How To Host A Virtual Baby Shower
When we think of baby showers, we typically imagine a group of a dozen or so close relatives and friends all gathered together celebrating the approaching bundle of joy!. Although celebrations around the world can be postponed- some things can’t be postponed- like the birth of a baby! Due to Covid-19, your in-person baby shower plans have probably changed or even postponed, but let’s face it, one of the best parts of the baby shower is getting some gifts that you are in dire need of day 1 of the baby’s arrival. We are coming up with solutions to mom’s to be so you can still celebrate the upcoming arrival.
Connecting Family and Friends to celebrate your baby shower.
We’ve collected all of the best ideas to help you plan your online Virtual Baby Shower!
When we think of baby showers, we typically imagine a group of a dozen or so close relatives and friends all gathered together celebrating the approaching bundle of joy! Although celebrations around the world can be postponed- some things can’t be- like the birth of a baby! Due to Covid-19, your in-person baby shower plans have probably changed or even canceled, but let’s face it, one of the best parts of the baby shower is getting some gifts that you are in dire need of day 1 of the baby’s arrival. We are coming up with solutions for mom’s to be so you can still celebrate the upcoming arrival.
Introducing the virtual baby shower. That’s right: virtual. All online, no matter the distance. The concept of virtual baby showers is not new, we have been including our loved ones who can’t be there for some time now by virtually. having them on video chat here and there. The difference is now it is just not Aunt Becky in Georgia, it is pretty much everyone that will need to attend online. So it takes a bit more organization and effort so it’s enjoyable for everyone.
What is a Virtual Baby Shower?
Virtual or online baby showers are generally the same concept and usually will happen before the baby arrives The difference is you will only have one or two people attending in person with you vs. 10 or 20, and more than likely, they are living in the house. Once the baby is born, it is a great time to have Virtual Sip and See, which we will cover in a later post.
We should acknowledge mom-to-be’s feelings now- a virtual shower isn’t going to totally replace the one you have been dreaming and planning since you found out you were expecting. This situation isn’t normal, so if you are feeling a bit down or disappointed—it is ok, that’s normal. It will be different, but that does not mean you can’t celebrate, register, have a theme, open gifts, play games, and everything else you dreamed of!
If you are thinking of taking your baby shower virtual, here’s our expert guidance on how to pull off an amazing and unique virtual baby shower.
Who Hosts a Virtual Baby Shower?
The nice thing about Virtual Showers is the rules are thrown out on hosting. Here are FOUR options
1) The expecting parents to host their own shower. Start planning your shower for free at LYFETYMES, -everything you need in one place to plan any party or shower.
2. You can also have a close friend or family member help you host.
3. But even if your Co-host or Co-Hosts live far away, it’s still totally possible to coordinate via LYFETYMES, since the party is entirely virtual anyway and you can be added as Guest Of Honor.
4. Check out our LYFETYMES Vendor Marketplace to find party services such as event planning, balloon stylist, photography, catering, and more.
Steps to Hosting a Successful Virtual Baby Shower
Virtual Showers can still be festive and engaging. It does not just have to be a Face-time call, you can make it as memorable as you want, but if you want it to be as successful as possible, then it does require some planning and effort. Here is a quick rundown of how to get it done!
Start Planning Your Party at LYFETYMES -It is a free one-stop-shop for all thing parties.
No more Paper Invites-Create your Free Party Website to text/email to guests to RSVP to your party, you can add a virtual party link, so all they have to do click and party with you! Digital invitations are super popular and totally boring. At LYFETYMES, you can create your Shower Website in a few clicks, add links to your registry and personalize with any picture or short video. Guests can RSVP and get all the party details from your site and just simply click on the virtual party link when it is Shower time! We also have Digital Thank you’s you can email once the shower wraps.
Add an easy registry link for guests to send gifts to your door! Including a registry is a great way to receive cash or gifts directly.
Determine where in the house, backyard, or space you will use for the party, a fun backdrop can be great for gift opening, a central focus of the room for photos. Zoom just launched backgrounds you can add to virtual call which is fun or you don’t want to worry about decorating.
Determine Theme and Decor and order to your door ahead of time there are a ton of delivery solutions, like yard signs, food, cake, and balloons that can be dropped outside your door. Tableware isn’t really necessary. Streamers and balloons? Definitely be camera-ready. Check out the best Balloon Bar we have found yet here.
Make an agenda, especially for your video call - make sure you have put some thought into the shower flow- the last thing you want is a boring virtual party with no structure!
