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Baby and new child showers are usually scheduled in the early afternoon, for about two hours—enough time for visiting with guests, a few refreshments, opening gifts, and sometimes games.
The menu can be matched to the time of day, but lighter fare is the norm.
BEVERAGES: Serve iced tea or lemonade, or make non-alcoholic punch or spritzers with a pretty fruit garnish (wine based spritzers, bubbly like Champagne and Prosecco, and even sangria can also be options but check with the honoree(s) first).
NIBBLES: Nuts, vegetables and dip, and little tea sandwiches make a great (and classic) start. Bite-size hors d'oeuvres (buy them frozen and just heat them up) such as spanakopita and mushroom quiches are often a hit. If you want to lean into some heavier fare, meat skewers, lettuce wraps, quiches or other baked egg dishes are good options. And salads are often appreciated, both fresh vegetable, and roasted veggie and warm grain salads as well as fruit salads can be a hit. If your honoree wants heavier fare, like cookout or barbecue classics, or even pizza and hot wings, roll with it, remember this party is for them.
DESSERTS: Cupcakes are of course a popular option as are cookies, tarts, pies - basically any baked good that you or the honoree would appreciate is a great choice. You can get creative with everything from the table decor to the frosting and toppings to suit the theme of the occasion if you wish.
This advice was adapted from Great Get-Togethers: Casual Gatherings and Elegant Parties at Home by Anna Post and Lizzie Post, check out the book for more great party planning advice and don't forget this book makes for an excellent gift!