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An Open House Baby Shower
A New Twist on That Special Party for the Mom-to-be
By Renee Roberson
Open house baby showers are ideal for guests who want to show their love and support for the guest of honor and her new arrival but are limited on time. Whether the open house shower is thrown by a friend, relative or church members, there are many ways to structure it so it will be more relaxing and fun for everyone involved. And showers held after the birth of a baby are gaining popularity too, as guests will love bringing gifts perfectly tailored for the new addition.
- Invitations: Most people have a three- or four-hour window of time in which guests can drop in. For example, the invitation might say "Please join us between 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. for an open house baby shower honoring Jane Smith."
- Refreshments: Finger foods, such as cut-up sandwiches, meatballs, cocktail sausages, cheese and crackers, vegetables and dips, cake and punch are usually good choices. Ask guests to RSVP to help determine a more accurate count for food planning purposes.
- Games/Activities: This can be optional. If you have a few games you'd like for guests to participate in, it's probably best to try and orchestrate them when the largest amount of people have arrived.
- Gifts: The expectant mom can open gifts as her guests are leaving, or the host can set aside time during each hour so the mom can open gifts from guests who are still at the party.
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An Open House Baby Shower by Anonymous on 09/24/2009 10:40PM
My friend offered to have an open house baby shower for me. I was very hesitant since I had not heard of this before. I decided to research on the internet and found this article. It actually looks like it can be very fun and organized! We decided to have it at my house that way people can see the nursery and I can visit as they come. I think the first baby prob traditional is good, so you have the experience of the games, etc., but since this is my second I am loving this idea. Can't wait!! Thanks for the article!
An Open House Baby Shower by Anonymous on 05/05/2009 10:17AM
I think this is a great idea! My daughter is expecting her first child 2 months, but unfortunately, the baby is going to be born early, we're just not sure exactly when. The open house baby shower will be perfect for her (she is on strict bedrest) and if the baby arrives early, the shower will still work just fine and will be a much more relaxed atmosphere for everyone.
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An Open House Baby Shower by Anonymous on 10/24/2009 05:29AM
I am hosing an open house baby shower tomorrow! The mommy-to-be only wanted one shower, but had 80 people on her guest list. We figured an open house would be less painful for everyone involved, who wants to watch someone open that many gifts?!?? I noted on the invite that the shower is from 1-4pm at the local church's hall, but gift opening would be from 3-4 for the traditional people and family that really wants to see EVERYTHING she gets. We are serving snacky foods and no games will be played. Hopefully it goes well!