Planning a long distance baby shower is no mean feat. Even if you and your partner are both at home; it’s still quite likely that one or both of you will be thousands of miles apart. And while this may seem like an insurmountable task, don’t despair! It is possible to throw a memorable bash for your expectant friend – complete with plenty of laughter and smiles!
Let’s take a look at the various options available to you regarding planning a baby shower for someone living on the opposite side of the world.
In This Article
Introduction
Planning a baby shower for those who live far away from the expectant couple can be quite an undertaking. After all, it doesn’t make sense to throw lavish bashes for parents-to-be when they’re not in proximity!
That being said, there are many creative ways you can organize a baby shower if your guests don’t reside close by. These options are ideal for planning a baby shower that can accommodate guests of varying distance requirements: just pick one and go with it!
Choosing the Right Platform
Finally, it is necessary to select a website or platform that enables guests to sign up for an event.
Online options include:
Event planning websites allow couples to create bespoke events, thus enabling users to craft a memorable day that best represents their unique personalities and preferences while also accommodating guests’ needs. You could even collaborate with other users by creating an exclusive baby shower – catering just for those who are expecting! Alternatively, you could utilize this platform as a starting point for creating your own customized celebration.
Facebook, Twitter and Instagram are the perfect platforms for posting announcements about your baby shower. Not only does this convenience make it easy for guests and family members alike to find out about the event, but it can also be useful if you need to share links or provide details regarding the plan more expediently than over the phone or in person.
Invitations and Guest List
If you’ve been contemplating attending a baby shower within your geographical vicinity, then it’s likely that this may be the primary occasion where you get to interact with others. However, if you’re planning on inviting guests from afar – many of whom are not experienced in this kind conclave – then it’s essential to create a custom invitation for them!
The more people in attendance, the more tense your ‘party’ will be, so it is unwise to invite more than 20 guests at any given time.
Decorations and Themes
To create the ideal ambience of a baby shower, you will need to utilize some of your creative talents while adorning your space.
Surround yourself with yellow roses, dazzling white candles and congratulate one another on this auspicious momentous occasion!
To successfully host an unforgettable baby shower, consider utilizing some of these clever ideas:
Games and Activities
If you’re eager for an invigorating activity, consider trying out a game! There are countless options available, from classic board games to card games and trivia; even musical solos can be exciting if planned correctly!
For example, if you’d like to share some time with friends over a favorite outdoor outing or delightful ambiance, consider throwing together a picnic. Alternatively you could play hostess by planning a party featuring all their favorite foods!
Gift Giving
If you’re wondering what to give, I’ve got you covered! This is usually where people feel they don’t have much to give, so making it an event with all the guests gathers gifts can add extra meaning and significance while also providing more choices.
Give the gift of choice! Create a registry or serve as a hostess for your partner’s baby shower and delegate tasks that require some time so that everyone involved has options. Alternatively, create a list of items that could be brought which allows for spontaneity and flexibility during gifting – who doesn’t want that?!
Enlist family and friends to craft thoughtful gifts from home. You will not only evoke fond memories but also stress less about selecting out-of-the-box things like clothing or decorations when it is already known that these people hold dear tradition.
Food and Drinks
How will you all celebrate the occasion? Will there be a sit-down dinner or perhaps an elaborate brunch? Perhaps an array of finger foods and dips are more up your alley! Whatever your preference, don’t forget to consider all aspects while planning menus beforehand.
If you plan on hiring a caterer, then make sure they offer meals that cater to vegans, vegetarians and those following gluten free diets. If you’re on a budget – don’t stress! You can always partake in an economical option like what one guest did last month: utilizing a ‘bring-your-own’ food invitation and requesting dishes prepared without animal products and/or dairy products.
Consider using an app like Foodavocado as well as other online resources for planning out any type of cuisine. They provide recipes free from dairy, meat and eggs; as well as suggestions for both vegan and vegetarian options for any event!
Creating a Registry
Don’t forget to register for baby items! Registering for a registry is simple; all you have to do is visit one of the websites that offer online registries.
If you don’t want to register, don’t fret – there are still plenty of options available. Some popular choices include Amazon Wish Lists and Baby Registry Apps.
Hosting Etiquette
When inviting a long distance guest to your baby shower, you are creating an intimate gathering for family and friends. To ensure that everyone remains comfortable during this process, we recommend adhering to some common rules of engagement; such as invite guests to your baby shower at least one month in advance so they have ample opportunity to make travel arrangements.
Planning a Surprise Long Distance Baby Shower
Breaking the news of a pregnancy can be an exciting time for both you and your partner, however if there are any plans for guests to attend an event like this one then it’s important to consider what will occur beforehand.
Although it may seem prudent to keep some aspects of planning a baby shower under wraps from even close friends, its incumbent upon you to ensure that all participants are aware of the impending event.
Preparing for the Day of the Baby Shower
On the day of your baby shower, you might feel overwhelmed by tasks, however don’t forget that there is a distinct order for each one. On average, expect to devote about two hours in total to the event!
Start by greeting guests and providing them with refreshments. If you’re hosting an intimate gathering in your home with only a few close friends from afar – you could provide food or beverages as their gift to express affection towards your new arrival.
On the other hand, if you are inviting family members and close acquaintances to a larger celebration – provide them with bite-sized snacks which they can take with them when finished.
Post-Shower Thank You’s and Follow-Up
The aftermath of the shower is when you’ll have the opportunity to say thank you and express your gratitude towards the guests who helped make it such a success.
For those attending the party, consider offering them a gift or sending one along with a card message; while for those present but not able to attend – whether due to distance or other reasons – perhaps make time in their schedule so that they may be able to attend in person at some point in the future!
Long Distance Baby Shower Alternatives
If you’re planning a baby shower but can’t gather in person, don’t fret! Long distance baby showers are becoming increasingly popular, and there are plenty of virtual options available. Online baby showers can be just as special and memorable as traditional ones, and they offer the added convenience of allowing guests from all over the world to attend.
There are several platforms that can be used to host a virtual event, such as Zoom, Skype, or Google Meet. You can also create a virtual baby shower registry and send out invitations through email or social media.
To make the event more interactive, consider playing games such as virtual bingo or trivia. You can even send out party favors to guests ahead of time, so they can feel like they’re a part of the celebration. With a little creativity and planning, a long distance baby shower can be just as joyous and unforgettable as an in-person one.
Conclusion
Planning a baby shower well ahead of time is an excellent idea, especially if added complications such as a long distance relationship arise. It affords you time to prepare and mitigate any potential stressors – freeing up precious resources in your life when it comes time for festivities!
Ultimately, this decision should be made on the basis of what’s best for you and your spouse’s needs. If one of you will require regular assistance with feeding or bonding with their child while residing away from home, then perhaps making arrangements at a more advanced stage is advisable.
