Drive by baby shower in cold weather

Everyone will agree that this is a complicated time in history to be expecting and bringing new life into the world. In this COVID-19 era, people are still trying to adjust to the new normal. This means that the traditional ways of doing things have been shelved for now. Typically, planning a baby shower is high on the “to-do” list for any mom-to-be. In these times of social distancing, making baby shower plans seems to be a tall order. However, new parents still require essentials for the newborn and this, after all, is the objective of a baby shower.

While social gatherings may be all but non-existent, the great news is that there are some creative ways to have a successful socially distant winter baby shower. Family and friends can still celebrate the new parents and show them the love they deserve. Many things will have to be adapted including the number of guests, food, activities, and location, but in the end, a baby shower is possible. The following are some ideas that will be helpful when planning a baby shower.

Keep The Guest List Short

Credit: Pexels/picjumbo

When planning a socially distant winter baby shower, keep the guest list short. This will help to ensure that you keep the recommended rules effectively. In most locations, you have a specified limit on the number of people who can gather together. Planning a small gathering will give you the opportunity to be with your close family and friends in a safe environment.

When arranging the seats, make sure that they are placed at least six feet apart. Being outdoors during winter is no fun so choose the largest room in the house to host the gathering. Make sure that you have firm guidelines about keeping distance.

An Online Baby Shower

Technology has made it possible for people to be together without being in the same room. When planning a virtual baby shower you need to identify the video app that you will use. You have several options including FaceTime, Zoom, Skype, or Google Hangouts. When you send out the invitations make sure that all the guests know how to access the event.

Identify someone to play host and to ensure that the event goes smoothly. Come up with different activities and games that will allow everyone to feel included. You can also create an online site or “group card” where everyone can post messages, photos, or videos for the new parents.

A Drive-By Baby Shower

You can plan an event where you can have some contact with the invited guests while maintaining some distance and remaining safe. A drive-by event works much like the ‘drive-thru’ restaurant where patrons remain in the car when ordering food.

The guests can be present physically without breaking socially distancing rules. The invitations should include information to ensure that everyone adheres to the social distancing and mask-wearing rules. Indicate the time when the guests can drive by.

Photo by Elsa Salinas Gómez from Pexels

A Shower By Appointment

Another simple idea for a socially distant baby shower is planning an event by appointment. The party host can arrange to have the guests visiting by appointment either individually or in groups of not more than four. This means that guests can visit with the parents-to-be for a specified time.

Having 15- or 20-minute slots for each guest will help to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to hang out with the new mom. Make sure that the guests follow social distancing rules and keep plenty of sanitizer on hand.

Organize A Group Gift

In lieu of a physical baby shower, you can organize a special group gift. A group of friends or family can come together to organize a special gift for the mom-to-be. Chipping in for a maternity photo shoot, fancy dinner or a spa day is a great way to make the mom feel special. You can also organize for everyone to send gifts over a specific period, maybe over a one-week period. The parents-to-be will certainly enjoy receiving surprise gifts every day.

When planning the event, the first thing you should do is to understand the CDC guidelines. Find out the regulations in place for events and gatherings in your state or city. Some states have eased some of the restrictions while others still have strict lockdown rules. There may be strict rules that are specific to your location and you need to keep this in mind. When you understand the rules, you can determine whether to have a small gathering or to plan a virtual baby shower.

NEXT: Buying A Baby Shower Gift On A Budget: Tips & Ideas

Sources: marthastewart.com, connecticutchildrens.org, onehangrymama.com, babydoppler.com, babylist.com,