Decide if you need to delegate responsibility. If only a few friends and relatives of the mom-to-be are invited, you may be able to plan the shower yourself. But if the shower will be large, or last longer than the average shower, you may need to call on other guests for help.

Guests can help with food, decorations, material for games, and taking photos. After invitations are given, you can contact the guests who might be interested in helping. If you aren't sure who to call, ask the honored guest if anyone has expressed a desire to assist. In list form, write down what needs to be done and then offer these choices to volunteers.

The hostess is also generally responsible for providing gift ideas to the other guests. This can be done in different ways, depending on what feels comfortable for you. A second mailing of gift ideas or registry cards can follow the invitations, or guests can call you with questions. Gift ideas are not generally given with invitations, although registry cards or information are common. Again, it depends on how intimate the group of guests are. The key here is to know what the mom-to-be needs and wants and to be able to get that information out to the guests to make it easier for everyone.

Want to see more?

• You've Been Showered! Showering the Mom-to-be with Love
• Baby Shower Fun: Let the Games Begin
• The Coed Baby Shower: A Shower for Everyone
• Food for the Shower: Tasty Treats for the Baby Shower
• Shower Solutions: Baby Shower Gift Ideas and Tips
• Check out our Article Library.
• Talk about it!