Arranging any function, whether it is a baby shower or a wedding, requires a lot of effort in a systematic manner. Improper planning may result in last minute running around while having to ignore the guests. Instead, efficient time management and step-by-step organization of the occasion will surely result in a successful event. There are so many things that should be considered before planning a baby shower, like the food, invitations, decorations, and finances. Here's an easy guide to the checklist that will enable you to host a memorable event. Basic Planning Before you start with any other preparations, finalize the date, time and venue of the event. This should be done at least two months before the day of celebration. The date and time should be convenient for the expectant mother and also other guests. If you want to arrange a co-ed baby shower, make sure you have consulted the to-be-mom. Some women may not be comfortable if male guests are present. Then, make a list of guests with the expectant mother's help. Make sure you jot down the address details of all the guests and then decide the location such that it will be convenient for all. Food Arrangements Plan the menu with help of the expectant parents. Ask them what their favorite food is, or what they would like to serve to their guests. Preparation of the food will depend on the number of guests, type of food, and most importantly, the budget. If the menu is simple and there are less number of guests, you can always prepare the food by yourself. For a large variety of food and more guests, you can hire professional caterers. If you decide on preparing the food by yourself, make sure you have bought all the required groceries a week before the event. The cake can be ordered a week before as well. Invitations The wordings, date, time, venue, RSVP, theme (if any), etc., are some of the important elements of a baby shower invitation. You can download an invitation template from a dedicated website or design it by yourself. If it's a coed event or with some specific theme, make sure you mention it in your invitation card. Do not forget to mention the name and contact number of RSVP. You can also print the map of the road to the venue on your invitation card. These invitations can be sent via e-mail too. The acknowledgment that the e-mail is received is also necessary to confirm the arrival of the guests. You must ensure that these are sent at least 2 to 3 weeks before the event. Favors Baby shower party favors are necessary to appreciate the arrival of the guests at the event. It is a token of love for the guests, since they spared their precious time to attend the function. These favors can be handmade or they can be store-bought depending on your budget. Baby key-chains, homemade cookies, thank you cards, and photo frames are some of the baby shower favors. You will have to arrange these for all the invitees and it should not fall short in supply. Decorations The venue should be decorated a day before the event. If you have the baby shower at your home, you can decorate the venue the way you want it. In case it is arranged at some restaurant, then you may have to ask the concerned authority regarding the decoration. If the celebration is based on a theme, the decorations will change accordingly. Make sure you have all the decoration supplies like, diaper cake, balloons, flowers, confetti, etc. a day before the event. Also ensure that you have all the supplies required for the centerpieces. If you are arranging games, then plan the games a week before the event and keep the required supplies ready.