enough, finding baby shower invitation ideas are no longer hard these days. This is because technological advancements had definitely provided the humanity with utmost services that can be truly worth it. Simply put, you can now find hundreds of baby shower invitations ideas if you will just browse in the Internet.

In this way, you will have many ideas to choose from and come up with ideas that are perfect for the baby shower. These particular sites on baby shower invitations do not just provide you with themed ideas or other concerns of the invitation but also offer some practical tips on the other aspects of baby shower parties.

Generally, people who usually organize baby showers use general baby shower invitation themes. This is because in most cases the gender of the baby is yet unknown.

That is why, another aspect of baby shower invitation, which should not be taken for granted, are the wordings. It is the one responsible in setting the mood of the party.

Today, you can find many tools online concerning the choice of baby shower invitation wordings. You can either find them as quotes or as literary pieces like poems. Just be sure that before you decide on the final product, do not forget to proof read the wordings and spelling or typographical errors to avoid problems that may occur.

Whatever way you want it, you just have to be very careful on your wordings so that you get the best results that you want to have. Best of all, careful choice of words would be safer technique in order not to hurt or insult the would-be parents.

Moreover, when making baby shower invitations, please do not forget to include the important details of the party and to whom the invitation is for. These things are considered the core of the invitations.

For this reason, it is important to take note of the name of the guest of honor, date, time, and place of the party. It is important to indicate as well whether the party will be a surprise or not so that the guest will not be confused about the real motive of the celebration. Do not forget to include also an RSVP with the date and phone number included.

Lastly, make it a point to distribute baby shower invitations 4 to 6 weeks earlier. This will give the guests enough time to fix their schedules and find time for the said celebration. In this manner, it would be better to make the invitations earlier so that there will be enough time for any minor adjustments, when needed.

Indeed, creating baby shower invitations can be a daunting task, with all the preparations, research, and everything. But what matters most is that these invitations are the ones that will initiate the idea of the celebration, therefore, it should be well taken care of.

The Perfect Baby Shower Ideas

2008-01-04T20:52:00.000-08:00

For most parents, especially to mothers-to-be, waiting for the new baby's arrival is, indeed, one of the most cherished and much-awaited event. They would usually spend each waking hour counting the ticks of the clock, the droplets that tap on the window pane, and the days in the calendar just to confirm how many days are still left before the baby's due arrival.

In order to lessen the anticipation of the parents, having a baby shower is one of the most feasible ways to cut back the long-wait.

A baby shower is actually one type of party wherein money or gifts are given to the expectant mother in lieu of the baby's arrival. The relatives or friends of the parents are the ones who usually organize the party.

It has not been founded in any historical events and is slowly taking recognition in the United States and in countries where the way of life in the U.S. are incorporated.

The basic purpose of organizing baby showers is to help the parents manage and organize the items needed for the baby's due arrival. It is also one way of celebrating the joy and excitement of having a new member in the family ?the baby.

Hence, it is important for the organizers to come up with ideas or themes that they think would best suit the mother's personality or the tone of the occasion. And because it is one type of merrymaking, themes that will be use in the baby shower should reflect the joy and happiness being felt by everybody.

In reality, coming up with a good theme for the baby shower can be very tedious for the organizers. There are so many considerations that you have to take into account before deciding on a specific theme. Best of all, it has to suit the gender of the baby.

Planning for the baby shower and getting some solid information for remarkable baby shower ideas would be a lot easier if the sex of the baby is known. It really helps a lot.

In this manner, you will be able to know which colors to use, what kind of games to play, and what theme to integrate.

However, there are instances wherein the sex of the baby is not known. In turn, organizers will be having a difficult time organizing things and arranging the details of the baby shower.

But this should not discourage the organizers like you in coming up with an excellent and fascinating baby shower. All you have to do is to do your homework and search for some generalized and yet amusing baby shower ideas. From games to party favors, you can make the party worth your guests?time.

Where to Get Baby Shower Ideas?

For most people, coming up with great baby shower ideas is a breeze. They can easily think of something that can be really appealing.

However, there are people who really cannot generate feasible and remarkable baby shower ideas. And so, it is best that they seek the help of some magazines, advices from relatives and friends, and the Internet.

Indeed, with the advent of information technology, coming up with a notable baby shower idea is not difficult. With tons of web sites that cater to those who are planning to organize a baby shower, you can never run out of great baby shower ideas.

Boiled down, people should always remember that whatever baby shower ideas they will use in the party, it is best if they will always reflect the joy and happiness of everybody for the baby抯 arrival.

Ideas for Baby Showers

2008-01-03T05:34:00.000-08:00

People do baby showers in anticipation of the newborn baby. This is usually done by a group of close friends of the future mother to be. Such events are mainly for gift giving which make it awkward for a family member of the mother to be to host such an event.

This can be done a month or two before the arrival of the baby or right after the baby is born.

Invitations should symbolize the birth of the future baby. One can get an invitation that has been made by a card company but for it to be special, it is best to choose the design then have it custom made.

Just like any other invitation, it should have the name of the person to be invited, when and where the event will take place, the contact number of the one hosting the event, the gender of the baby and the theme of the party.

The invitations should be given out a month to a month and half prior to the event. This will give people time to make plans for that day and pick the right gift.

Since the party has to have a theme, there are many to choose from and it all depends on the gender of the baby.

If it is a boy, an example of a good theme is a sailboat. The place can be setup with all sorts of boats both big and small. The punch bowl used for the cocktail can also have one that has a centerpiece. The most important thing for this kind of theme is the name of the baby which can be highlighted using an inner tube or any other object that will suit the occasion.

If it is a girl, an example of a good theme is a cookie. The theme is based on the poem that tells how little girls are made which usually come from sugar and spice and everything nice. It is like have a tea party with lot of cookies around as well as cooking recipes and jars with various ingredients like chocolate chip and peanuts. The name of the girl can be highlighted in the form of a giant cookie.

What if the parents have not decided on the name of the baby yet? This too can be another good idea. The baby shower can help the parents decide on the baby's name. The place can be decorated with letters of the alphabet and games can be made to help people think of possible names.

Some parents don't want to know the gender of the baby until the baby comes out. Others keep the guests in suspense. Another idea for a party is only letting the people the sex of the baby at the party. An ultrasound can be brought in so everyone will be able to find out all together what the baby is.

Another way to have fun is to let the guests play a Girl or Boy Quiz. The questions are designed to determine the sex of the baby.

There are other ideas and themes to make the shower a memorable occasion. It just takes some planning and little imagination to make this baby shower stand out over others that people have gone to.

The host can do alone, plan it with other friends or get a professional to help out.

Baby Shower Graphics

2008-01-02T03:40:00.000-08:00

Uses:

1. Baby shower graphics can catch the attention of your guests.

2. Baby shower graphics can give a hint or a suggestion to your invitation, about what the affair is all about and the theme of the affair.

3. It is used in invitations to catch the reader抯 attention.

4. A baby shower graphic, without any wording, can provide a clear demonstration of the occasion.

5. It gives beauty, attraction and life to any invitation.

Your own printable baby shower invitations

1. Giving the invitation a design. Using a simple and easy to understand word processor such as the Microsoft Word, decide on and pick the right dimension for your invitation after which you can print out a test on a plain paper to make certain that the size is right.

2. Think of a theme, wherein all colors, designs and graphics will be based from it.

3. Look for and choose a card stock that appeal to your taste, so you can print on your invitations to it. Your local craft or office supply establishment have a variety of designs and they are very affordable too. Remember to choose a paper with not much color in it, as then it would compete with the colors that you may have on your graphic. A simple lightly colored textured paper is best.

4. Using a word processor, insert text boxes; in the text box, type in the wording that you want on your invitation. Here, you can have choices as to what font and color to use. Do keep in mind to keep it simple. Do not be overwhelmed by all the colors you see. At the most, you should only use three colors as too much of it can make your invitation look more of a mess then what it really is.

5. In the net, many sites offer and provide baby shower graphics for free which you can readily use in your invitation. By searching for 揻ree graphics?on any search engine the results will be plenty, and you will surely find a site offering free graphics. All you have to do is to look at the graphics, choose one, then download and insert them into your invitation; you can change its position, resize it and place it in a position and location that you desire.

6. If you plan to use the baby shower graphic as background, it should not block the wordings on the invitation. Preferably, images set on a background must be watermarked. Almost all word processors allow background images to be selected and chooses them as watermarks.

7. Need a catchy poem for your invitation? Do a search in the net once more for verses related to your invitation. For instance, you can search for "baby shower verse" and results are sure to come in.

8. It is important to save the original copy of your finished invitation and print it out. A sample on plain paper should first be printed in order to see what it looks like. If the results are good, you then can start printing and personalizing each invitation on a stock card.

9. If you have no printer, you can save your file on a disk and bring the disk to your nearest local print shop to have the disk printed out.

Baby Shower Gift Ideas

2007-12-31T19:01:00.000-08:00

Baby showers are thrown for the main purpose of bestowing well wishes and gifts upon a couple that is having their first child. Usually, gifts come in the form of baby items that the baby will need on its arrival.

With the popularity of baby gift registries today, looking for that perfect gift that the baby will need and the couple will truly appreciate has become easy. But for those will-be parents who did not sign up for a gift registry, or if you want to choose a baby gift on your own, this list of baby shower gift ideas may truly be helpful.

1. Disposable Diapers

Diapers may not be the most fancy gift to give for a baby shower. But this would definitely be the most thoughtful and most appreciated.

