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When the host sees the fruits of her hard work, planning, and time, producing a successful baby shower can be hugely rewarding. The joy and pride in seeing the guest of honor being showered with love and gifts makes all the effort put into the event worthwhile.

Because of the work involved in a baby shower, it's usually hosted by a close friend or family member of the guest of honor. And this honored position carries with it a huge amount of influence in deciding one of the biggest questions about the shower - is it surprise for the mom or will she know about it ahead of time?

Holding a surprise shower dictates closer communication between the guest of honor and the host. They'll have to slyly set aside time on the mom's calendar so she'll be available for the shower without her knowing what the fuss is all about. And one of these people will also have to create transportation and a cover story to deliver the mom to the event without having a clue about what's going to actually happen. Meanwhile, the host will be tremendously busy greeting guests and keeping the party rolling.

A regular shower requires less subterfuge, but it can still be just as much fun with the buildup of anticipation for the event. In either case, I highly recommend setting a theme for the event, since a theme will help you organize and shop for the event for things like invitations, decorations, games, and maybe even for the menu.

How far in advance should shower invitations be mailed out? At least four weeks is my recommendation. This will give family, friends, and co-workers of the expectant mom plenty of time to clear their schedules and plan for sitters. Make sure to have all the necessary information on the invite: time, date, place, contact information, and if the mom's registered, the shower registry.

As guests arrive, the host must greet and welcome them. The expectant mother should be made as comfy as possible since she is, after all, the guest of honor! Usually, party favors are given as each guest arrives and then appetizers or finger foods are served. Baby shower games are great ice breakers, especially since there are bound to be people who don't know each other. Small prizes to the winners can be given like hand lotion, small hand soap, chocolate candies, etc.

Before the guests leave, the expectant mom may want to open the baby shower gifts and have her reactions recorded on camera. Someone should assist her in recording the names of the giver and the gift brought for later use in sending thank you notes.

A well-planned baby shower is a wonderful event celebrating the arrival of a precious, new baby. Here's to making yours a success!

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