Cue The Music! Get in the mood with our favorite Baby Shower Songs here!
Drinks! Check out the Parents 20 Fun Baby Shower Cocktails and Mocktails Recipes.
The Tech- Video Chat Services
There are lots of solutions out there to choose from, we recommend going with a free video service like Zoom, Skype, Facebook messenger rooms, or Google Hangouts. As long as you and your guests have an internet connection and a phone or computer with a webcam, then they can join. These are the top four easiest video solutions we have found:
Zoom: Zoom is free for everyone to use, allows up to 100 connected devices (500 for an extra charge), and doesn’t require you to download an app, though there is an app option. All you need is an internet connection and a web browser (you can use a computer, tablet, or smartphone). The host sets up a virtual room with a unique ID and password, then sends out the information to guests. Guests don’t need an account to gain access to the party. Keep in mind: The free version of Zoom allows up to 40 minutes of meeting time per room; additional time is available for purchase, but you can also close out the room and start a new one, with that said, if some of your guests are not technical, this could prove to be trying exercise. Additionally, Zoom has come under fire lately for privacy concerns, but they claim they’re taking measures to increase security.
Facebook Messenger Rooms- Facebook is launching this feature to compete with Zoom. Messenger Rooms make it easy to spend quality time with friends, loved ones, and people who share your interests. Create a room right from Messenger or Facebook, and invite anyone to join your video call, even if they don’t have a Facebook account. Rooms will soon hold up to 50 people with no time limit. Facebook plans to add ways to create Rooms from Instagram Direct, WhatsApp, and Portal as well. Features will include 14 camera filters and changeable backgrounds.
Google Hangouts: This service only works if you have a Google/Gmail account, which is free and fairly easy to sign up for. Google Hangout video calls allow a maximum of 10 devices, but up to 250 participants if the call is audio/phone only. They just launched the tile view comparable to Zoom and planning on adding noise-canceling features.
Skype: One of the most well known and been around a while. Skype is free to use on any computer, tablet, or mobile device, and it doesn’t require you to download the app if you’re using a computer web browser. The key differences: it allows up to 50 devices, and there’s no password protection.
Gift Opening at a Virtual Baby Shower
So with any Virtual Celebration, we suggest you flip around the traditional agenda! People love to see their gifts opened and you want to keep the shower engaging and not everyone can stay on for over an hour so start your first activity with drinks and gifts! You open the gifts sent to you (because you provided the information on your LYFETYMES Guest Website) on camera for everyone to see. Or you can have guests hold onto their gifts during the shower and open them for you on camera so you can see (then they can send them to you later). Or you can do a combination of both! We are seeing delays in shipping due to Covid-19, so the earlier you plan and get the word out, the better!
Virtual Baby Shower Games
You can still have a ton of fun playing Baby Shower Games with your guests- but keep it simple!
The Price Is Right: Have guests take a moment to fill out a card with their best guesses for the price of each item as they join. Toward the end of the shower go through the list and the person with the closest price of each item scored one point. The guest with the most points won bragging rights! Get copies of the game card that you can download and print for free HERE from https://realhousemoms.com/ Tip: Look up prices ahead of time!
Baby Bingo- Everyone loves bingo—and when it’s baby-themed, it’s even better. Use these printable bingo cards to get the party going when the mom-to-be opens presents. Instructions: Have Guests print out bingo cards ahead of time. Each gift that the mom-to-be opens at the shower becomes a clue for bingo. You can download a free set of 24 Bingo Cards to print HERE.
If you are wanting to be more adventurous, check out our How To Throw A Drive-By Baby Shower article here!
Virtual Happy Hour Cocktail Guide
You're invited to a Virtual Happy Hour!
With the kids being home during this Pandemic, we could all use a break now and then. Take a sip, sit back, and catch up with some of your best friends through Livestream. We have put together some delicious and simple Vocktail -Virtual Cocktail- recipes for a fun night to unwind while practicing social distancing.
The Happy Hour Guide
by Carmen Lopez
You're invited to a Virtual Happy Hour!
With the kids being home during this Pandemic, we could all use a break now and then. Take a sip, sit back, and catch up with some of your best friends through Livestream. We have put together some delicious and simple Vocktail -Virtual Cocktail- recipes for a fun night to unwind while practicing social distancing.
