To shower or not to shower?

Baby showers are a long-standing US tradition that’s getting big over here too. What a fabulous excuse for a party!

We all remember the rather glamorous example of a baby shower in Sex & The City. Lots of girls, plenty of cakes, far too many Manolo's and a few babies... it's the mature girls’ version of a sleepover! Here’s where you can find out putting your own one together.

First things first

The purpose of a baby shower is to 'shower' a mum-to-be with friendship, love and, of course, presents.

Two fairly crucial aspects of a party are the host and the date. The host should be anyone other than the mum-to-be. This is generally (but not always) a girly 'do' so it could be a friend, family member or work colleague.

When it comes to timing, a baby shower is traditionally held before the baby is born, perhaps in the final trimester of the pregnancy. However, many showers are now being held after the birth. This gives guests the opportunity to coo over the new arrival, and also to buy appropriate clothing if the sex has remained a secret!

While you could plan a surprise party, it's wise to take hormones in to consideration. Tell 'mum' what you've got planned and ask her when (and whether) she would like to be the focus of a party. It's also great for her to have something to look forward to either in the final weeks of pregnancy or after the birth, and gives her the chance to say whether or not she'd like it to be 'girl's only' or 'couples'.

When it comes to the time of day... an afternoon baby shower is often the best idea, allowing for tiredness in the late stages of pregnancy, or due to a new born baby!

If your name's not down...

The guest list... always a tricky one. Ask the mother-to-be (and dad if you're having a 'mixed' bash) who they would like to have there. Family, close friends and work colleagues are likely to be invited, and perhaps a few new friends from antenatal classes. Plan the theme, buy appropriate stationery, write the invites and deliver.

The all-important theme

As with all good parties, whether it's a wedding, anniversary or baby shower, you should consider your theme. Obviously, this needs to be appropriately 'baby'! You might choose a colour theme (baby blue, baby pink etc!), or something a little different. Perhaps focus on a children's story or nursery rhyme. You could, for example, have a Mad Hatter's Tea Party, or a Teddy Bear's Picnic. A baby shower is the perfect time to get nostalgic. Ask guests to bring a copy of their favourite childhood book (if it's still in print!), or even to bring their most treasured childhood possession.

Consider doing something that will result in a keepsake for the bride. A guest book is always great. Ask guests to come up with a poem or note for the new baby that they can write in the book, and be sure to have a Polaroid camera so that plenty of photos can be taken and stuck alongside the notes.

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