Diapers are expensive and babies will use them up very quickly. The new parents will appreciate them. Even those parents who opt to use cloth diapers may also find disposable diapers useful when traveling.

A tip when buying diapers, pick the larger size ones instead of newborn diapers. After all, babies nowadays grow very fast and the newborn-size diapers may not be useful for very long. And while you are at it, why not thrown in some baby wipes as well.

2. Bottles and Pacifiers

Babies may sometimes be picky on bottles and pacifiers. Some babies prefer to use only a particular brand or shape for these items.

If the parents-to-be have specified in the baby registry a brand or shape of bottles, nipples, and pacifiers, these items may be a safe choice for a baby shower gift. Otherwise, just steer clear from these baby items.

3. Baby Clothes

Choose larger sized baby clothes instead of the newborn sizes. Babies grow quickly.

If you could figure out, know the baby's gender and the season when the baby is due so you can pick clothes for the baby's gender, and just right for the season.

4. Toys for Baby

Give the gift of fun baby toys. You may buy toys for older babies that the baby can use when it grows a bit older. But just to be safe, stick to the toys for kids aged 3 and under.

5. Knowledge for Baby

Boost baby's brainpower with educational baby items. Choose a classic baby book, educational videos, music CDs.

For educational videos, Brainy Baby and Baby Einstein DVDs are highly recommended.

As for books, a selection of your own favorite books from childhood would be a great gift idea. Choose books with bright and bold pictures, and those new interactive boys that feature counting or touching.

6. Bath time Goodies

The baby will need to be always squeaky clean. A nice selection of baby bathroom essentials would be very thoughtful.

Pick up some cute baby puppets that may also double as scrubbing tools. Bubble bath with a soothing lavender scent will make bath time an entertaining experience for both the baby and parents.

A hooded towel and some sweet smelling baby cologne or lotion is also suitable bath time goodies gifts.

Baby shower gifts need not only be for the baby. It is also thoughtful to get the parents to be something.

Those are just some nice baby shower gift ideas of baby items to welcome the cute little bundle of joy into the family. But if all else fails, you may also consider getting the new parents gift checques so they can just purchase the items that they need but were not received at the baby shower.

Baby Shower Gift Ideas for Everyone

2007-12-30T04:41:00.000-08:00

There's not another occasion that calls for a celebration more than the ushering of a new child into the world. Children are truly a gift and a wonder! But children won't always be little kids forever.

One day their parents will wake up, and realize that their kids are bigger than they are. Pretty soon they willl go away and the house for good, to make their way into the world.

So this is all the more reason to celebrate children when they are still young and
still consider their parents their closest pals. But let's not get ahead of ourselves.

You see, even before these beautiful children arrive, mothers-to-be are treated to a festive occasion that celebrates the coming of her new baby. This celebration is called a baby shower, and what's a celebration without good food, some good time, and tons of presents?

This is where the guests come in. The guests are in charge of the gift-giving duties. Baby showers are a wonderful occasion for gift giving. It's always fun to shop for things that a newborn baby will need. Just think of yourself as a modern day fairy godmother/father without the wand. This way, you will surely have a good time choosing just the right baby gift. Maybe, you might even get generous and buy two gifts!

There are so many baby shower gift ideas that you can chose from, that you will have trouble choosing just one. Some of the more popular baby shower gift ideas are:

baby shower gift basket- This includes everything. A lot of items that a baby will need, such as: blankets, towels, bottles, toothing toys, soft toys, comb and brush sets, etc.

baby savings bond- This is such a meaningful gift, a bit on the extravagant side. But if you can afford it, this is a gift that mother and child will both appreciate. Also, this will go a long way in taking care of the child's financial needs.

baby gift registry- This is the easiest way to buy a baby shower gift. Just browse through the list of the owner, it should tell you exactly what the mother wants. This way, you would not have to wrack your brains trying to guess what kind of gift the mother-to-be wants.

diapers- This may not seem like much, but baby diapers are essential to babies!
They need an endless supply of diapers. They go through them so quickly. Even if you are presenting a gift, you might also want to bring along a pack of diapers.

baby toys- Baby toys are such a fun gift! Plus, you can't go wrong with baby toys. For newborn babies, less complicated toys are best such as: soft toys, baby rattles, books, etc. The more fancy toys are more suitable for toddlers. It is best to stick to the basic when buying toys for babies. Also, their safety must be considered. Stay away from toys that have pointed edges, are toxic, can be easily swallowed, etc.

gift certificates- These are a great gift to give, since gift certificates are very flexible. It allows the recipients to purchase things that they want, or things that they need, but didn't received as a present. Gift certificates should not only be limited to baby products. A mother-to-be will also appreciate receiving a gift certificate that attends to her needs.

There are so many baby shower gift ideas to choose from that you are sure to find something that the baby and mother will love.

Suggestions on How to Come Up with a Splendid Baby Shower Gift Idea

2007-12-28T21:11:00.000-08:00

Finding a baby shower gift is fun and easy! Baby showers are one of the best occasions for gift giving. But if you're one of those people who are completely clueless when it comes to babies, then this could be a difficult situation for you.

Here are some suggestions and tips on how to find a gift for those cute babies:

1. Just go to any mall and browse through the toy department section. You should be able to choose something that a baby will love. Remember that little babies are delicate creatures, so stay away from toys that might potentially harm them. Soft toys, baby books, baby apparels are some of the more ideal presents that are suitable for babies. If you find that you are still having trouble deciding on a purchase, ask a friendly salesperson to assist you.

2. Most pregnant women have a registry account that specifies the items that they need for their babies. This makes the process of gift giving so much easier for friends and family. This also takes out the guess work out of the equation. So if you're not one of those people are not crazy about surprises, you can always just check a mother-to-be's list to find out exactly what type of gift she wants.

3. Ask your friends who are parents to assist you in your time of need. Ask them to impart their wisdom onto you, and discuss the things that a baby might need.

4. Do an inventory with your other friends whom you know would also be giving baby gifts for this occasion. This way, you don't end up buying the same things.

5. If you feel that your inadequacy when it comes to selecting a baby shower gift is insurmountable , you can always just beg one of your friends who are more baby friendly to tag along with you. This way, you are saved the embarrassment of your severe indecision when it comes time to select the perfect giant rubber ducky.

6.You can just always buy baby clothes! If you consider yourself posh, and live for fashion, then this is your chance to shine! Who knows your style might even influence the future generation to come to carry on your fashion forward sensibilities!

7. Baby jewelry looks cute on babies! Baby bracelets, necklaces, earrings, cufflinks and tie bars for boys, are just dandy! Babies can't have enough cute things in their armory, so do your share and contribute to the storage!

8. Invest on their minds and buy tons of baby books. Who knows, you just might be the honorary aunt or uncle of a future Einstein! You can't go wrong with books. Education is truly a gift!

9. If you want to be loved, then bestow the gift of a baby saving's bond. This helps ensure a kid's future. This way when the baby grows up, you will always be remembered as the generous person that you are.

10. Baby shower gift baskets are reliable and practical gifts. They contain everything that a baby will need. Baby shower gift baskets have themes. Bath time baby baskets usually contain baby items like a set of comb and brushes, towels, grooming kits and the likes, and of course, the ever reliable rubber ducky.

It's not really that hard to come up with a baby shower gift idea. For those who are not enthusiastic about babies, and consider them little brats, well shame on you! Good thing this is your lucky day, so you can just pick a baby shower gift idea from one of the suggestions written above.

Your Baby Shower Gift Basket

2007-12-27T06:00:00.000-08:00

Personalized gifts

Personalizing a baby抯 gift is an excellent idea, making the gift distinct and special and grows into a cherished token through the years. When giving or making a gift sooner, before the baby抯 due, you are faced with a problem, that is, you are not yet certain of the name and the birth date. An option to consider is by giving a gift certificate for an etching or engraving design along with your gift. This way, when the wonderful day arrives, the parents can take your gift and have it personalized.

Choices for personalized gifts are baby cups, picture frame, jewelry or a cutlery set. There are wide selections of items that can be personalized; all you have to do is look.

A blanket for baby embroidered with the baby抯 name alongside the name抯 meaning would make an excellent gift for both mom and baby.

Your labor of love gift basket

Gift baskets are very popular today and indeed a wonderful idea which can either be purchased made-to-order or ready-made. Or, you can do it yourself by putting together all baby items that you like for the baby. Here抯 how you can make one:

1. Know first the size of the basket that you will use. A very large basket may be difficult to fill, so a medium sized is recommended. Usually, craft stores sell baskets of different sizes, shapes and colors. Shredded tissue paper and raffia make great fillers to be layered at the basket抯 bottom, alongside with baby towels and blankets.

2. If you do have a large basket, you can easily fill it up by choosing bigger items as well, such as crib comforters, stuffed bunny or teddy, pillows or crib bumpers.

3. Take into consideration the baby抯 gender, what really the baby needs. For a first baby, there will be many things that he will need. Having to look at a baby registry if the mom to be has one, can help a lot, since you will know what the baby really needs. If there is none, you could always ask the mom what else she needs for the baby.

4. Consider having a theme. You can load the basket with everything pink for a baby girl or everything blue for a baby boy, or everything having a 損ooh?or a dinosaur design. A bedtime theme basket filled with story books, music CD, blankets, pillows, pajama, musical crib mobile and a teddy bear can be a wonderful idea. Be creative and let your imagination soar.

