When a close friend announces she’s pregnant, a wonderful way to honor her and make the baby’s arrival special is to plan a baby shower for her.  Even people who have never had a baby or even been to a baby shower have some idea of what babies are all about.  Keep in mind the traits all babies have in common, and you’ll be able to plan a fantastic shower for your friend.  Here are some tips to get you started:

1. Decide how big or how intimate you want the shower to be.  Does the mom-to-be have lots of friends, relatives, and co-workers?  Or will the shower be a smaller affair with just the closest friends?  Sometimes a first time mom’s shower will be larger, since she needs lots of items, and it’s a big deal to have a first baby.  For subsequent pregnancies, a smaller guest list might be preferable.
2. Send out invitations about one month ahead of time.  It’s sad to have a party that no one can attend because of previous commitments.  You want everyone who is important to the pregnant woman to be able to come, so give plenty of warning.

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