Times are tough, but having a baby is a big deal, so when it’s time for your best friend, sister, cousin, or colleague to deliver, you don’t want to short change her on a shower.
Fortunately, there are ways to save on baby showers, despite society’s push to host elaborate bashes for the expectant mom. Forget about renting a hall, having a catered spread, and hiring a DJ. Rather, stick to the basics and keep those baby shower costs under control.
Your frugality doesn’t have to mean hosting a cheap affair. You can still have a shower to remember without breaking the bank by following these simple tips:
Ask for help: Even if you are the one who came up with the shower idea, there is no shame in asking if someone would be willing to co-host. A co-host will reduce your costs by half. Or, get your guests involved in the party planning. Use their talents to help come up with affordable games, decorations and party favors. In addition, you could host a potluck and have everyone bring a dish to pass. If even a few of your guests can bring food, that can help the budget tremendously.
Affordable games: There’s no reason to go overboard in the games department when there are a slew of inexpensive shower games to choose from. Baby-themed Pictionary is a favorite frugal shower game. Simply buy two large drawing pads and some markers and have your guests use baby-themed words, e.g. (wet diaper, breastfeeding, and colic) as part of the game.
Easy treats: Instead of buying expensive parting gifts for your guests, consider having them make their own goodies. The following edible craft project is ideal for baby showers. Simply place all of the ingredients on a large table and have your guests sit and craft together:
EDIBLE PACIFIERS
Ingredients:
1/4 cup vanilla frosting
24 candy coated wafers
24 jellybeans
24 peppermint Lifesavers
8 feet of ribbon (1/8-inch) cut into 4-inch pieces
Directions:
Place pea size amount of frosting on the rounded side of each candy wafer.
Place a jellybean upright in the frosting. Let stand a few minutes until it sets.
Place the wafers jellybean side down on wire rack with jellybeans between wires.
Carefully place another pea size amount of frosting on flat side of each candy wafer.
Position a Lifesaver on the edge in the frosting.
Let stand for at least an hour.
Tie a ribbon through each Lifesaver.
Makes 24 pacifiers.
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