Venue..People live two hours from Mom's House

StefaniePace · March 2011

Most of my family lives in the bay area (of CA) Which is two hours away from my Moms house. My house is in between most of my family and my moms. So an hour for most of the guests to drive.

Should I suggest my own house for my shower? We have two big inside dogs that we would have to find a place for. I would like to utilize inside and outside of my house do to space. I have two big rooms.. And a big kitchen. I would probably hire a cleaning service to deep clean my house before I had that many people over... I know that might sound lazy but Even now bending and cleaning isnt easy.. So I know it will only get harder.

Also.. There is my Aunts house that is in the bay area. She has offered it out. We used her house for my Bridal shower and it was a little tight. About 30 people for the bridal shower. I put my list together for the baby shower and I am at 40 people.. But also 7 children. So about 50. I am afraid my aunts house is too small. So for my mom and about 10 other it would be a 2 hour drive to my aunts.. For me and another 10 people it would be an hour to my aunts house.

I guess my big question is.. Do you think we should do it in Vacaville (where I live) because its in the middle? Or just do it at my Moms because she is hosting it. My Mom also said she wants me to look into some venues around town that hold showers/birthdays that maybe we could bring in our own food. I would love to find a place like this BUT I cant.. Most places are resturaunts and dont allow outside food or drinks.. except cake.

Help! Thanks Girls!

EastCoastBride · March 2011

Simple answer- having it at your house is perfectly fine. It actually makes sense to me - less transportation of the gifts. AND it's easier on your guests.

StefandTodd · March 2011

One of my showers is at my house b/c the hostess' house is very small. I'm excited about it.

My mom is throwing me a family shower and though I offered my house (she lives in another state and planned to host at a facility...but I think she should save the $$), she refused saying something about the cleaning beforehand and after, etc. I was so confused...like, well...you could help me clean up before and after maybe, mom? I mean, instead of paying for a facility just to avoid "dirtying" my house? Not to mention how I think it's not that much mess or big a deal, but she's much more nervous-nelly about that sort of thing than I am. Anyway...she insisted, and then her SIL offered her house nearby mine so it all worked out.

But yes, your house sounds just fine.

OctoberCAPA · March 2011

Have it at your house. I'm in the East Bay, and I would have no trouble driving to Vacaville for a shower and I doubt most of your other guests will mind driving an hour either. It'll be easiest for you and your mom can certainly still host. One of my showers was at my house and it was really convenient for me and my hosts liked using my kitchen (bigger than the ones in their apartments).

StefaniePace · March 2011

I am pretty sure I will be having it at my house. I am going to do all the cleaning I can, have the H clean the carpets, and call merry maids if we need any detailing. My house is pretty tidy besides counter top clutter and "dogness". So an at home carpet cleaning will be good. I am excited! I have been looking on craigslist for patio furniture and card/banquet tables. YAY so exciting!!

Corts · March 2011

Have you tried to find firehouses or VFW's somewhere near the halfway point? They all have kitchens and then a big room with tables and chairs. You can make pans of food and then bring it there to reheat. I've seen some gorgeous, recently remodeled firehouses. They may ask for about $100 or just request a donation.

Good luck.