Step One:
Choose your platform. The best part of a virtual party is the guests. Picking a platform that works best for everyone is crucial. With the growing technology, there are plenty of options like Zoom, FaceTime, Skype, and Google Hangouts. Though they all are used for the same thing, each platform has its unique features, so make sure to do your research before going with one.
Step Two:
Now, this is the fun part! Choose your Quarantine Cocktail of choice.
Mango Rita
This Margarita concoction is one of my personal favorites. Super easy to make, and the mango adds the perfect touch. You will need:
Ice
A fresh mango- diced
Mango juice (I use Jumex- Mango Nectar)
Lime juice
Tequila of choice (I used Silver Tequila)
Jalapeno slices – OPTIONAL (if you want to add some spice)
Chili powder and salt for rim
To start, grab a shaker, add the mango slices and jalapenos (optional), add lime juice, and muddle together.
Add ice
Pour in ½- 2 oz. of tequila
Add 3- 4 oz. of mango juice
Add ½ of lime, juiced
Shake it all up
In a plate mix together chili powder and salt for rim
Dress rim on the glass, add some more ice and pour in your mixture.
If you don't want to add the muddled mango and jalapeno(optional) slices, make sure to strain when pouring. You can add diced mango to glass as well as sliced jalapeno slices if desired. If you're a mango lover, this is the perfect drink for you.
White Claw Sangria
By now I'm sure everyone has heard of White Claws. If not, they are flavored Seltzers and millennials drink of choice. It turns out you can make any drink with a White Claw in place of club soda. This Cocktail is excellent for a Virtual Brunch with the usual Brunch squad.
What you'll need:
One bottle of dry white wine (I chose Pinot Grigio)
Apple Cider
A Raspberry White Claw
Raspberries, to taste (you can select a variety of fruits)
Orange Liqueur (Triple Sec, Cointreau)
How to make it:
Combine apple cider, raspberries, Rasberry White Claw, orange liqueur, and a bottle of wine.
You can also add apple slices and a cinnamon stick to garnish.
You can cover it up and refrigerate for 4 hours up to two days to mix to let all the ingredients infuse together.
Serve chilled.
The next three cocktail recipes are courtesy of @JessieJamesDecker on Instagram. Watch her IGTV to see how easy these recipes are to make.
The Quarantini
To create the Quarantini, you will need:
Ice
Your favorite glass
The sparkling water of choice- (The original recipe used La Croix Berry flavored.)
Pedialyte of choice- (the original method used grape flavor.)
One sugar packet (or sugar substitute)
One lemon
Red wine of choice
Now that you have all the ingredients, lets put it together.
Fill glass with ice and red wine.
Add flavored sparkling water.
Top off with Pedialyte
Finish with sugar (or sugar substitute)
Lemon to taste
Mix all together and ta-da!
The Quaranita
To create this Margarita with a twist, you will need:
· Two oranges
· Lime juice
· Salt for the rim
· Tequila of choice (I used Silver tequila)
· Ice
· Two squirts of agave nectar
Now, lets put the mix together. For this Margarita recipe, you will need a shaker.
Fill shaker with ice
Squeeze one orange into shaker
Add four shots of tequila
Add five tablespoons of lime juice
Mix in the Agave (you can always add more to taste)
Shake it all up
With a slice of your second orange rub it around the rim and salt rim
Add a bit more ice to the glass
Pour in the mixture from the shaker and add orange slices to glass for garnish
Beware this drink packs a punch, but tasty. You can always substitute ingredients to your liking.
The Quarantea
What's better than a nice mason jar full of iced sweet Tea on a hot day? Not much, but this twisted tea cocktail is a close second. You will need:
Simple syrup (if Tea is unsweet)
Vodka -of choice
Rum- of choice
Lemon juice
Ice
Iced Tea- of choice- (black iced Tea was used for original recipe)
Lemon slices or mint leaves for garnish
Get your ingredients together, grab your mason jars, and let's get to mixing.
Fill a cup with ice
Add an ounce of Vodka
Add a splash of Rum
Add a splash of Simple Syrup (if Tea is unsweet)
Add a splash of lemon juice
Top it off with Iced Tea
Add your lemon slices and Enjoy!
This Quarantea might be not only your Virtual Cocktail favorite but also your drink of choice for the summer.
Step Three:
Get dressed up to set the party mood. Put on a pair of new clothes that you have bought online during the quarantine. A Virtual Cocktail Party is the perfect excuse to serve some looks online.
Step Four:
Enjoy yourself! You deserve this moment to yourself. Share some laughs and cheers your friends with your Vocktails. If your group is feelings some fun games, check out (Virtual Party Games Blog.) For some fun ideas.