5. Another way of being creative is instead of using a basket, a baby tub, a diaper bag, a small laundry basket or a trunk can also be used.

6. For a tub, you can fill it with baby bathing accessories, such as soaps, towels, bubble bath, powder, baby shampoo, lotion and bath rubber toys.

7. For the trunk, you can fill it with baby抯 keepsake book, monogrammed items, receiving blankets, heirloom items, a picture frame and an inspirational book all about mom and baby. You can also place a little inspirational note containing all your wishes for the baby. This will add a more personal touch to your gift.

8. For the laundry basket, you can fill it with cute slippers, diapers, baby comb and brush, booties, and baby clothes.

Baby Shower Gift Baskets are the Most Practical Gifts

2007-12-26T06:39:00.001-08:00

So you've been invited to your friend's baby shower. You've circled the date on your calendar. You know that it's approaching. All of your other friends have purchased their presents weeks in advanced, but you, the only single left in the bunch, still can't decide on what present to bring to your friend's baby shower.

Let's face it, you know nothing about babies. Your presence make babies cry! You can't tell a blanket from a diaper! This is your first time ever to attend one of these so called events. You know you suck at this, and everyone knows it too, but still you have to go, It's a test of friendship! So what do you do?

Well, for starters you wipe that frown off of your face, and you put on your "I'm happy to be an auntie smile!'. Then, you go to a shopping mall, and you grab yourself a baby shower gift basket!

Gift baskets contain everything from soft toys, hats, blankets, undergarments, changing pads, sleeping gowns, teething toy, bears, etc.

The great thing about gift baskets is that they are very useful. The people who put together baby shower gift baskets know what they are doing! The things that are included in a baby shower gift basket are exactly the things that a new mother, and an upcoming baby will need.

So you know you'd be getting your money's worth when you purchase a baby shower gift basket. More importantly, it will make the recipient happy. New mothers need all the help that they could get, especially once the have delivered their babies. The daily expenses of a family always escalates with the addition of a new member. So it is best to give presents that will help to provide for the needs of the new mother, and baby.

Baby shower gift baskets come in different themes. Some of these baskets concentrate on the baby's bath time needs. Items like: towels, washcloths, comb and brush sets; and of course, the quintessential giant rubber duckies are included.

This puts variety, and a fun twist on the baby shower gift basket idea! So you'd actually have quite a selection to choose from.

These baby shower gift baskets vary in prices, depending on the intricacy of the lay out, and items included in the basket. The average price for a baby shower gift basket is around $70.

These baskets are usually divided into girl themes, and boy themes. The girl- themed baskets usually come in pink, and contain items suitable for a baby girl. While the boy-themed gift baskets offer things that a baby boy will need.

These baby shower gift baskets can also be purchased online. So if you don't have any time to shop, you can just always order a gift basket online. The selection of these gift baskets are usually displayed online. Also, the items that are included inside is listed along side the picture of the gift basket.

They come in a nicely gift wrapped packaging that includes a ribbon and a card. This allows you to write a personal greeting, and a dedication to the mother. Don't forget to include well wishes for the baby!

If you've purchased your gift basket online, you can just type in your dedication on the net. This way, your dedication will be included in the gift basket that you've ordered. It will then be delivered to the specified recipient.

Baby shower gift baskets are a wonderful and thoughtful gift idea because they include a little bit of everything. They are also very meaningful because they provide things that will provide for the needs of a newborn baby.

So become a baby shower superstar, and bring a baby shower gift basket to the party. All your friends will be in awe of you!

Unique baby shower gifts - exceptional gifts for the baby shower party

2007-12-24T20:50:00.000-08:00

Unique baby shower gifts add a special touch to the baby shower party. Unique baby shower gifts can be fun and creative or personal and memorable. As long as they are from the heart, unique baby shower gifts become keepsakes that families will treasure for a lifetime.

Baby showers are meant to celebrate the impending arrival of the newborn baby into the family. The baby shower party is an exciting and fun-filled event for moms and dads that are anticipating the birth of their beloved baby. Presenting them with unique baby shower gifts will certainly help make the party extra special.

Ideas for unique baby shower gifts

Unique baby shower gifts need not be expensive. Unique baby shower gifts can be something useful that can be used once the baby is born or a lavish gift for either the parents or the baby. Expecting parents take pleasure in receiving unique baby shower gifts from family and friends during the baby shower party.

These exceptional gifts mean that they took the time to find a really special gift for them. However, unique baby shower gifts are no longer just for the coming baby or for the mom-to-be. There are a wide variety of unique baby shower gifts for moms after giving birth, for dads and even for the excited grandparents.

Assortment of unique baby shower gifts

Unique baby shower gifts that are great for babies are personalized baby items. Items like baby bibs, baby blankets or burp cloths are lovingly appliqu嶮 and personalized with a monogram of the baby's initials. These specially made pieces make great keepsakes that the family can cherish for a lifetime.

Custom made jewelry is another example of a unique baby shower gift that the baby can hang on to until he or she grows old. Jewelry like necklaces with pendants and bracelets can be personalized with the baby's name engraved on it.

There are also unique baby shower gifts for the proud parents. New parents will love to receive a custom built stroller bag or diaper bag to use when going out with baby. Plus new parents get a kick out of wearing fun t-shirts that sport amusing sayings poking fun at the new mother and father.

Another popular idea for unique baby shower gifts is baby gift baskets. There are different arrangements available for the baby gift baskets. Baby gift baskets often follow a theme and are designed specifically for either the baby, the mom and even the dad.

Gift baskets for mom can either be filled with maternity clothes or remedies for morning sickness. Unique baby shower gifts for dads can also be packed in a distinctive gift basket. The gift basket for dads can be designed as a survival gift basket like a daddy diaper tool kit.

Where to find unique baby shower gifts

Many online shopping sites offer a wide variety of unique baby shower gifts at reasonable prices. At the same time, many artists that specialize in creating unique baby shower gifts often sell their products online. Unique baby shower gifts can also be a personal creation of the gift giver for a more personal touch.

The search for unique baby shower gifts is a labor of love. Some may give up and concede to buying a mundane gift for the party. But for those who really want to give the best, unique baby shower gifts are the only way to go.

Baby shower gift ideas

2007-12-24T07:10:00.000-08:00

An expecting mom could be the happiest person in the world should she give birth to a little angel. And in anticipation of the new baby, baby showers are commonly held about three months before the baby is born. It is possible to hold it after the baby is born. It has advantages in doing that plus it would be little easier selecting gifts if it were held after. A higher percentage though holds it before the baby's birth.
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Shopping for baby shower gifts and items could be very fun. You can give anything for the baby, from baby consumables to playthings. Choosing the best gift can be trick. To assists you in picking, you can check out these suggestions:
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Buy something that the baby will use frequently. You can buy baby ointments, baby lotions, diapers, wipes, baby power, and other stuff, and place them all in a basket or any appropriate container. All babies use diapers, and no mom can live without it now a days. Most moms usually think this as a practical gift because if they get enough of it from guests, they need not purchase diapers for the baby until after a few months. That's big convenience and big savings for them. Running out of diapers during the night could be a nightmare. You can also add some medicines and vitamins for the baby. This could come in handy in times of need.

Buy something fun for the baby. You can buy toys. Good toys are those that move and produce sounds. Buy something that can be mounted on the crib. Suggestions can be baby tape player, vibrator seats, swings, bouncy seats, high chairs, or walkers. The list is endless. These toys also enhance a baby's mind development through color, object, and sound recognition.?
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Buy some cute clothes. Although this could be risky since you don't know the gender the baby will be, or its weight upon birth. Try to buy rompers and shirts in medium sizes. This way you can be sure the baby can wear what you bought at least a few times. Don't buy clothes that need ironing because that's added task for moms and you wouldn't want that, of course.
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Buy something useful for mommy. Gifts assisting moms caring for the baby is such a good idea. You can buy a baby carrier or slinger. It is very helpful for moms to get some cooking or cleaning done while carrying the baby. A helpful device you can buy is a diaper genie to help keep the smell down from used diapers.
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Buy something for moms too. True, baby showers are for the babies. But moms, with all the excitement that they feel towards giving birth, can be apprehensive about the idea too. You can give gift certificates to moms from a shop or mall. You can give moms books or magazines about parenting. You can give them coupons from a Laundromat or a professional house cleaner. You can prepare for them a dinner for one night and send it over. Or better yet, give delivery stubs from pizza parlors so in the event dinner can't be cooked, food can be driven over.

Baby showers are held to welcome the baby to the world. Sometimes, baby showers are held only for the first-born. It would be nice to have a shower for each of your new born child so that the baby would feel well received and wanted even from the mommy's womb. Babies are cute little blessings families are given with. Let's greet them even before they come out and join us!

An expecting mom could be the happiest person in the world should she give birth to a little angel. And in anticipation of the new baby, baby showers are commonly held about three months before the baby is born. It is possible to hold it after the baby is born. It has advantages in doing that plus it would be little easier selecting gifts if it were held after. A higher percentage though holds it before the baby's birth.

Shopping for baby shower gifts and items could be very fun. You can give anything for the baby, from baby consumables to playthings. Choosing the best gift can be trick. To assists you in picking, you can check out these suggestions:

Buy something that the baby will use frequently. You can buy baby ointments, baby lotions, diapers, wipes, baby power, and other stuff, and place them all in a basket or any appropriate container. All babies use diapers, and no mom can live without it now a days. Most moms usually think this as a practical gift because if they get enough of it from guests, they need not purchase diapers for the baby until after a few months. That's big convenience and big savings for them. Running out of diapers during the night could be a nightmare. You can also add some medicines and vitamins for the baby. This could come in handy in times of need.

