You found out you are pregnant and you know that a baby shower will be planned by your friends and close relatives.

A baby shower is the perfect way to share with loved ones the fantastic news that a baby will be arriving. Celebrated during the last few months of your pregnancy, your baby shower is usually hosted by your best friend or close relative.

If your close relative or best friend has volunteered to throw your baby shower, any help you can give them will be greatly appreciated. Careful planning is very important. This is to ensure that the event goes on smoothly and everyone will have a memorable day.

Below are 6 basic tips on how to plan a successful baby shower.

Tip 1 – Highly recommended for you to have a baby shower theme

A themed baby shower creates more excitement and fond memories for you. Share with your host the type of theme you want such as having a color scheme based on your baby’s gender.

Tip 2 - Make a party program early on in the preparation

Just eating and mingling does not make a great baby shower. Neither is just gift opening. It is a gathering among close friends and relatives. It is a time to celebrate the coming of your new baby and also a time for everyone to have fun. Singing, games and charades will definitely liven up your party.

Tip 3 – Decide on the location of your event

This is a very important point to consider seriously. When deciding the location of your baby shower, please advice your hosts of any health needs you might require.

Do you prefer an intimate party to be held at your house or do you prefer convenience. If your preference is intimacy and familiar surroundings, having a party at home will be more comfortable for everyone but be prepared for the hassle of preparation of the party and the cleaning up after.

If the post-party cleanup is not your cup of tea, then throwing the shower at a secluded bar or restaurant will be an ideal choice. The foods, drinks and decorations will be taken care of but it will definitely cost you more.

Tip 4 – Decide your menu in advance

If you are having the event during tea time, finger food, sandwiches and pastries will be the best choice. If you decide to organize it during lunch or dinner, do consider heavier food choices.

Tip 5 – Finalize the guest list

Working closely with your hosts on your guest list will avoid you missing anyone important. To avoid any embarrassing anyone, thorough thought to your guest list is highly recommended.

Tip 6 – It is time to send out the invitations

If you prefer a personal touch to your baby shower, suggest to your host to get a few friends together and create a personalized card especially for the event. Otherwise, purchasing ready-made shower cards from the mall is an good alternative, but less personalized.

Your guests need time to fix their schedule and reply to your invitation. It is highly recommended you send out the invitations two to four weeks prior to the party. Make sure you indicate clearly the venue, the time, date, theme, if any. Contact numbers for RSVP must be clearly written. Confirm and finalize your attendees list at least 5 days before the baby shower to ensure everything goes on smoothly.

A baby shower is a wonderful party and is something every expectant mother look forward to. Being organized and well prepared will ensure the event run smoothly and will be enjoyed by everyone.