Parent and Baby

The eminent arrival of a little bundle of joy is a very special event, never mind that it is the second, third and so on, it is still a special occasion. With this special day coming, there are many things to prepare and one of these is the preparation for the baby’s needs like apparel and equipments. Having a baby shower is one of the answers. This is a very exciting event especially for first time moms. Baby showers can be planned by anyone, from the new parents themselves to their friends, family members and workmates.

The first step in planning a baby shower is to decide on the theme. There are many themes to choose from like:

• Nursery theme: With this theme, the guests may choose upon the wide range of baby needs like playpen, bassinets, cribs, night light, wash cloths, crib toys and many more. The guests may choose to pool their money to buy a large item and smaller items are given individually. This theme is ideal for first time mothers.
• Adoption theme: For this theme, the guests will have to check with the parents to see what the new addition needs.
• Everything or Miscellaneous theme: This theme is perfect for mothers who have not yet shopped for the baby’s needs. Guests will not have a hard time in choosing which gift to bring since the giftable list is flexible.
• Time of Day theme: The guests with this theme shall bring something that corresponds with a time of day like mealtime, playtime, nap time, bath time and so on. Guests will be assigned a time of day.
• Gift basket theme: For this theme, the guests will be assigned a gift basket or they will be asked to choose which would they prefer. The baskets may include: feeding basket (feeding items), diaper basket (diaper changing items), bath basket (bath essentials), traveling basket (infant’s travel essentials) and so on.
• Coming out theme: In this theme, the guests will have a chance to cuddle and hug the baby. This is done a few weeks after the baby is born. The advantage of this theme is that the guests will not have a hard time in choosing the gifts.
• Second baby theme/ Mommy theme: This theme applies not only for the second baby but also for the succeeding babies. The guests will have to check with the parents as to what the baby still needs.
• Distance theme: In this theme, the guests need not have to be present during the actual baby shower. This theme is becoming popular nowadays since most family members and friends have relocated to other places. The gift items will be delivered.

Second step is to consider the budget. This will include determining the number of guests, the location, menu, party favors and prizes.

Third is to prepare the guest list. The list will include family members, friends and co-workers.

Fourth, is the invitation. The invitations can be sent out via a phone call, word of mouth or by printed invitations.

Fifth, with the budget in hand, you can decide on the menu. The menu must be appropriate for the time of day the shower is to be held. Special dietary needs of everyone invited should be considered.

Sixth is choosing the location. The location should be accessible and must accomodate comfortably the guests. The number of people coming will be considered most.

Seventh is selecting the date and time. The baby shower is normally around six weeks before the due date of the baby’s birth. Try to make the time and day convenient for everyone.