Buy something fun for the baby. You can buy toys. Good toys are those that move and produce sounds. Buy something that can be mounted on the crib. Suggestions can be baby tape player, vibrator seats, swings, bouncy seats, high chairs, or walkers. The list is endless. These toys also enhance a baby's mind development through color, object, and sound recognition.

Buy some cute clothes. Although this could be risky since you don't know the gender the baby will be, or its weight upon birth. Try to buy rompers and shirts in medium sizes. This way you can be sure the baby can wear what you bought at least a few times. Don't buy clothes that need ironing because that's added task for moms and you wouldn't want that, of course.

Buy something useful for mommy. Gifts assisting moms caring for the baby is such a good idea. You can buy a baby carrier or slinger. It is very helpful for moms to get some cooking or cleaning done while carrying the baby. A helpful device you can buy is a diaper genie to help keep the smell down from used diapers.

Buy something for moms too. True, baby showers are for the babies. But moms, with all the excitement that they feel towards giving birth, can be apprehensive about the idea too. You can give gift certificates to moms from a shop or mall. You can give moms books or magazines about parenting. You can give them coupons from a Laundromat or a professional house cleaner. You can prepare for them a dinner for one night and send it over. Or better yet, give delivery stubs from pizza parlors so in the event dinner can't be cooked, food can be driven over.

Baby showers are held to welcome the baby to the world. Sometimes, baby showers are held only for the first-born. It would be nice to have a shower for each of your new born child so that the baby would feel well received and wanted even from the mommy's womb. Babies are cute little blessings families are given with. Let's greet them even before they come out and join us!

Baby Shower Games

2007-12-23T01:59:00.001-08:00

Spice up your baby shower festivities with some baby game fun! A few games can make sure the baby shower celebration you throw for your baby is fun and exciting. It could add a little zip to any gathering and helps the people attending get acquainted and feel at ease amongst each other.

The Name Game
Have your guests choose two names for the baby. Now, ask them to write these names on a piece of paper. Ask them to find words that can be made from those names. The object of the game is to make as many words from these names as possible. Give the guests a certain amount of time, as much as may be needed.

Tell the guests that the minimum number of letters for each constructed word should be three. Words that are made of two or less words will not be counted.

Also, ask the guests not to tell the names they have chosen outright, as a twist to the game can be made by having the guests try to guess the original names the players have chosen using the constructed words used.

Example: Michael - Anthony
Ant ?hint ?mint ?minty - lint

Feeding Time!
Put a number of cotton balls in a big bowl, and place another empty bowl in front of it. Players will try to transfer the cotton balls from one bowl to the other while blindfolded. Players will go at this game one at a time. Have them use spoons to do so. Since cotton balls are so light, it will actually be really hard to gauge how many ball you are scooping with the spoons. The winner of the game is the player that able to transfer the most number of cotton balls per thirty seconds.

Rice Bowl
Fill a bowl half-way with plain, uncooked rice. Then mix in some safety pins (the safety pins have to be closed first). Have the guests take turns one at a time at this game. Blindfold the players and set them right in front of the bowls. The object of the game is to transfer as many safety pins to a different bowl in 30 seconds. This is a bit hard too, since the safety pins feel a lot like the rice too.

Baby Guests
Have guests bring along baby pictures of themselves to the baby shower celebrations. As the guests enter the celebration area, have them give these photos to a secretary who will label them with removable tape at the back and note on a different sheet of paper the identity of the photo. Be very careful with these photos as they are very important keepsakes.

Then furnish the guests with a piece of paper and a pen and show the baby pictures to everyone one by one. Have the guests try to guess the identity of the photo and write it down on their answer sheets. Afterwards, reveal the answers to the quiz. The person to get the most number of correct guesses wins the game.

Baby Shower Games
These games are only a few of the dozens of games you could play during the baby shower celebrations. Make sure these games foster friendships and, of course, put your baby in the spotlight. This will surely make your baby shower a lot more interesting and memorable.

Great Ideas for Baby Shower Invitations

2007-12-22T02:47:00.000-08:00

A pregnant woman, whether it is her first or third time to have a baby, would have a lot on her mind as she nears the date when she is about to give birth. Aside from the physical pains and emotional stress of her upcoming labor, she should have something else to think about. Throwing a baby shower is a great way to lighten her load.

Baby showers are often planned by the mother-to-be's closest friend or any member of the family. Ideally, they are held anytime within the last 3 months of pregnancy. However, it still depends on the most convenient time for everybody, including the guests and family members. Some even hold baby showers after birth, which is an ideal time for the new member of the family to be introduced to the world.

A great way to start planning a baby shower is by preparing the invitations. These invitations can be hand-made, printed, even ordered online, depending on the person in charge of planning for the affair. Of course, mom-to-be's would like to be involved in choosing the perfect theme for the baby shower, be it for a girl or a boy. Here are some great ideas to create baby shower invites to prepare for that oh-so-fun baby shower:

Create you own invitations. First, think of a theme for the party. Do you want to have a Disney-inspired baby shower? Or you might want to have an animal theme. Whatever motif you decide on, make sure that the invitations that you will send out will reflect the main theme. One specific idea is to attach the printed invitations to pacifiers or tie then with a ribbon and put them inside feeding bottles or powder puff canisters. Place them inside any baby accessory that you think will be useful. They can be in pink or blue, or both, if you do not know the baby's gender yet. These items can even be brought to the party by the guest for the mother to use after she gives birth.

2-in-1 invitation ala give-away. You can print out the details of when and where the baby shower will be held and put them in mini-picture frames. These would make great invitations, and can be kept as after-party souvenirs. Make sure that the frames reflect the theme of the party as well.

Personalize your invites. A baby shower is not just a tribute to the boy or girl who is about to be born, but it also celebrates the joys and sacrifices of the mom-to-be. She is the one who deserves to have a break for taking care of the baby in her womb for the past months. You can think of ways to show the mother personality on the invitations that you will give out. One web site offers unique baby shower invitations, with names like olka Dot Mama? ip Mama?and ummy Love? You can also use the mom work, for example, as a party theme. If the mom-to-be dabbles in writing, you can use children books as invites, just stick a huge bookmark in it, where the details of the baby shower will be printed. For a mother who is a chef, or who just plain loves to cook, you can create mini-chef hats which can be made of cloth, paper or felt and just stick the invite in front.

Order the invitations online. If you are in a hurry and do not have the time to make the invitations yourself, you can order them online. There are a lot of web sites where you can view samples of baby shower invites. If you have not thought of a theme yet, you can also get great ideas from these web sites. You can even download ready-made invitations, just change the wordings and print out copies in specialized paper, then, voila, you now have your own personalized baby shower invites.

There are hundreds of possibilities on how to create your special baby shower invitations. Just let your imagination run wild and you will surely come up with the perfect theme for that baby shower that is bound to be fun for everybody.

Choosing the Baby Shower Games

2007-12-21T05:33:00.000-08:00

To make a baby shower more entertaining to the guests, you can prepare small games that can be participated by some volunteers or all of the guests. This can be done as icebreakers or during the time when the mother is opening the presents.

After somebody has won a game, you can prepare small tokens as their prize. These tokens need not be expensive; it can be chocolate bar, candle or anything to remind the winner of his or her successful participation in the game.

When choosing a baby shower game, make sure that you have selected something that will appeal to your guests. Research on the guests' backgrounds and ages since these are factors in which you can judge if they will enjoy the baby shower game or not.

As much as possible, choose a game that will require interaction among the guests, especially if you the guest list includes family members, and different groups of friends who may not know one another.

After you have considered the people who are on the guest list, you may want to consider the baby shower games listed below.

* Mommies and Babies Game

This game is better if participated by the younger guests. The host will read a list of animals to which the participants will call out the names of the babies of the animals.

To make the game more entertaining, you can pictures of the animals that are in a pile. The participants can choose the correct picture, say the name of the mother and baby animal and mimic the sound of the animal.

* Mother Goose Game

You can have this baby shower game played by all of the guests. Prepare several lines from different nursery rhymes. The host will read these lines to the guests but with an omitted word. The guests will try to guess what is the missing word in the nursery rhyme. The person who has called out the most correct answer wins.

* Baby Item Memory Game

Prepare a tray of baby things that you will show to the guests for 15 to 30 seconds. After that, ask the guests to write the items that they remember. The person who has remembered the most items will win this baby shower game.

* Baby Food Game

Prepare for this baby shower game by purchasing several types of baby food and removing the labels and replacing the covers with opaque paper. Number the jars for reference.

Ask the guests to identify the baby food by smelling or tasting. The person who has made the most correct guesses wins the baby shower game.

* Fun Facts

This is to done only if the guests know, or are at least familiar with one another.

Upon arriving at the baby shower party, ask the guests to write a fact that few people have known. This may be a hidden talent, a previous job, or a movie appearance. They drop the paper in a jar together with everyone else's papers.

During the game, they will pick one sheet of paper and try to guess who is the person being described.

You can also modify the game by having the host read each of the facts and have all of the guests try to guess the person.

With these baby shower games, you can make your guests interact with one another and you can keep them from being bored. You can make original games as long as you consider the backgrounds, the number and the ages of your participants.

