While the mom-to-be awaits the arrival of her new baby, the baby shower is a great diversion and honors her as her pregnancy comes to an end. Organization is the key to an entertaining, successful shower, and knowing how to plan this special event can help make it fun for everyone involved.

Before you send out invitations, sit down with the mom-to-be and ask her what she would like from this event. What is her idea of a fun shower and who she would like to attend? Let her know that you want her to feel comfortable and most of all, to have fun. After getting her ideas, it is time to plan!

First, decide on a location. Typically, the shower is held in the hostess's home, but it can be anywhere that offers the space needed and the atmosphere desired. If the shower is to be held during a spring or summer month, an outdoor setting may be appropriate. During colder months, a church or recreation hall may be appropriate - especially if that place holds special meaning for the mom-to-be (for example, the hall where she and her husband had their wedding reception).

After determining the guest list, time and place of the shower, invitations must be sent. They can be chosen by you or the mom-to-be. In keeping with tradition, remember to keep one blank invitation for her baby book.

The invitation should include the following information:

The honored guest's name, due date and sex of the baby if it is known (with certainty).

The location of the shower.

The time the shower will begin and the tentative time it will end.

Your name and phone number.

Registry information (if available).

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