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Planning a Baby Shower EssentialsWho should host the baby shower?Anyone can host the shower, except the expectant couple — though Miss Manners might disagree. Formal etiquette states that someone who's not a relative should host the shower. Otherwise, it may look as though the family is asking for presents. Who needs to go with the traditional rules? Any relative, close friend, or close co-worker should feel perfectly okay about planning the baby shower. When should the shower be held?Baby showers are typically held before the baby is born. It is best to hold the shower 6-8 weeks prior to the expected delivery date. This will allow the expectant mother time to organize all the gifts after the shower and write her thank you cards. When setting the party date, make sure to consult with the parents-to-be first. This way they can alert you of any conflicts with their schedules. Also, talk to close friends and family to check on their availability. You may have to accommodate out-of-town guests as well. Who should you invite?If you're hosting the shower, consult with the mom-to-be and find out if she has any objections to the guests on your lists. She can also check it over to make sure you have left any important friends or family out. Are you thinking about hosting a shower for the expectant mom and dad?Although many baby showers still follow the "for women only" tradition, coed parties are growing in popularity. It all depends on what sort of gathering you're planning. The new mother already had a shower with her first child. Is it o.k. to throw a second one?If the shower is for a second or subsequent baby (these babies deserve a celebration, too!), the guest list is usually made up of close friends and family and anyone who was, for whatever reason, not invited to the first shower. Another party-planning consideration:Think long and hard before choosing to throw a surprise party. If your guest of honor doesn't like surprises, you may be putting her in an awkward position. Besides, if you let the future parents in on the arrangements, you can be confident that they'll be pleased with the outcome. What information should be included on the invitation?Always include for who, what, when, where, RSVP information and who is hosting the party. If there is a specific theme, it can also be mentioned. Parents usually register for gifts and you may include it on the invitation or when the guests RSVP you can offer the information at that time. How soon should I send out the invitations?Invitations should be sent out at least 3 weeks in advance but not too much earlier. This will give the guests a few weeks notice and allow them time to shop for the perfect shower gift. How long should the party last?Two hours should be plenty of time for the guests to mingle, snack, play a few games and allow the mom-to-be to open her gifts. Make sure someone is available to make a list of all the gifts and the gift-givers name. This will make it easier for mom to address her thank you cards. Unique Baby Shower Gifts
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