Your best friend (cousin, sister, etc.) just found she’s expecting! The couple from church, who’s been waiting on an adoption to be finalized, just got the news that their child will finally get to come ‘home’. What do you do? Throw a baby shower, of course! It’s the best way to show your love and support for one of life’s greatest moments. And NO, you do not have to be a professional party planner to throw a great baby shower! Just follow these tips to help you plan the perfect baby shower!
First, you will want to talk to the mother-to-be or parents-to-be about timing. Generally, you will want to have the shower 4-6 weeks before the birth. This will get past those first few delicate months and give the couple (if they choose to know) time to find out the sex of the baby. You will want to take into consideration any friends or relatives that may attend from out of town, so schedule accordingly. If this is an adoption shower, you will need to discuss with the parents whether they want to wait until the child arrives. Adoptions can be complicated, so sometimes it is best to wait until after arrival or until child has time to get adjusted. Honor the parent’s wishes- this is their time!
Second, choose a theme. This doesn’t have to be complicated. If the parents have chosen a nursery or bedroom theme, you may want to stick with this and advise guests. If the sex of the baby is known you could just go with a pink or blue color theme for decorations; or be a little different and go with the mom’s favorite colors- that would be sure to put a smile on her face. With an adoption of an older child, you can ask what the child’s interests are and use this as an opportunity to make him/her feel extra welcome.
Baby shower invitations are sometimes difficult to choose. You want the perfect one to compliment the shower. Remember your theme- go with this. If you are having a difficult time finding THE one, there are a number of websites you can use to make your own. Important reminder: If this is an adoption shower, please stay away from invitations that indicate a pregnancy or show a mom’s big belly. You may find with adoption showers it is best to create your own, as you can choose the words or poem to indicate subtly that this is an adoption.
Remember the food and baby shower games! Yes, you are in charge of this, as well. For food, you should keep in mind your guest list. If there are older people or small children attending, you will need foods that they can eat easily. Try asking the mom-to-be what she has been craving! That would be a nice surprise for her. Usually nice finger foods and an assortment of drinks are a great way to keep it simple. Prepare the food the night before, to make things go smoother the day of the party. Choose games that fit the shower and guests! If there will be a conservative crowd, do not play What’s in the Diaper?, and if this is an adoption shower, choose games that focus on adoption not birth.
Lastly, you should make a checklist for the party. The things to do can add up and sometimes it’s the little things that get missed. If you have a checklist, you are more likely to stay on track.
