Hosting a baby shower for close friends and loved ones is always a fun and enjoyable experience for everyone involved. However, there are some potential situations where a baby shower can be stressful. In order to help you avoid some of these things, there are some key questions that need to be answered. Below are some frequently asked questions and details:

Hosting the Baby Shower - So…who's supposed to host? It is very common for a wide range of friends or relatives to host your shower. Very often you see several people combining their efforts to organize the event including sisters, mothers, friends and other relatives can (and should) be involved. This helps to make the planning go smoother and have your baby shower invitations made.

When is it Thrown? - 2-3 months prior to the due date is a pretty good guideline to use for the actual event. You'll likely want to start the planning 3 months or so prior to the actual shower date to allow for plans and travel arrangement for your guests. Planning ahead also gives time to create the gift registry.

Invitations - There are a wide range of options for your invitations from Designer Stationery to Handmade to Self Made. Personal Stationery is a great way to set the theme for the shower. Getting these made after the dates have been nailed down is probably the first thing you'll want to do.

Welcome Parties - These are baby showers that take place after the child is born. Though not too common, these types of parties usually happen if the mom to be is out of the country or incapacitated in some way prior to giving birth. These usually take place 1-3 months after the birth.

Shower Location - Most modern baby showers are held at the home of the host but can really be held anywhere. Restaurants, parks, hotels, churches and private rooms are all suitable for the event. Some of the things that should be kept in mind when throwing your party at an "alternative" location are of course, costs and the potential for bad weather.

Throwing a Surprise Shower - If you're looking for something a bit less "traditional", a surprise baby shower can add some additional excitement. It is important to keep in mind however if you are planning a surprise party, that it can be a bit overwhelming for some moms-to-be and especially those who are experiencing difficult pregnancies.

What About Men? - Though not a traditional gues at baby showers, men are being included more and more. This will likely change the atmosphere that you might find at a traditional shower but, depending on the group, can be a fun alternative. Some prefer to have the men arrive for only the latter portion of the shower after the girls have had time to celebrate with the soon to be mommy.