The Baby Shower is a relatively new concept to these shores, but with 2 in 3 UK mothers-to-be now planning pre-birth celebrations, the ‘Baby Shower’ is the new black in the world of pregnancy. We British may seem slightly less sentimental than our American cousins, but come on – who doesn’t coo over tiny little baby booties, ‘ooh’ and ‘ahh’ over feeling a baby bump and want to scoff cute cupcakes? Baby showers aren’t just for those over the pond – we can party with the best of them!

Ensure your party is memorable with our step-by-step guide to throwing the perfect shower – all you need to worry about is whether to have 1 or 2 cupcakes…

When?

Traditionally a shower should be held when the mother is blooming, so anywhere in the third trimester is a good idea. Hopefully, most soon to be mummies will have got through the tiring morning sickness phase and be glowing at this point meaning great photos and one happy Mum! Memories of the baby shower will be priceless so make sure you capture them all on camera by giving each attendee a disposable camera. You can then gather the photos before getting them made up into an album, and don’t forget to upload your best ones on to the Silver Cross Facebook page!

Where?

Getting a group of fabulous women in one location on the same day at the same time can be on a par with getting the leaders of the free world together. The key here is planning, planning and yes – more planning. Send your invites out at least a month early, this gives everyone time to clear the date, organise travel arrangements and panic over buying you and baby a brilliant gift (send them in the direction of www.silvercross.co.uk if they’re really stressed)! Hiring an area in a restaurant is ideal – it will feel like a ‘time off’ for the Mum and the washing up will be taken care of. Most restaurants will also be able to offer you a set menu if you’re on a budget, so don’t be afraid to ask!

Details, details, details…

Ok, so you have a time and a place, but what about everything else?! First things first, pick a theme, this can be as simple as ‘Pink’ or as elaborate as ‘The Wizard of Oz’ – just pick one. Now that you have a theme, picking everything else will fall into line. Remember that you’ll need a few decorations, invitations and lots and lots of cake! All of these things should be inspired by your theme which will result in a pretty, coordinated party.

On the day

Arrive at the venue at least 45 minutes before everyone else to decorate and relax! Remember, that this is a day to celebrate a new life coming into the world, and this should be done however you see fit. Don’t feel pressured into having an elaborate do – if a pot of tea and homemade cake is what the Mum wants – that is what the Mum shall get!

The most important and final step in throwing a shower is to have fun and enjoy the moment. Good Luck!