Visiting From the Nest

DowagerCountessofNJ

My sister is set to have her first baby in February.  I'll be in charge of the shower because my mom is a hot unorganized mess.  Where did your family have your shower?  Any pros or cons?

Thanks!

stacinsean

My family had my shower at The Rushes in Woodstown. It was very nice. I think the biggest pro was they didn't have to worry about set up or take down/clean up of anything. Also, all of the food was provided. They basically showed up, put the centerpieces on the table, made sure things were set up how they wanted and didn't have to worry about too much else (i make it sound like they did nothing, but it was an AWESOME shower). I also went to one at Botto's in Swedesboro that was very nice. I've been to ones in houses that were very well done as well. I guess it all depends on how much space you have and if you want to do all the work of having it at a non-restaurant setting.

Mrs.CatherineBuckman

The painted cottage in Collingwood is cute, I think the Mansion in Voorhees also serves a nice brunch. Personally, I prefer it to be at home or somewhere a little more private, especially if you are playing games ect.

 

A couple of great suggestions from a friend's shower:

First, her sister asked everyone to bring a bag of diapers (different sizes) in exchange for being entered into a drawing for a $50 dinner gift certificate.  It was a bit hit and my friend had enough diapers for an entire year!

 

Second, everyone that comes will always want their gifts used or loved.  They bought a bunch of plain onesies and a bunch of bows, puffy paint, and other decor items from Michaels or AC moore and had everyone decorate a onesie for the new baby.  They were adorable.

 

The book instead of wrapping paper was a great idea too for the green moms out there.

 

Don't forget to have everyone self address an envelope from the thank you cards you buy her.  It will save her a ton of work later!

stacinsean

Another idea is instead of a card (or for the wishing well) have everyone bring a children's book. I have so many great books, many with a little note inside saying it was their favorite book growing up, for my son because this was my wishing well theme.

I've also seen people ask to bring an unwrapped bib or various sized clothing item and then hung it on a clothesline as decoration/display.

DowagerCountessofNJ

Thanks for the suggestions girls!

phillygrl16

They also did the book instead of a card at my shower. I am so glad they did because Jack has so many books.

My shower was at Botto's in Swedesboro. They did a great job and my family didn't have to worry about cleanup, etc. They made diaper cakes as centerpieces - I'm still using the size 1 diapers from the cakes : ) 

nupyt

I had my baby shower at my mom's house.  I was sooooo big, I didn't want to be at a resturant so I insisted it be at someone's house so I could be comfortable on a couch. 

I loved the book instead of a card thing too.