While it’s common to have a friend or family member arrange your baby shower for you, that doesn’t mean you can’t throw one yourself or help in the planning or budgeting. When you determine how much money you have to spend, you can begin to map out a plan for the event: from how many people to invite, to how much to spend on party supplies, including food and drink.

Your location helps determine how many people you can invite (how many can fit in the space?) and whether it’s a casual or more formal affair.

Once you decide on a baby shower theme, you can start working on your invitations, gathering decorations, selecting food and beverages and planning activities that fit that theme. There are so many cute and creative baby shower ideas to play with!

To help your guests choose baby shower gifts, register at shops that offer a wide range of baby products. Make sure you register for essential items as well as higher-priced items, so that your guests can purchase items individually or purchase a larger item as a group.

Ask key invitees (like grandparents) about their upcoming conflicts before setting a date. If you’re hosting for a loved one, ask them for a list of guests to invite.

You can mail traditional paper invitations, send an online invite or get creative! Pacifiers or rattles can serve as a cute substitute; attach a tag with all of the details. If there’s a gift registry, make sure to include the registry details in the invitation.

Purchase decorations and disposable utensils (for a casual event). If you’re cooking yourself, plan a menu, and closer to the date buy the food and beverages you need. Make what you can ahead of time; freeze or refrigerate it until the day of.

The most important thing is that Mom, Dad (if he’s invited) and guests have fun. If something unexpected happens (you forgot the cake!), laugh it off. Motherhood is not about being perfect — it’s about love, and baby showers are about sharing this love with family and friends.