Baby showers began hundreds of years ago (yes! hundreds!) as small gatherings of close friends of the new parents to welcome the arrival of the newborn. Back then, it was customary for guests to visit only after the baby was about a month old because of fear of diseases. The gifts brought were all homemade except for silver spoons from the baby’s grandmothers.

The timing of baby showers has changed radically in our modern culture. Instead of waiting for the baby’s birth, showers are now held beforehand. This allows the gifts friends and family present to be immediately available for the baby’s benefit at its arrival. And unlike days of old, baby showers are now held for every child, not just the first born.

Like other celebrations, the privilege and responsibility of coordinating the event lies with the host. When necessary, the mother-to-be is consulted, but the bulk of the work is performed by the gracious host. The important decisions about things such as location, date, time, guest list and invitations, decorations, and, most important, food(!) are all left in the capable hands of the host.

Baby shower invitations can range from simple as a personal phone call to customized invitations from top-of-the-line stationery stores. The decision on which to use is based on the geographical closeness of the guests, their preferred ways of communication, and the size of your guest list. Regardless of the method chosen, the invitations must be made or received at least a month ahead of the baby shower. This allows the guests enough time to make arrangements in their personal schedule to attend.

To break the ice, the smart host has baby shower games prepared. Games give everyone a chance to focus on a common task, show people’s personalities, and give a reprieve from small talk. You can find dozens of fun games online both for sale and gratis.

Baby shower favors can be home-made or also purchased online. Party supply stores offer plenty of items like tiny tin cans, party favor bags, take-out boxes, and other fun items that can be used to make custom favors. Let your imagination run wild!

No party is complete without food, and baby showers are no exception. Make sure that your food complements your theme, and you’ll look like the hostess’ with the mostest! Add a special twist to the festivities by creating cookies and treats in baby-themed shapes: rattles, bottles, cribs. This’ll put a smile on everyone’s faces.

A well-planned shower ensures that everyone will remember the fun-filled event for the mother-to-be and baby for a long time to come.