Throwing a surprise baby shower doesn’t
have to be difficult. In fact, it can be fun for all involved. All it takes
is a little patience, a few basic steps, and the cooperation of friends
and family.
A surprise shower does involve some secrets, so remember to be
stealthy. But you will want to make sure that the mom-to-be will
be up for a surprise. Early on in her pregnancy, try to ascertain
if she is up for a surprise baby shower or if she would rather
know in advance. This could eliminate surprising mom-to-be when
she is not feeling up to it. (If mom-to-be knows she has a surprise
baby shower coming up, she will be more likely to be dressed appropriately
when the time comes.)
Once you have determined whether the baby shower will be a surprise
or not, make sure that mom-to-be has registered for baby gifts.
Even if you are having a non-surprise baby shower, it is never
appropriate to ask the mom-to-be what she wants for the baby. Let
the registry do the talking so baby shower guests can feel free
to choose gifts within their own individual budgets.
You will need to enlist the help of those closest to mom-to-be,
particularly the dad-to-be. He will be able to help determine a
date and time for the surprise baby shower. As well as help to
get her there with the least amount of suspicion. He can also make
sure she doesn’t head out in a baseball cap and no makeup.
Perhaps thinking she is just coming over for coffee! Close family
will need to help with the preparation of a baby shower guest list.
Since you won’t be able to ask mom-to-be directly. You will
have to rely on her mother or mother-in-law and maybe a sister
to get this information. Be careful when sending the surprise baby
shower invitations. You will need to mention that this is a surprise
baby shower! You don’t want anyone accidentally spilling
the beans!
You can keep in the theme of surprising mom-to-be by going the
extra mile. By ensuring that an unexpected baby shower guest is
able to make it. Ask close friends of this baby shower guest to
help with the cost of travel. If this is necessary as part of mom-to-be’s
gift. She will probably love that more than a baby shower gift!
You can also play baby shower games with surprise themes. Try
playing the “diaper surprise” game by passing out diapers
to all of the guests. With one of them having a “mess” inside
(you can use chocolate or bean dip, or use your imagination). The
one who gets the messy diaper wins a prize.
Or if mom-to-be is expecting a boy, you can play “pin the
diaper on baby”. Just before your blind-folded guest of honor
goes to place the diaper on the baby. Squirt her with a water pistol
to simulate the “surprise” often associated with changing
a baby boy’s diaper!
Sometimes, no matter how hard you work to keep the baby shower
a surprise. Your mom-to-be may find out about it. Don’t let
this get you down, though. There will be some elements of surprise
for her. Whether she is expecting the baby shower or not.
It might be unexpected guests, party favors, or an exotic cake.
There will be plenty there that she didn’t count on!
About the Author
Randy is owner of http://www.planning-a-baby-shower.com where you will find further tips on baby showers and baby shower
games.
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