Versatile Invitation Design: Baby Shower Footprint

2007-12-20T00:40:00.001-08:00

A baby's footprint says everything: the innocence, tenderness and charm of a newborn. These values come to mind of anyone who sees it. No wonder it is a favorite theme for occasions that call for such, like that of a baby shower. Here is a guide on how to use the baby footprint in the baby shower invitation.

Printed

The first way of using the footprint is to print them on the invitation. You may use a single or both feet as the main design. Immediately, your guests will know that it is a baby shower invitation, just by seeing the footprints. Make the print standout by using a complementary color to the background or the paper color.

As a supplementary to the text of the card, baby footprints can serve as a silhouette background of the text. As a silhouette, footprints are effective as outlines, instead of filled with colors. As an outline, only the marks where the baby feet press the ground (balls of the toes and heel and sides of the feet) are highlighted.

For an animated effect use several small footprints in the main design or silhouette background. To make it appear like a baby just walked across the page, reduce the size of the footprints, as the trail moves from the fore to the rear ground.

Embossed

Embossing is a process of creating relief on the paper by using a special tool to engrave the paper. Since this uses a special tool, it is best to leave the manufacturing of this kind of invitation to the professionals.

Embossed footprint invitations convey an elegant mood for the baby shower. Most embossed invitations are monochromatic, that is, they use a single color for the paper and the embossed design. However, some printers have the capability to color the raised portions of the footprint, for an extra fee.

Design and layout can be similar to the printed kind, but it is best to use the footprint sparingly for a dramatic effect.

Stamped

Rubber stamps have been around for ages, and it is widely used in many applications: business, trade, craft and even politics! As the rubber stamp craft is a well-established industry, you can find rubber stamps of baby footprints, of varying sizes and designs. When you have chosen a pattern that suits your intended invitation design, you can then use it to stamp single prints or multiple prints inked in a variety of colors.

For a subdued effect, use the stamp as a seal of approval or a signature of the baby, inviting the guest to the baby shower.

At the party, use the stamps to continue the theme from the invitation. Stamp them on napkins, thank you cards and game prizes for a unified effect.

Cutout

Lastly, use the footprint design as a cutout baby shower invitation. This is a very interesting application as it veers away from the conventional 2?X 4?invitation size. Use the front of the card to announce that there is a baby shower, and the back, for party details and RSVP information.

Carry the cutout theme to your baby shower by placing baby footprint cutouts on pathways, floors and even walls.

Use also footprint cutouts for thank you cards, for a uniformed look.

With such a simple idea, there are many possibilities. Choose the style to fit your mood and use cute baby shower footprint invitation cards today!

BABY SHOWER FOOD: WHAT TO SERVE AND HOW TO SERVE THEM

2007-12-19T03:37:00.000-08:00

A baby shower is a traditional way of celebrating the coming (or the birth) of a new baby and welcoming him or her as a new member of the family. They can be hosted and organized by anybody, usually the close friends/group of friends or relatives of the expectant parents. It was once considered improper for family members to host baby showers (because they usually center on the gift giving), but nowadays it is fine for family members to help (and plan) them.

Baby showers are usually held a month or two before the mother's expected due date (some cultures, however, consider it bad luck to hold baby showers before the baby is born). They are intended not only to welcome the baby but also to help the expectant parents by giving them gifts that they will need for the baby.

Planning for a baby shower can be an enormous task. Everything requires a great deal of planning - from the guest list, to handing out invitations, to the decorations, to the games, to baby shower favors - and, most especially, to the food.

Every party cannot be without food, as they are considered as one of the best parts or the highlight of a party. This applies to baby showers as well.

There are numerous types of food that you can serve during baby showers. Some of them are the following:

Bread or sandwiches

Dessert (cakes, cookies, ice cream, etc.)

Chips or fries

Pasta

Pies (pizzas, etc.)

Salad

Drinks (punch, juice, wine, etc.)

Below is a list of several tips and guidelines on food ideas that will surely delight your guests and the parents-to-be:

1. The baby shower food that you serve will largely depend on the time of day when it will be held. A baby shower that will be held at noon or at dinnertime usually requires a full 'sit-down' meal, while early afternoon or early evening showers can do with appetizers, salads, and finger foods. In addition, the amount of food that you need to prepare will depend on the number of guests you will be inviting.

2. Have multiple snack trays for serving different varieties of food - you can have one with an assortment of finger sandwiches, another with sliced turkey or smoked chicken, and still another with sliced fresh vegetables served with a dip that you can place in the center of the tray.

3. Try to match your food and keep them in-line with the baby shower's theme (if ever there is any). You may consider serving scones and finger sandwiches if your baby shower theme is a tea party. Or, if you are having a nursery rhyme-themed baby shower, cakes and pies that resemble the characters from famous nursery rhyme (such as Humpty Dumpty deviled eggs).

4. Put some 'life' in the baby shower foods that you will serve. Instead of serving your fruit salad in a simple salad bowl, try presenting them in a melon bowl (or better yet, in a baby carriage-shaped melon server).

5. Decorate your food table by tossing baby pacifier candies, chocolate bars, and confetti all over it.

6. Personalize your eating utensils. Match their colors with the color scheme of the entire party. Consider using disposable cups or plates for easy clean up.

7. It is important to take into account the special diet of the mom-to-be, so try to avoid serving food that the pregnant mom herself would not eat. In addition to her allergies and food aversions, avoid the types of food that are prone to contamination and food poisoning, such as soft cheeses, uncooked meat and (most especially) alcohol.

By following these food tips, you will surely be able to pull off a successful (and memorable) baby shower.

Tips on Choosing the Right Baby Shower Favors

2007-12-17T05:05:00.000-08:00

Having a baby is such an exciting part of the married couple life. Enjoying a baby shower is twice the fun because the parents-to-be get to share the excitement and happiness that they feel with their friends and relatives.

A baby shower is actually a type of party that the couple friends or relatives had prepared. Because it is a party, it entails the gifts, food, and of course the party favors that are usually present in any other party or celebration.

Like any other party, choosing the right baby shower favor can be very tedious especially if it aims to make the event memorable. There are so many baby shower favors that choosing the best can be pretty confusing.

So, for people who wish to know how to choose the right baby shower favor, here are some pointers that can be very handy.

1. Always consider the personality of the mother-to-be when choosing a baby shower favor.

Even if the friends or the relatives are the ones who prepared the invitation, it is still a must to consider the personality of the mother-to-be when choosing baby shower favors.

After all, you would not want to create misunderstanding or misconceptions just because you have chosen baby shower favors that do not fit to the personality of the mother, right?

2. Shop around

It always pays to shop around before deciding on something. This will give you enough time to contemplate and compare which baby shower favor is suitable for the occasion.

Best of all, you get to choose the most affordable, most attractive, and most appropriate baby shower favors available in the market.

3. Use a lot of resources when looking for the best baby shower favors.

Today, there are many available resources where you can find great ideas on baby shower favors.

In print, you can find some great ideas in the magazines and books about baby showers. You can also find some useful ideas in the Internet.

What matters most is that you have plenty of resources where you can get the best baby shower favors for the guests.

4. Ask the other people about some of the ideas used on baby shower favors.

There are people who have already attended baby shower parties, so, their opinions can be a lot of help. You can ask them what kinds of party favors are usually being used in the baby showers or what would they prefer to have on their own baby showers.

5. Consider the baby shower favors that are already tried and tested by a lot of baby shower parties.

These kinds of baby shower favors will be a sure hit even if the personality of the expectant mother had not been considered. This is because for so many events, these kinds of party favors had been appreciated but most people, and the people who will attend on the baby shower will appreciate it, too.

Indeed, baby shower favors can be really tedious but with careful planning and considerations, the baby shower event will turn out to be very memorable because of the favors that the guests have received.

Nothing comes close to ending this wonderful event than to have baby shower favors that would reflect the merrymaking of the delight and joy of all the people who came to celebrate the upcoming arrival of the new baby.

Baby Shower Etiquette

2007-12-15T20:29:00.000-08:00

Baby showers have been very popular and are one tradition that almost all mothers-to-be from almost all countries practice. Since baby shower is not only gift giving but also a social event. It is for this reason that some etiquette should be observed. These etiquettes may vary depending on your country but the following is the most common ones.

1. The best time to hold a baby shower is sometime before the birth. Usually, baby showers are held a month or two before the birth of the baby. Recently, some people practice holding the baby shower a month or two after the birth. Holding the party before the birth of the bay will give time for the mother to buy the items that were not given as gifts during the baby shower.

2. Traditionally, a close friend of the new mom hosts the baby party. Relatives and co-workers can also host the event.

3. Baby showers are not only for first-born babies but also for subsequent babies. Every pregnancy is a reason to celebrate, so there is nothing wrong to throw a baby shower to subsequent babies.

4. It is just proper to give gifts that are related to babies. Neutral colors can be picked for gifts so that it will relate to either a boy or girl. It is best to choose gifts that can be useful and something that a baby may need everyday like diapers, feeding bottles, bibs and baby blankets.

5. For the host, it is okay to have games to break the ice but it is not that required. Conversations, food and drinks are the thing that should be considered. It would also be a nice idea to have a book where the guests can write on their notes and messages to the new mom.

6. Usually, twenty people or more are invited but this will also depend on the number of people that can be accommodated in the venue. Sometimes, they hold a small number before the birth and larger group after the baby is born.

7. A baby shower is usually held during weekend since that is the most convenient day for the visitors and would normally last two to three hours. The time may be extended especially if everything is doing well.

