Who Hosts the Party?
Traditionally, the host of a baby shower would be a close friend of the mom-to-be. Now, just about anyone can host the party. Mothers, co-workers, friends, sisters, cousins and so on.

When should we have the party?
Baby showers are normally given anywhere between the seventh and ninth month. You don't want to have the party too close to the due date just in case she delivers earlier than expected. But, at the same time, its fun when she has a large belly at the party, so don't host it too early. Check with the mom to see what works for her.

Where should it be held?
Most baby showers are held in someone's home. But, restaurants, churches, and parks can all be nice places to hold the party. It depends on your budget and how comfortable you feel having the party in your home.

Do's and Don'ts Guideline

Here is a guideline on the do's and don'ts of hosting a baby shower party.  Simply keep your guest's comfort in mind.  Be organized and plan ahead for a successful party.

Do's:

• Send invitations in a timely manner, 3 - 4 weeks prior to the baby shower.  Always give enough time for guests to RSVP.

• Include directions to the party in the invitations.

• Greet all guests at the door as they arrive.

• Provide name tags if you have a large attendance of people who might not know each other.

• Introduce guests to one another at the beginning of the party.  If you have a seating arrangement, sit people together who know each other or have something in common.

• Provide tables for your guests to sit and eat if a meal is planned.  Place-cards are a good idea.  Please don't expect them to eat with their plate in their lap.
• Have centerpieces such as flowers or gift baskets for decorations.

• Bring the gifts to the mom-to-be as she opens the gifts.  She shouldn't have to carry anything - especially anything heavy.

• Write down which guest gave a certain gift.  This will help the mom-to-be when it comes time to send thank you cards.

• Be sure to have enough party favors on hand.  A little extra is good just in case!

• Get the party started on time and keep events moving at a good pace. You would be surprised just how long it can take to eat, open presents, play games, talk and eat cake.
• Plan a few baby shower games.  Consider using printable baby shower games to personalize your party.

• Walk guests to the door as they leave.

Don'ts:

• "Attend" the party - meaning: you should run the party, not sit back and relax.

• Eat before your guests do. Serve the mom-to-be first, then guests, then yourself.

• Don't leave the baby shower party first.  It's just plain rude.

• Don't exclude inviting guests that the mom-to-be wishes would be there.

• Don't forget to thank guests for coming as they leave.

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Written by Audrey Cowan, party planner and proud mom of two children. Visit MommyParty.com, online baby showers and resources.