Host a baby shower with all the trimmings and the mom-to-be will surely be tickled pink...or blue! There are many options to consider, so read on to create a picture-perfect party.
This check list is brought to you by clubmom.com
Ten weeks before:
Decide on a general plan.
Set a budget.
Determine the date of the shower.
Choose the location.
Eight weeks before:
Put together a list of guests' names and addresses.
Establish a theme or color scheme.
Decide on the food to be served.
Hire a caterer, if needed.
Order custom-printed invitations, if desired.
Six weeks before:
Buy preprinted invitations or make your own.
Employ a calligrapher, if desired.
Write out invitations.
Divvy up responsibilities to other guests.
Arrange for one guest to videotape or photograph the shower.
Four weeks before:
Mail invitations.
Order large rental items, if needed.
Book an entertainer, if desired.
Buy party accessories if you're ordering online or from catalogs.
Three weeks before:
Check the serving ware you have on hand.
Finalize menu.
Begin to buy nonperishable items.
Choose games to play at the shower, if desired.
Two weeks before:
Call guests who have not responded to your invitation.
Purchase party accessories that were not made or ordered.
Create seating arrangements.
Purchase beverages.
Buy your present for the mom-to-be.
One week before:
Place your flower order with a florist.
Order the cake, if you're not baking one yourself.
Order any prepared foods from a deli or a restaurant.
Order balloons from a party or stationery store.
Take an inventory of household supplies.
If the shower's a surprise, work out a plan to bring the mom-to-be to the party.
Finish assembling any decorations or favors you are making yourself.
Confirm entertainment, rentals, and party site.
One day before:
Clean the house.
Cook dishes that can be prepared ahead and refrigerate.
Bake cake. Cool, wrap, and refrigerate.
Pick up balloons and any last-minute items.
Accept delivery of rentals.
Buy bags of ice and perishable ingredients.
Wrap your present for the mom-to-be.
Start decorating, if possible.
Day of the party:
Pick up flowers from the florist or await delivery.
Pick up bakery cake or frost home-baked cake.
Pick up prepared foods, bread, and rolls.
Finish cooking and assembling homemade food.
Set up a gift station.
Do a final cleanup of the bathroom or powder room.
Set tables.
Give yourself a time-out.
Attend to last-minute tasks.
Arrive early at a not-at-home party site.
During the party:
Greet guests; start the party.
Touch base with your guest-photographer.
After the party:
Pack up the presents.
Pay balances and tips to hired help and outside facilities.
Say yes to offers of cleanup assistance.
Have a cup of tea or coffee and put your feet up.
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