8. The person hosting should shoulder the expenses on food and other things.

9. Ideally, the baby shower is held at the home of the person hosting the party. The new mom would be informed since a pregnant woman is not fit for surprises.

10. It is not necessary to have a special invitation printed. The host can buy stationeries or greeting cards with baby themes in bookstores. It will also be a good idea to have the invitations sent at least three weeks before the party. This will give enough time for guests to RSVP. Do not forget to include the directions.

11. A theme for the party is not that necessary but this adds life to a party. Wearing costumes and decorating the venue gives a happy and celebrating atmosphere.

12. It is only proper to welcome guests when they come and thank them when they leave. The host should always be present during the party and should be the one attending at the guests.

The magic of baby shower clip art

2007-12-15T04:47:00.000-08:00

Having a baby shower soon and planning to make you own invitation, decorations or party favors? Then baby shower clip art is for you. Putting baby shower clip art is the easiest and most affordable way to make your invitations, announcements and even party favors more interesting. They can help you design the perfect card, poster, flyer for the up and coming baby shower. And the best part about using baby shower clip art is that you don need to be an artist to use them. Aside from invitations and favors, you could also use baby shower clipart to create baby shower keepsakes and scrap booking accents for you, your family and your friends

There are many types of baby shower clip art. The range goes from the outrageously funny, irresistibly cute to the heartwarmingly sentimental. Of course on top of the list are drawings of babies in various positions. You have babies alone, babies with bottles, babies with teddy bears, babies with blankets or babies tucked in a cradle. You will find baby clip art pictures of babies with diapers, babies with no diapers, babies with a brother or sister, babies with a cute animal or pet, etc.

Everyone find babies cute, cuddly and adorable and everyone simply loves looking at baby pictures. Putting baby shower clip art in your wedding invitation or flyer is a wise decision since it will definitely attract attention.

Another good thing about baby shower clipart is hat it is very easy to find. And usually you can get them free of charge. And even if you have to pay a fee, it is often very affordable. And the money you shell out will definitely be worth it since baby shower clipart have hundreds if not thousand of uses.

The Internet is a treasure throve of baby shower clipart ready for you to download. There are literally thousands of available baby shower clipart on the world wide web. You wouldn have a hard time looking for them.
And whatever baby shower you are planning to do, for sure there is a baby shower clipart that is appropriate for it. That because there is a very wide category of baby shower clipart which contains different styles and designs that are perfect for any baby shower needs. And it doesn matter if the baby is a boy or a girl. For sure there is a baby shower clipart made for specifically for each gender and there are many that are made for both.

The only real rule that you need to remember when using baby shower clipart is to use a single theme all throughout your project. For example, your invitation and thank you notes should match so you must use the same style or design of baby shower clipart when making both.

Another rule is not to clutter your project with too many different baby shower clipart. Doing so would only make your project look messy. You must also pay attention to things like color, size and format of the baby shower clipart.

You must also learn how to experiment with sizes, colors and themes. Put some clipart together and see what works for you. All you need is a little practice and patience and youl soon be creating your baby shower masterpiece.

Save money by using baby shower clipart. You need not spend a fortune on baby shower invitation and favors. All you need is your creativity and some baby shower clipart and youe ready to make the most memorable baby shower.

Baby shower decorations - set the scene for baby shower parties

2007-12-14T19:12:00.000-08:00

Baby shower decorations make the perfect background for a baby shower party. Depending on the time and budget of the baby shower party, there are numerous ideas for baby shower decorations available. The host of the baby shower party can get dozens of ideas for baby shower decorations that will certainly liven up the gathering.

Baby shower decorations can be as simple or as elaborate as the host wishes. Baby shower decorations help make every baby shower party extra special for the mom-to-be. There are a number of ways to decorate a baby shower party. The possibilities for baby shower decorations are endless.

Setting up baby shower decorations

When setting up baby shower decorations, the first thing to consider is the theme of the baby shower party. The theme of the baby shower party will have a bearing on the type of baby shower decorations needed to liven up the party area. The baby shower party may have a traditional theme wherein baby shower decorations would include silver and china.

However more and more baby shower parties are adopting modern themes that make use of popular cartoon characters. The baby shower decorations for this type of baby shower party are centered on the specific character used as theme. Many stores that specialize in baby shower decorations have a wide assortment of designs for baby shower decorations.

Ideas for baby shower decorations

Baby shower decorations need not be big and expensive. Imagination and creativity play a big part in the selection and arrangement of baby shower decorations. With a little ingenuity, putting together a baby shower party need not break the bank.

When setting up the area of the baby shower party, it is often best to stick to simple baby shower decorations that will not make the place look too gaudy. Seasonal flowers and a number of party toys for baby shower decorations make for a simple yet cozy gathering for a baby shower party among family and friends.

For a more elaborate baby shower party, baby shower decorations will include a lot more than flowers and a few toys. But fortunately most of these items can be re-used for other occasions like a child's birthday party. Or the host may give the baby shower decorations to the couple after the party as souvenirs or toys for the new baby.

Inexpensive baby shower decorations

Balloons are a great way to perk up the scene of any party. Colorful balloons can be arranged together to create a focal point at the tables of the baby shower party. In addition, to prevent the balloons from flying off, small baby items like baby bottles or soft plush toys can be tied at the end of the string.

Everyday, ordinary baby items also make great baby shower decorations. A baby bath tub can be used as a punch bowl during the baby shower party. The tub may also be used as a receptacle to hold the different gifts given by guests for the mom-to-be. The tub may be decorated with ribbons and balloons to coincide with the theme of the party.

Umbrellas also make for interesting baby shower decorations. These may be hung upside down from the ceiling with colorful streamers tied to the ends of the umbrellas.

Baby shower decorations can be created from simple items. Resourcefulness is the key to creating wonderful baby shower decorations that don't cost much.

Baby Shower Invitations

2007-12-14T05:25:00.001-08:00

A baby shower is one of the special events in the life of a mother to be shared with friends before the actual birth. Invitations should set the mood and make this occasion memorable to everyone present.

This baby shower usually happens a month or 2 in advance and making the right invitation can be just as challenging as planning the entire event.

One can get an invitation that has been made by a card company but for it to be special, it is best to choose a design then have it custom made. Since the host is usually a very close friend of the mother, that person can talk to the mother and other members of the family what kind of theme will be appropriate for the party.

After getting all the ideas in and finally choosing what theme will be used, the friend will already have an idea what kind of invitation it is and how it will look like.

For a girl, the theme could be a star which could highlight the future. An invitation can be shaped into a star with the nursery rhyme song inside.

For a boy, the theme could be a cowboy. An invitation can be made with the design of a cartoon character in the front and other special details inside.

An invitation can also be made depending on the season. In the summer, with the weather being a bit humid, the ideal theme will be a summer shower that comes with a lot of ice cream. The invitation can be made in the shape of an ice cream.

Just like any other invitation, it should have the name of the person to be invited, when and where the event will take place, the contact number of the one hosting the event and the gender of the baby if this is applicable.

The invitations must be given out a month up to a month and half prior to the event itself. This will give people time to make plans for that day and pick the right gift.

Babies are cute, smell good, can be quiet and the noisiest at certain times. It is all part of the phase of the baby growing up. There are other ideas and themes one can think of to make the invitation a good preview of what is to come during the baby shower itself. It just takes some planning and little imagination to make this baby shower stand out over others that people have gone to.

The host can do the planning alone or brainstorm with friends in picking the right invitation then having it made by the printers. When that is finished, the other details after that should already quite easy such as the food for the occasion, the registry of gifts for the party, and the prizes for the games to be played.

If the person needs help, then a professional can be called to assist in the entire process. With the many themes and invitations that have been done in the past, this usually comes in a package that includes a planner to help guide the person along. The host can find this people in the neighborhood or check online.

By comparing the packages and prices of the various companies that do this, one will surely get value for money for this special event.

Baby Shower Clip Art

2007-12-13T05:53:00.001-08:00

Hundreds of baby shower clip art drawings are widely available, with just one click to the Internet. Primarily, you should know what type of clip art you are looking for. As in this case, when making a baby shower thank you card or invitation, the clip art that is needed is a baby shower clipart, so this is the type that you should look for in the net.

Clip art is all about copying and pasting the pre-existing drawings or images available in the net. These are illustrations that are already for the most part, found in certain books having already entered into the public site for that actual purpose.

There are limitless logos, mascots, invitations, identity and business cards and letterheads that are freely available. Moreover, there are no license term hassles. The electronic clip art that is available on the net is an extension of such a concept.

In clipart, all images are converted into digital form drawings on a low resolution being used for decorating and enhancing E-greetings and Invitations.

Clipart, are intended for defining and outlining digitized illustrations and drawings, not photography. There are various files that come in many sizes, shapes and formats. Some of the prevalent formats are TIFF, PICT, Paint, GIF, EPS and JPEG. When in doubt what format to use, choose to use PICT, as this format is more or less compatible with almost all programs, thus can adjust easily to another format type.

The standard clipart is generally not a very precise and detailed drawing; the majorities are images or illustrations having very little detail or are called outline drawings. With this, the standard clipart is often use on documents in the web.

Baby clip art is an exciting way of enhancing your work with illustrations that you believe can make magic. Considered the cheapest, most affordable and the most colorful way, they are available free and printable.

A software is available for making your own baby shower clipart; easy and convenient to use, it can convert or transform any of your favorite photo into a clipart

If you want to make your own baby shower clip art, a software is available for just that purpose. Most software is easy to use, and can convert your pictures/snapshots into clipart quickly.

