Whether you're planning your own baby shower or are hosting for a dear friend, it's no secret that planning the perfect baby shower can be an expensive endeavor. Between the cake, decorations, gifts and fun party favors, baby showers can quickly max out even the most carefully constructed budget. If you're worried that your next baby shower might break the bank, not to worry: we've outlined the best baby shower ideas for a budget-conscious mommy or friend. With all of these great tips and techniques under your party-planning belt, you'll have more money left over for the most important guest at the baby shower: your new bundle of joy!
Use Secondhand Decorations. Know someone who's had a baby shower before yours? You're in luck - since baby shower decorations can often stretch even the most lenient budget, using secondhand decorations will save you plenty of much-needed dollars. If you don't know anyone who's had a baby shower in recent memory, not to worry: either request that the host venue decorate the room with flowers and balloons, or you can request a special discount from baby and party stores. Most businesses are happy to accommodate the requests of expectant mothers, so don't be afraid to haggle on the price of decorations. After all, store prices aren't set in stone, no matter what they'd like you to believe!
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If these techniques lead you nowhere, simply reuse decorations that you already have. For example, white Christmas lights will look gorgeous strung around the room, and you'll be pleasantly surprised at how just a few inexpensive balloons can make a room look more festive. Place a few stuffed animals, baby toys and other baby-related around the party table for a nice touch that won't max out your party budget.
Use Real Cutlery. Want to save on cutlery? Instead of purchasing paper plates and plastic forks, opt for your real plates and cutlery instead. Yes, you might have more dishes to contend with, but you can easily save twenty dollars or more by using what you already have for food and cake. If you're really upset at the thought of doing dishes, enlist a friend or relative to lend a hand.
Bake Your Own Cake. Even the most amateur chef can easily whip up a large cake that will be the highlight of the baby shower. Instead of ordering a cake from a bakery (which can run upwards of , depending on your order), grab a few cake mix boxes from the grocery store and get to work on your culinary masterpiece. For a "sweet" touch that your guests will appreciate, add some special baby-themed designs to the frosting. Not sure you have the time to bake a cake? Enlist a talented friend or relative to whip it up for you. Remember, this event is a family affair; it's not up to you to plan every single detail, so don't be afraid to ask for help when you need it most.
Do Away With Paper Invitations. Now that everything is done via the internet, take advantage of this cost-cutting avenue by sending out electronic invites as opposed to paper invitations. Sites like Evite.com allow you to create and customize free invitations which will light up anyone's inbox. Got a Facebook account? Send out baby shower invitations right from your own profile in minutes - since everyone from your cousin to your grandmother is on Facebook, you can be sure that word gets out about your exciting baby shower.
Buy Food In Bulk. Feeding your guests can be quite a challenging task, especially if you have a number of friends and relatives attending your baby shower. However, you don't have to spend a week's salary on food just to keep your guests satisfied; instead, buy food for the party in bulk. A giant bag of veggies with dip will make a great finger food, while a cheap and easy deli platter will satisfy even the hungriest baby shower guest. Dessert can be found in the freezer aisle, where you can buy large quantities of mini eclairs, donuts and other glazed goodies. Head to your nearest wholesale store to find the best budget-friendly deals that will keep your guests well-fed and content.
Baby Shower Favors. Want to make sure that all of your guests leave with fun favors? Instead of spending a large part of your budget on favors, head to your nearest dollar store and stock up on mini-gifts. You can buy fun baby-themed toys and stuff them into mini-gift bags for an adorable touch, or buy more adult-centered gifts like scented candles, picture frames and the like. Whatever you choose, make sure that each guest receives his or her gift - after all, your baby shower will be a day that everyone wants to remember!
Baby Shower Ideas For a Budget Conscious Mommy
I am a retired grandmother who enjoys babysitting all six of my priceless grandchildren. In my spare time I stay active, travel, and write informative articles about the importance of a safe crib mattress and other topics that matter to me.
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