Idiot's guide to.....Baby Showers?

Usually 2 months before the baby is due.

If she knows about the baby shower, have her get registered at a local store that sells baby stuff. Gifts can be anything basic that you know she'll need. Newborn baby clothes, Baby bottles, etc.

There isn't really any tradition as far as food and invitations. Food varies from finger foods, to actually entrees of foods.

Favors aren't necessary, but they are fun!

We've had so many baby showers in my family!

One tradition that we sometimes do that's fun is we have guests bring two gifts: something they used with their baby that is special to them and a new gift. If you're inviting a big group of people, than let them choose what they'd like to bring.

We always do the showers around 7 months.

I think guests will know what to buy, but if they call you to ask make sure you don't tell the same type of thing to a bunch of different people. Also, people usually don't think about diapers, formula, baby food and socks. Another piece of advice: if people are insistant on getting clothes, make sure they're buying for all ages--newborn up to 18 months and so on so the baby will have a lot of clothes when he or she gets older.

For food my family is always into cooking so we bring baby themed things: baby meatballs, baby hot dogs in sweet sauce, baby italian sandwiches, etc.

Good luck and have fun!

Also, look up baby shower games online, those are always fun!

About 3 hours.

People will know what to bring

No traditional foods involved

Written invitations are necessary

Baby shower favors are not necessary, just food and nonalcoholic drink

Decorate a comfortable rocker with balloon and crepe paper.

Have a special cake made for the occasions.

People might want to chip in for bigger more expensive items like a car seat or stroller..

A case of Infamile is welcomed

A case of new born pampers is helpful

Most people bring things like clothes, mobiles, baby bags, carriers, umbrollers, blankets,crib sheets, bumper guards, hand knitted items. Have fun... she'll be thrilled with anything...it is an expensive time for new moms. .

Its better to wait until the third triamester for the shower, then she will have a belly. Plus then she doesn't have to store everything she doesn't need yet. You could have her register at a store or two so then people don't show up with twenty blankets. Or if you know of things she needs specifically you can tell people when they rsvp. As far as food, do something easy to eat, prepare and clean up. Like chicken salad croissants, cheese and crackers, fruit and or veggie trays. Its nice to give out favors at showers, but you don't have to. Or if you want to stay on the cheap side go to the dollar store. good luck!!

Check this site out, it should have all the info you need -

http://www.baby-shower-theme.net/