The internet offers a free massive collection of baby shower clipart illustrations that will be of use to enhance, give attention and beautify your own baby shower invitation, baby shower thank cards and announcements. Having this choice, you can save a lot, than having a made to order invitation from a store. With the availability of free clipart, you can now make an invitation that way you want it to be, without sacrificing your budget.

One does not need any artistic skills for this. You can choose to purchase a better featured clip art from the web; though it isn't necessary, as there are countless of free clipart provided for you in the net. You just have to know where to look.

Before each print out is made, do not waste your card stock by printing on it immediately. Instead, do a proof print first, using a black and white ink on plain paper, or change your printer setting to draft or economy and do the proof print this way. The printer will use less ink, and you will see the actual result, making sure that everything is at the right place, before proceeding to the final printing of your very own baby shower invitation.

Ideas for Baby Shower Centerpieces

2007-12-12T07:32:00.000-08:00

There are many things you can use for a baby shower centerpiece. The more traditional centerpieces that are usually used for baby showers are floral arrangements. You can place a selection of your favorite flowers and arrange them in a beautiful basket. If you have a theme color, or motif, you can incorporate it to the or of your flower arrangement.

There are many different sizes and shapes of basket that you can use for your flower arrangements. The best thing about flower arrangements is that they add an element of the outdoors in your home. The freshness and beauty of these flowers would add a delicate touch to your baby shower.

If you want to make your centerpiece fun, and more delightful, you can add baby things in your floral basket such as: washcloth, soft toys, baby bottles, bears and bunnies, teething toys, small colorful socks, etc. This would fit right into the theme of the baby shower.

But if you don't want to make your own baby shower centerpiece, you can always buy these floral centerpieces ready made. The price varies depending on what's included in the pack. The average price of the baby shower basket is around $60. It includes an arrangement of flowers, and baby items such as: rubber ducks, soft toys, blankets, washcloth, rattles and comb & brush sets.

Another centerpiece that is popular in baby showers is a diaper cake. Now, understand that a diaper cake is actually not an edible cake. It is a set of diapers that is arrange in such a way as to resemble a real cake! The great thing about this is that the diapers can then be used by the baby after the baby shower. This a very practical baby shower centerpiece.

But if what you are after is a more festive mood, you can always use balloons!
After all, what is a celebration without balloons? Tie a stack of colorful balloons
to a weight, then place them on your table. Balloons are very cheap. If you are working on a limited budget, then balloons are a great idea. Plus, they are so easy to find. Just run down to any party store, and voila! Balloons!

Hey! did you know that plants can be centerpieces too? Just add a toy along with a plant, like a tiny bear or a rubber ducky, and place it in a colorful pot. Instantly you have a unique baby shower centerpiece.

Fishbowls work as a great centerpiece too! Decorate your fishbowl with beads, add some water and floating candles. This would make a lovely centerpiece.

A baby shower gift basket also works as a centerpiece too. If you have received such a present in advanced, why not put it out on display. The great thing about this, is that it already follows the theme of a baby shower.

The secret is to get creative. There are no rules when it comes to baby shower centerpieces. You can even use stuffed toys, and tie them to balloons.

Maybe you want to create a beach theme, you can place a small baby blanket, a toy boat, a beach ball, and even a small treasure chest!

The occasion of a baby shower is a happy occasion for a new mother, and
the baby on board. Baby shower centerpieces add to the atmosphere of the occasion. So just get creative and have fun with it!

Right Words for a Baby Shower

2007-12-11T05:30:00.000-08:00

Baby showers are a prelude to miracle which is the birth of a newborn baby. It is this occasion where friends, family and other people who know the parents to be, are gathered together to give gifts and make this occasion memorable to everyone present.

This baby shower usually happens a month or 2 in advance and making the right invitation can be just as challenging as planning the entire event.

There are many ideas and themes one can think of to make the invitation a good preview of what is to come during the baby shower itself. The important thing is that the invitation should set the mood for the occasion and with the proper planning and a little imagination with friends or professionals, it will surely make this baby shower stand out over others that people have gone to.

The one who will host this event is usually a very close friend of future mother. That person can start by talking to the mother and other members of the family what kind of theme will be appropriate for the party.

The proper words should express the love and anticipation that the future mother has for the newborn baby. The host must do it by putting oneself in the shoes of the mother. If that person has had children in the past, it will be quite easy to relate to that situation. If this person has not had any children yet, then it is best to ask the help of those who have so that person can help empathize what the future mother is experiencing.

Just like any other invitation, it should have the name of the person to be invited, when and where the event will take place, the contact number of the one hosting the event, the gender of the baby and the theme of the party.

If the newborn baby is a boy, a good example for a theme is a sailboat. The invitation can be shaped into a little sailboat then on the inside; it can start off with the ow the boat?nursery rhyme before inviting the people to the shower party.

On the other hand, if it is a girl, an example of a good theme is a cookie. The theme is based on the poem that tells how little girls are made which usually come from sugar and spice and everything nice.

If during the discussion with the future mother one has learned that the sex of the baby is to be kept a secret until the shower party itself; one can make an invitation with a cute drawing of a baby wrapped inside a blanket carried by a stork. This should keep everyone guessing and make the party a fun one.

A challenging invitation is when the parents have not decided on the name of the baby yet. One can make an invitation that has various letters of the alphabet that will give people an idea that this occasion is to help out decide on the baby name.

There are other ideas and themes to make the shower a memorable occasion. It just takes some planning and little imagination to make this baby shower stand out over others that people have gone to.

The host can do alone, plan it with other friends or get a professional to help out.

Baby shower cakes - sweets for the baby shower party

2007-12-10T05:11:00.001-08:00

Baby shower cakes are a great way to end a joyous baby shower party. Baby shower cakes are specially decorated for baby shower parties. Baby shower cakes can be designed to match the theme of the baby shower party. Baby shower cakes are not only delightful to look at, they are also good to eat.

When shopping around for baby shower cakes, it's a good idea to ask the mom-to-be what type of cake flavor she wants for the cake. Baby shower cakes can be made from any cake flavor and icing for the enjoyment of the celebrant and the other party guests. Baby shower cakes are also interesting as there is no end to the creativity and design of these lovable cakes. Baby shower cakes make for an ideal centerpiece at the food table of the baby shower party.

Baby shower cakes are sometimes referred to as 'diaper cakes' or 'baby cakes'. What's the difference between them? Baby shower cakes are the actual cakes that can either be homemade or bought from the store. While 'diaper cakes' are baby shower basket cakes that consist of different baby items.

'Diaper cakes' may be a real cake decorated with baby diapers and assorted baby items. Or 'diaper cakes' may also be made of real baby diapers that are arranged like a layered cake. The decorations of the 'diaper cake' consists of a variety of baby items for the newborn.'Diaper cakes' are wrapped in cellophane and tied with adorable ribbons for a finished look. Like the scrumptious baby shower cakes, 'diaper cakes' make for interesting conversation during the baby shower party.

Homemade baby shower cakes

The process of making baby shower cakes is the same as making any other type of cake. However creating homemade baby shower cakes requires a certain degree of creativity and baking ability to arrange one for a baby shower party.

Individuals who are adept in cake decorating and are gifted bakers may do well in creating baby shower cakes for friends' baby shower parties. The celebrant and guests will surely appreciate the effort that went into the creation of the homemade cake for the shower.

There are a number of helpful baking items that can be used to create homemade baby shower cakes. Many baking supply stores offer a wide variety of special baking pans with different designs for baby shower cakes. Popular cartoon characters on special baking pans make great baby shower cakes.

Store-bought baby shower cakes

But those who are not skilled in baking need not worry. There are numerous specialty bakeshops that create exceptional baby shower cakes. Many specialty bakeshops can also customize baby shower cakes to match the theme of the baby shower party.

It is important to get baby shower cakes from a quality bakeshop that specializes in designer cakes. This will ensure that the cake is fresh, good-tasting and aesthetically appealing. It is best to shop for baby shower cakes in advance in order to get the just right cake for the baby shower party. It is also important to shop early as most of the best specialty bakeshops offering baby shower cakes are also the busiest in town.

Whether homemade or store-bought, baby shower cakes are a sweet ending to a festive baby shower party.

BABY SHOWER CAKE IDEAS: FOR A GREAT CENTERPIECE AND DESSERT

2007-12-09T07:52:00.000-08:00

A baby shower is a form of celebration that aims to welcome the newest member in the family. Although baby showers were originally intended only for first-borns, modern practices now allow baby shower parties for every baby that comes in the family.

Baby showers are usually organized and arranged by the relatives and close friends of the parents-to-be. They are a good way to help parents get started with the things that they need for the baby. Note, however, that there are some cultures and religious beliefs that do not consider it proper and that it is considered bad luck to have a party and bring baby things in the house before the baby is born.

Over the years, baby showers have evolved into various names, such as the following:

"Daddy's shower" - a men-only party for dads-to-be

"Grandma's shower" - a party where guests bring baby items (such as collapsible cribs and changing pads) that grandparents can keep at their house.

"Diaper showers" or "baby sprinkles" - a small-scale party that is usually held for succeeding children, and ideal for parents who do not need as many items (or gifts).

It is common for a baby shower to have a theme, to which the entire party centers on. Baby shower essentials typically include games, presents, and food?and a cake!

A party is not complete without a cake, and this also applies to baby showers.

