Ask An Expert: Tips For Hosting A Baby Shower
Linda Collins, independent consultant for BeautiControl, has a few helpful tips on how to plan a successful baby shower.
Linda Collins
BeautiControl-Independent Consultant
2121 Midway Road
Carrollton, TX 75010
(903) 268-6123
www.beautipage.com/lcollins_spa-now
What is the most important thing a host needs to do in order to host a successful baby shower? It is important to have a guest list and follow up with each guest to confirm they are coming. Have a definite plan. Include games, prizes, refreshments and, most importantly, make it fun.
What is your favorite game? One of my favorite games is the one where you guess the mother-to-be's belly size by tearing off a strip of toilet paper and guessing on what amount would wrap around her belly. The one closest to the accurate number gets a prize.
Should the host recommend gifts to the guest, or should the expectant mother register somewhere? It is best for her to register. That way she's less likely to receive duplicate gifts and you know what she needs and wants.
Should the host serve food or just some snacks?
Depending on the time, if the shower is between meals, then snacks are good. If it is planned during mealtime, then more of a meal is appropriate.
How many people should you invite? Should men be invited?
I would invite 15-20 guests. Keep in mind that half won't show, so invite accordingly. Definitely invite men. I wouldn't leave anyone out.
Ace Party Supplies
11710 E. Northwest Highway
Dallas, TX 75218
(214) 321-2010
www.acepartysupplies.com
Looking for some invitations, decorations, party favors and more? Ace Party Supplies is the place to go. Printed tableware is always 50-percent off at Ace, with unique party accessories, wearable invitations and even gifts to guarantee a good laugh. Ace is fun and family friendly and the smiles are free.
Related: Best DFW Places for DIY Spa Supplies
One Event Design
Dallas, TX
(214) 274-1831
www.oneeventdesign.com
One Event Design isn't just for weddings. One Event Design is a full-service event planner. You will get an initial, free-of-charge, one-hour consultation. This gives One Event Design a unique perspective on what you need for your baby shower. Your event coordinator will take all the hassle out of the planning. You are free to concentrate on other things while everything is taken care of for you.
April's Showers Special Occasion Planning
Fort Worth, TX
(817) 313-5158
www.aprilsshowers.net
If you're closer to the Fort Worth area, you won't want to miss April's Showers Special Occasion Planning. April's Showers is a full-service event planner, with resources in all areas of your events. It will find you cakes, cupcakes, invitations and even the perfect location, and all you have to do is be there. Take the hours of planning showers out of party planning and let the professionals handle the heavy lifting.
Michaels Arts and Crafts Store
2717 Market Center Drive
Rockwall, TX 75032
(972) 772-7930
www.michaels.com
If you feel competent in your planning skills and need somewhere affordable to get your party favors, Michaels is the place to go. Michaels offers free demonstrations to help you plan your extraordinary event. From centerpieces to party favors, arts and crafts and game ideas, Michaels is the place to party.
One Love Events
Frisco, TX 75034
(972) 619-3018
www.oneloveeventsplanning.com
Although One Love Events may remind you of wedding planners, it actually wears many hats. Baby showers are one of its specialties and it wants to help you plan a glorious gala. This family-owned business prides itself in coordinating your event with a personal touch. No matter how big or small, One Love Events will add its special brand of class to each celebration. So call and schedule your consultation today.
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Judy Serrano writes romantic thrillers at www.JudySerraon.com. She graduated from Texas A&M Commerce with a BA in English. She is also a freelance writer for Examiner.com. She lives in Texas with her husband, four boys and five dogs.