What will be your first Virtual Celebration?
So At-Home and Virtual Parties can still be festive and engaging. It does not just have to be a Face-time call, you can make it as memorable as you want and it is important to celebrate those milestones and recognize they have been accomplished. You can plan for free at LYFETYMES or if you don’t have the time or non-technical, check out the LYFETYMES Vendor Marketplace to find party services to help you plan, style, and more for your next event.
7 Must-Try Virtual Party Games
So you've settled on hosting a virtual celebration but have no idea what to do during the live stream? What about a few party games to keep things fun! Check out these five completely VIRTUAL party games with little to no prep work!
7 Must-Try Virtual Party Games
By April Sharer and Carmen Lopez
So you've settled on hosting a virtual celebration but have no idea what to do during the live stream? What about a few party games to keep things fun! Check out these five completely VIRTUAL party games with little to no prep work!
1. Two Truths and a Lie
Two Truths and a Lie is the perfect ice breaker for a virtual party! It can be played with any number of people. As the host, ask guests to prepare two truthful statements about themselves and one lie. Each person in the group gets a turn. When it Is your turn, tell the group two things about yourself that are true and one untrue thing (your lie). Be sure not to say both of your truths first and then the lie because that makes it easier to guess. Mix the order up each time it is your turn. Everyone in the group has an opportunity to try to guess which statement was the lie. Once everyone in the group has guessed, the person will reveal what was true and what was false. The person that answered correctly can go next. This game can go around as many times as you would like or so that everyone gets a chance to go once. You might learn some surprising things about your party guests!
2. Charades
Most everyone knows the rules to this game, so little explaining will be necessary! For those that are unsure how to play, virtually Charades requires the player to mime or imitate a specific action or subject that the rest of the team has to figure out. Direct your guest to a word generator for their word. Taking turns, each guest acts out the word from the generator as all other guests shout out their guesses. This tried, and true party game will be a favorite at your virtual celebration!
3. Minute to Win It Challenges
Minute to Win It started as a game show where contestants had to complete a task using household items in less than a minute to move on. It is now becoming a simple but fun party game. As the host, come up with a list of challenges that can be completed with everyday household objects. It might be a good idea to send out a supply list for each guest before the party to help guests prepare. Also, to ensure that everyone can be included in the challenges. Frugal Fun 4 Boys is another great resource.
Man Vs. Clock
In this version, one player will be trying to beat the clock for each challenge you created. They will have to complete that challenge within a minute. It's best for you to keep track of the time on your end. For this game, I recommend choosing a different person for each challenge. You could also divide your guests into teams.
MINUTE TO WIN IT FOR TEAMS
Split guests into teams. For every game, choose one player from each team to go head to head. For example, one person from each team will be given the list of supplies and game instructions. When you say go, the first players to compete will start the challenge. The first team to complete the challenge receives a point. The guest or team that accomplishes the most challenges wins! These games are fun, inexpensive, and typically hilarious!
4. Thumper
This game will keep you on your toes and get your brain working! Each guest chooses a silly face or hand gesture as their "symbol." The host can choose to be the leader and start the game or pick a guest to lead. Make sure every guest shares their Symbol with the party. The leader then performs their Symbol, immediately followed by the Symbol of another player. This player then performs their own gesture, followed by another player’s gesture. Symbols continue to be passed from guest to guest until someone responds too slowly or misses their cue. To take this up a notch when someone makes a mistake, everyone must drink, and that person then becomes the leader for the next round.
5. Most Likely To
This casual game is fun to play with a group of longtime friends. Take turns creating "Most likely to ________" statements and ask guests to cast their votes using the chat function on the video call. The person with the most votes can take a drink or do a dare. There are no winners or losers in this game, but should definitely be shared laughs! You can have guests download the Most Likely To app on the App Store, or come up with your own. Beware the app is 18+.
6. Spin A Tale
This game promotes creativity and will have guests thinking on their feet. To start the game, make up the first line of a story. Then choose a guest to add a line to your sentence. Members take turns adding to the story until the whole plot develops! Let the story go along on its own route, that is what makes the game fun; you never know what each guest is going to add and where the story will end up.
Here are some ways you can start your tale…
· Today I woke up at 8 a.m. and saw….