Cakes are one of the great things about baby showers, and they can be made using various basic techniques, such as the following:

1. All-in-together - this is done by placing the dry ingredients in a food processor (together with the shortening) before gradually adding the liquid ingredients.

2. Creaming method - this is done by 'creaming' butter and sugar together before gradually adding the rest of the ingredients.

3. Rubbing method - this is done by 'rubbing' the butter into the dry ingredients before adding the liquid ones.

4. Melt-and-mix - this is done by are first mixing the dry ingredients together, adding the melted butter and the other liquid ingredients afterwards to complete the cake.

5. Sponge-making - this is done by whipping the eggs and sugar into a froth, with the flour carefully mixed in. Making a light sponge requires great skill, as it does not use any raising agent or fat.

Finished cakes are usually enhanced with the use of frosting (icing) or toppings (such as sprinkles.

There are different varieties of baby shower cakes to choose from. Some of them are listed below:

Angelfood cake

Butter cake

Butterfly cake

Carrot cake

Cheesecake

Chocolate cake

Chiffon cake

Cupcake

Devil's food cake

Fruit cake

Gingerbread

Ice cream cake

Mooncake

Pineapple upside down cake

Pound cake

Spice cake

Sponge cake

Aside from the cake varieties above, there are also a lot of baby shower cake ideas that can make a baby shower celebration more special:

1. Belly Cake. One great idea is to design a baby shower cake and make it look like a pregnant belly. This can be done by placing a circular cake in front of a rectangular cake and frosting them together to resemble that of a pregnant belly.

2. Toy Blocks Cake. Another idea is to design a baby shower cake and make it look like children's toy blocks (either one large block or 3 to 4 smaller blocks). Toy block cakes can be further enhanced by surrounding them with candies or little toy cars.

Of course, you can also experiment and try to come up with creative ideas of your own. Remember that the 'goal' is not only to make a yummy dessert, but also a great centerpiece that will stand out in the memories of the parents-to-be.

Choosing Baby Shower Cakes

2007-12-08T22:13:00.000-08:00

Preparing for a baby shower party can be a tedious task. You need to define the guest list. You need to conceptualize the theme, print and send the invitations, and then prepare for the special date itself.

For the party, you will think about what decorations to use on the place, what will be the program, what games to have, what baby shower favors to give, and, what to serve.

During the baby shower party, the table centerpiece is most likely to be a baby shower cake. The baby shower cake cannot be similar to the cake that can just be bought from the local bakeshop.

It is better if you or one of the guests baked the baby shower cake. Doing so will also assure you that the cake that will be served as a table centerpiece is in accordance with the theme that you have conceptualized.

Of course, preordering the cake will also be fine as long as you give enough time for the cake to be prepared and that you have discussed with the person who will prepare the cake the concept of the baby shower party and how you would like the cake to look.

However, if you have some baking skills, or if you can follow instructions from cookbooks well, it is advantageous to prepare the cake yourself. You can use your creativity for the design and you can always ask for help from friends. Needless to mention, it is also less costly.

To prepare the baby shower cake, check online for tried and tested recipes and designs. You can also choose the flavor of the baby shower cake.

Usually, the designs and shapes of baby shower cakes are nursery items. These are flowers, birds, butterflies, baby-shaped, toys and other kid stuff. The most common icing colors are yellow, pink, blue, green and white.

In addition, if you have scheduled the baby shower after the baby was born, you can also ask for the baby's picture and have professional cake decorators create and edible cake design using the baby's picture.

Another idea for the baby shower cake is to use diapers. That right ?diapers. Of course, this cake is not for the guests to enjoy. However, the mom will definitely appreciate it if there is already a stack of diapers prepared for the baby.

To prepare a diaper cake, all you need to do is carefully stack rolled diapers into several levels (having three levels is suggested). You may use laces and ribbons to keep the diapers in place. However, make sure that you did not tie the diapers too tightly together to prevent them from being deformed. Deformed diapers will be useless and will just end up in the garbage bin.

The diaper cake can also be placed as a table centerpiece. If you still prefer to have a real cake for the baby shower, you can bake or order a simple cake from the bakeshop.

After preparing the table centerpiece, you need to combine it with good baby shower food. Most of the time, snacks, tea, desserts and punches are served. You can also have some barbecues and grilled foods, in case you have invited some male guests. The dads can bond and have some conversation while attending to the grills. This way, everyone can participate in welcoming the new member of the family.

Baby Shower FAQs

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A baby is always a reason to have a celebration. Thus, there is the baby shower.

Baby showers have gained considerable popularity in the past decade. This may be attributed to families becoming smaller; therefore each child gets more individual attention.

What is a baby shower?

A baby shower is a party thrown in honor of a couple who is expecting their firstborn. Baby showers are held with the purpose of bestowing gifts upon the first-time mother so she'll have the items needed by the baby on its arrival day.

Baby showers also serve as a welcoming event for a new member to the family.

Who can have a baby shower?

By tradition, a baby shower is held only for the first baby. Today, a shower is held for every baby. After all, each and every baby is special, don't you agree?

Who hosts the baby shower?

Traditionally, a close friend or a family member from either side organizes the baby shower. But, you can have anyone throw a baby shower for you. Be it family, friends, or co-workers.

When is the best time to have the baby shower?

Usually, the baby shower is held in the later stages of the pregnancy, around four to six weeks prior to the due date.

Sometimes, people purposefully wait for the baby to arrive for some reason.

Who are to be invited to the baby shower?

It depends. If it is a work place shower, naturally you might only invite co-workers of the mommy to be. Or if it is a family shower, invite family members. But you may also opt to just hold one big baby shower where everyone is invited.

These days, couples showers are also becoming popular. During a couples shower, both men and women are invited. And surprisingly, guys enjoy baby showers as much as women do.

Be also mindful when inviting friends who have recently experienced losses or are having problems having a child. Most may feel left out if uninvited. What you can do is to ask them personally if they would be able to come in respect to their current situation.

And to avoid leaving out someone uninvited unintentionally, write a guest list beforehand.

What themes are appropriate for a baby shower?

Themed baby showers are of course a bit more difficult to organized. The more famous themes include,

1. Mother Shower. Shower the mommy with gifts to pamper her. This is a nice twist over the usual gifts of baby items.

2. Dad's Shower. Gifts for dad like coffee, Tylenol, etc. will be appropriate.

3. Baby Safety Shower. All presents must be of a safety nature.

4. Nursery Theme Showers. Concept of the baby shower is based on the nursery's theme.

What to serve the guests on the baby shower?

If you are adopting a theme, try to match the food you will serve with your particular theme.

The time of day when the baby shower is to be held also plays an important factor. If you are having the shower at about noon or at dinnertime, serve a full meal as this will be what your guests expect to be served. For early afternoon or early evening baby showers, finger foods, cake, and a light punch will do.

As with the choice of food, as much as possible serve those that may also be ingested by the mother-to-be. Which most likely does not include alcohol. As a substitute, serve sparkling cider instead.

There are a lot of things to consider during a baby shower. But of course, nothing beats proper planning and early preparation.

Have a great baby shower!

Tips For Planning Great Baby Showers

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Baby showers are parties thrown for friends that are pregnant. This practice has significantly changed over the course of the years and has gradually become more and more elaborate and planned.

Baby showers can make an expectant mother feel more secure in the fact that her friends are all pulling for her and giving moral and financial support. Usually the baby shower is organized by non-relatives. But today, there is isn abnormal to find family members, support group members, church friends and pretty much anyone except the expecting mother.

Inviting the Guests
Who should you invite? Usually, the guest list will only include those nearest and dearest to the expectant mother. It wouldn hurt if she gets a first look at the guest list so that she can suggest who should be invited. If you are planning a surprise baby shower, you will have to do a little research on who should be attending instead of running the list through the expectant mother.

If the child is not a firstborn, you may opt to keep the number of guests down to the closest to the mother. Firstborn baby showers tend to have a larger guest list since it is, after all, the mother's first time.

The thing to remember is that the nature of baby showers is intimacy. So, for any baby shower party, try making the gathering one of intimate friends.

You could use informal ways to invite these guests: email, phone and others. Invitation cards and other letters are the best way, however, as they provide a tangible, traceable evidence of invitation. Plus, it is the most sure and formal way to invite a person ?and in many cultures ?the only way.

What About the Guys
The nature of the party is probably going to tend towards the feminine side; if the organizers of the party have a provision for this, then inviting men would be fine. It also depends on the men, since the party may dwell on topics such as pregnancy, children, and other motherly topics, they might not be that excited to join. All in all, it depends on the preference of the organizers.

Venue
Anywhere! As long as it can keep with the placid and fun nature of the occasion, any place would be fine. The more usual places on baby shower lists are backyards, formal halls, restaurants, and basically any room that has the amenities to make a baby shower successful. Just make sure the venue is not crowded and stressful to the mother-to-be. It also pays to make sure the venue is set long before the actual baby shower happens.

When to Throw a Baby Shower
Usually this is one or two months before her due. The baby shower is the perfect time to get your friend baby needs and stuff she may not have had time to purchase yet. It has to be well-timed though ?not too close to the due date, and not to far as to whittle down the excitement.

Baby showers are a pleasant surprise to expecting mothers. It takes a lot of the stress of expecting a child off of their minds and provides a means for friends to show support and concern (and of course, baby gifts) to expecting friends.

A properly coordinated baby shower will be greatly appreciated and forever remembered by mothers long after they have delivered their children.