Where can I purchase baby shower invitations?
When should the invitations be mailed?
When should guests RSVP by?
Who should throw the baby shower?
Who pays for the shower?
What do you do at a baby shower?
What about the guys?
Where should the shower take place?
Are themes appropriate?
What kind of games can you play at a baby shower?
What of food do you eat at a baby shower?
Is it appropriate to throw a shower in celebration of a second baby?
When should I have the shower?
How much money should be spent on prizes?
How long should the shower last?

Where can I purchase baby shower invitations?
Visit PrincessPrints.com for a great selection available to order online

When should the invitations be mailed?
These should be mailed to out-of-town guests about 4-6 weeks prior to the shower and about 2-4 weeks prior for local guests.

When should guests RSVP by?
A good guideline for the RSVP deadline should be 2 weeks before the shower, but be sure to plan for guests that RSVP late or not at all.

Who should throw the baby shower?
Anyone except the expecting couple should host the shower. Keep in mind that baby showers call for more relaxed etiquette than that of bridal showers. Baby showers are intended to congratulate the new mommy and also to help her with the upcoming expenses of a newborn. Usually, a close relative or friend from either the mother or the father's side hosts the shower. However, any well-wisher - even those not related to you - can throw a baby shower.

Who pays for the shower?
Normally, the cost of the shower is footed by the hostess and is her gift to the mother-to-be. One of your first tasks in planning the shower is determining your budget. You can create a low-cost baby shower that's truly lovely and memorable; however, if you find yourself scratching your head and fretting over money, consider finding a co-host or two. It's appropriate to ask for help with the expenses (and the preparation!), but don't ask the mom or dad-to-be or anyone who is struggling financially (don't need any embarrassment). There may be a some guests who don't have the time to help prepare but would be happy to contribute towards the cost. Or some guests may not be able to attend but can contribute. By figuring out your budget and the possible need for co-hosts and/or asking for contributions in the earliest stage of planning, you'll save yourself a lot of stress in the long run.

What do you do at a baby shower?
Whatever you want! Generally, a baby shower involves activities pertaining to a particular theme. These activities include games, the opening of gifts, and a meal (sit-down or buffet). Of course, you can also hold a shower with no theme. The most important thing to do at a baby shower is to have fun celebrating with the mom-to-be!

What about the guys?
Including men at baby showers is a recent and growing trend. Couples Showers are as appropriate as any way to celebrate the little miracle. Besides, it takes two, right?

Where should the shower take place?
Where to hold your shower depends on your budget and accessibility. Most showers are held at the home of the hostess; however, if your budget allows, it can be held anywhere - even outside. Be creative and have fun.

If your home is big enough to hold the guests comfortably, you don't have to worry about pets during the shower, and your home is easily accessible for most of the guests, consider hosting at home. You can decorate at your convenience and it can be a lot cheaper. The downside is you'll be responsible for cleaning the mess after the shower.

If you can't host at your home, consider a co-host, church or a rental location (if your budget allows). If you choose a park or other public location, be sure to check with local authorities regarding permits.

Are themes appropriate?
Not only are themes appropriate, but they make the shower a lot more fun. In addition, you may find planning your shower to be a bit easier if there is a motif to work with. Themes also offer room for the host to become creative.

What kind of games can you play at a baby shower?
Keep your guest list in mind when you are planning your games, especially the mom-to-be. Games can be fun, but some may make people feel uncomfortable. For example, if your mom-to-be is very conscious of her weight or waist size, you should probably consider weight/waist size guessing games inappropriate. Click here to find some ideas for games at your baby shower.

What of food do you eat at a baby shower?
Food is a great way to build upon a theme, if your shower is based on one. However, whether or not you are hosting a themed shower, there are several factors to consider when planning your menu. First, keep in mind that whatever you are serving can be ingested by the mom-to-be. (For example, you will probably want to substitute sparkling cider, ice cream floats, or punch for alcohol.) Second, consider the time of day that the shower will take place. Guests invited to a lunchtime or dinnertime shower will probably assume there will be a whole meal served. In the afternoon or early evening, you may feel more inclined to serve an array of appetizers, sweets, or a lighter meal. Click here to find menu ideas for your baby shower.

Is it appropriate to throw a shower in celebration of a second baby?
It was once traditional to host a shower only for the mother's first baby. However, times are changing and showers are being held for every precious little newcomer. It is also very special to hold a shower for an adopted baby.

When should I have the shower?
Baby showers are typically held during the last two to three months of the mother's pregnancy. Many times, a mother may want to wait until after the baby is born to celebrate. A shower may be held either on the weekend or during the week, depending on which proves most convenient for guests, including those who live out of town.

How much money should be spent on prizes?
Generally, the prizes at your baby shower should be small, inexpensive gifts. Consider rewarding winning guests with hand lotion, candles, special soaps or even handmade gifts.

How long should the shower last?
Two hours is a good estimate. Things may wind down early or they may likely continue on as guests chat together.