Recently, I threw a baby shower for a dear friend -- while low-key and low on cost, it was HIGH on style. In response to a reader request (yes, that's you Jen), I decided it was a perfect time to share some ideas that won't break the bank.
PICK A THEME: For this shower, the mama-to-be was lucky enough to have the last name 'Angel'. For her little boy on the way, I thought there was nothing more appropo for this Brooklyn jetsetting mom than to make her a Hell's Angels - I mean, Harley Davidson - inspired shower. So, I enlisted the help of a graphic designer friend to make a logo for "Baby Boy Angel" that we printed on labels and applied it to the cups (who says plastic isn't chic), favor boxes, and the centerpieces.
GROCERY STORE FLOWERS: You need not spend a fortune on flowers. The trick to grocery store flowers is choosing a single bloom and a single color. Carnations are my favorite for this strategy: they are cheap, cheap, but when packed together in square glass vases or galvanized buckets (I bought these for $5 a piece at the local hardware/landscaping store), they look anything but flimsy. Tulips and spider mums are also great, economical choices. I did these in hot pink for a bridal shower.
GET CRAFTY: My favorite trick is the "wrapping paper runner". I did not invent it, but I certainly introduce it at all my kids' parties and impromptu showers/dinners. For an 8 foot table, it usually takes one-to-two regular rolls of paper (make sure it's a thick paper stock so it doesn't rip). Cut it straight down the center vertically, and secure it to a paper or plastic tablecloth with double-sided tape. Redstamp.com is an amazing source for chic wrapping paper.THE POWER OF PLASTIC: Do not underestimate the power of plastic goods. Yes, they're not exactly "green" (but you can find disposable eco-friendly party supplies at plumparty.com). But they are good on the bottomline. The trick is to pick a color and pay attention to shapes. Party City and Party Fair carry a myriad of colors, and I LOVE this turquoise.
Other inspiring themes? Cravings shower (I did Pickles N Ice Cream); Bubble Bath Brunch (with Rubber Duckie placecards, wash cloth napkins, and clear crystal balls on a tray for a centerpiece); or, Candyland with apothecary jars filled with candy in a color that doubles as centerpiece AND favor.