· Sofia woke up on the couch this morning and tried to remember how she got there…
· I was supposed to have a virtual meeting today, but…
· When I looked outside my window, I saw…
· Today during quarantine, I started discovered my hidden talent…
7. Online Games
I'm sure you've heard of JackboxTV offering plenty of games to play online. However, besides Drawful2, most of the games have to be purchased to play them. Playingcards.io offers free card games that can be played virtually with your guests. They have also added an online version of Cards Against Humanity.
Feeling overwhelmed with party planning? Check out our LYFETYMES Vendor Marketplace to take the stress away. Find vendors that offer party planning, decor, catering, photography services, and more.
Host an Awesome Drive-By Baby Shower
Honk If You're Having A Baby!
Having a Baby Shower is part of the excitement when becoming new parents. With the Coronavirus and Stay At Home order in place around the world. Many of these special celebrations are being canceled. Unfortunately, pregnancies cannot be rescheduled. These are milestones that need to be celebrated because we will never get them back.
Plan A Drive-By Baby Shower Ideas
by Liz Grisham and Carmen Lopez
Honk If You're Having A Baby!
Having a Baby Shower is part of the excitement when becoming new parents. With the Corona virus and Stay-At-Home order in place around the world, many of these special celebrations are being canceled. Unfortunately, pregnancies cannot be rescheduled. These are milestones that need to be celebrated because we will never get them back.
From drive-by celebrations to virtual ones, people around the world are getting creative on ways to continue the celebrations. Drive-By Baby Showers won't replace traditional ones, but they will make the expecting parents feel loved. Read on to discover how to plan the ultimate Drive-By Baby Shower Parade.
How or Where to Set Up?
Depending on the neighborhood and if you have a driveway available, set a time and date for friends and family to line up their cars and drive by your house. If you are living in an apartment complex, schedule a meet up at an empty parking lot where you can wave at your guests from afar. It could be a church lot or school parking lot. Decorate your driveway or car trunk with balloons and garland. Grab a chair, kick back and be ready to feel the love as friends and family greet you with honks and cheers.
Layout some fun printable games like baby bingo and baby word scramble, and your guests can fill them out or take home to play together virtually through a Livestream. You can find some fun baby shower printables at The Spruce.
We can't forget the gifts, so make sure to set up a spot for guests to drop off gifts.
Expectant mothers are not only anticipating the arrival of their little ones, but they are panicking about being prepared for their little love. The stores are bare, and necessities have become hard to find at times. Help the mom-to-be stock up on essentials such as diapers, wipes, sanitizer, and food, so everyone is staying safe at home
Shower Me With Love Baby Shower Parade
How many can say they've had a parade for their baby shower? Not many!
Getting all loved ones involved by having them decorate their cars for a drive-by parade is an exciting way to celebrate in these crazy times. Your loved ones will be even more excited to drop off their gifts when they get to see the visuals you have been spending hours planning on Pinterest. Get everyone even more involved by holding a fun prize for the winner of the best-decorated car, and it will make their drive-by appearance feel even more special! Gift cards make for good prizes and will be easy to mail out to the winners. They are also a great way to support your local businesses at this time.
How To Plan A Drive-By Baby Shower or Parade
Here is a quick rundown of how to get it done!
Start Planning Your Party at LYFETYMES -It’s a FREE Party Planning and Free Guest Websites for all thing parties.
No more Paper Invites or boring e-invitations-Create your Free Party Website to text/email to guests to RSVP to your party, you can add a virtual party link, so all they have to do click and party with you! Add a Picture or Video to capture guests’ attention!
Title Your Party “Drive-By Baby Shower” Make the location of your party your house and explain in the comments section of your Website guests should drive by the location.
Add an easy registry link for guests to buy gifts to drop off at your door! Including a registry is a great way to get what you want and need.
Have a “Drop Station” and decorate it so they know. Fun to add yard signs, balloons, decorate a porch, add garage door banners, or decorate your front door.
Set up your social distance spot, where you can wave, say hello, and thank them
Get Your Guests involved- have a contest of best-decorated car, sign or custom.
Video yourself opening gifts or host a Virtual Gift Opening Happy Hour so guests can enjoy seeing you open gifts.
Hosting a Drive-By Baby Shower probably wasn't what you pictured your celebrations were going to be like, but it's a great way to overcome the circumstances. Nothing will make you feel more showered with love then your friends and family making time and coming out of their shelters to celebrate your growing family.
Need Help Planning a Drive-By Shower or Parade, visit our LYFETYMES Vendor Marketplace or plan for free at LYFETYMES.com