Considering Co-Ed
by Denise Kane
It's becoming common to include men - friends, spouses, relatives - on the baby shower guest list, but it does change the chemistry of the party. Gone is the traditional female bonding ritual, complete with the exchange of "labor stories" and plenty of girly "oohs" and "ahhs" over diaper rash cream. But by recognizing the important Dad role, there's lots gained, too. Just make sure that Dad is down for all the extra attention.

Great co-ed parties can revolve around a backyard barbeque; a late afternoon featuring appetizers and desserts; brunch (include a make-your-own omelet station!); even a pool party (perfect if you need to invite children, too).

There is common ground (kinda): dessert. Everyone's favorite course can become the unifying ingredient to your bash. In my experience, cupcakes are the way to go because you have so many "stuffing" options. And they can be beautifully displayed; it's like a centerpiece you can eat!

For the ladies, serve Strawberry Shortcake Cupcakes. The moist white cake is stuffed with fresh strawberries and whipped cream, topped with more whipped cream and a fresh strawberry slice. Girl heaven!

For the guys, it's all about Boston Cream Pie Stuffed Cupcakes. The rich butter cake is stuffed with vanilla or chocolate custard, then topped with the richest chocolate fudge. Yes, expect the ladies to dive into these delicious treats, too.
Denise Kane is the owner of Babe's Dessert Bar 254-4770.

courtesy of Jills Cake Creations

Choosing a Theme
"I think that the host should consult the mother-to-be about her likes and preferences before choosing a theme," suggests party planner Lori Parkinson of The Big Chill. "Base your decor on fun fabric remnants, baby clothes, wrapped gift boxes, stuffed animals, baby toys, etc.," she says.
Lori Parkinson is the owner of The Big Chill 209-1810.

Celebrate in Style
Powdered, light colors are very dated. Go bold. Popular pairings include hot pink/black and chocolate brown/turquoise.

Centerpieces should be thematic. A mini baby carriage filled with flowers is adorable.

Party favors should be unique. Try dipping fortune cookies in chocolate, then sprinkling them with pink or blue crystallized sugar.
Tips courtesy of Myra Harbour, owner of Celebrate - Planning for an Event to Remember 259-8611.

Delectible Edible Decor
No matter what the theme, a custom cake will serve two important purposes: delicious dessert and beautiful decor.
These were selected from Jill's Cake Creations 291-2332.

Santa Clarita's Favorite Gift Retailers Share their Top Baby Shower Picks

Barefoot Dreams CozyChic robes to throws from Enchanted Kids

From Barefoot Dreams CozyChic robes to throws, these are favorites of the new mom on the go. Machine washable and dryable, this gift is perfect for the new baby in the house, because it won't shrink or wrinkle and will always return to its original softness. Available in many colors.
Rochelle Cherie of Enchanted Kids 250-3308

My favorites include the Baby Briefcase. It's a great organizational tool and holds all of baby's important information. Also, Robeez and Pediped offer darling soft shoes for baby and toddler.
Kathy Allie of Cobblestone Cottage 253-0209

Polka-dot line from Rooms to Roam

We have a fabulous polka-dot line which consists of blankets, frames, piggy banks and coordinating clothing in many colors like brown/blue, pink/brown, green/brown and a few other colors. Also, I carry a jewelry line that can create any combination of words you'd like; currently a popular use are "Mommy," "Baby," "Miracle" words on silver droplets with a necklace.
Julie Mair of Rooms to Roam 259-7890

We have many items that are available online and at our shop. My favorites include the Ju-Ju-Be baby bag. Each has features like magnetic closures (Velcro wakes sleeping babies!). Twilight Turtles and Sleep Sheep from Cloud B get lots of attention at showers. A sound box tucked safely inside of Sleep Sheep lulls you to sleep with soft sounds from nature and the reassuring sound of a mother's heartbeat.
Donnie Coleman of Rooms & Blooms 287-0050

Petunia Pickle Bottom diaper bags from Madalian

Petunia Pickle Bottom diaper bags, the most beautiful and functional diaper bag on the market. Trumpette baby socks are adorable. They are a set of six infant socks that look like shoes (sneakers, mary janes, cowboy boots, etc.). Bling Bling are magnificent pacifiers that are hand embellished with Swarovski crystals and are a show stopper, sparkling like crazy!
Ede Eichmann of Madalian 799-7983

In my business the hot thing now are "baby cakes": three tiers of diapers with various products such as bottles, lotion, bibs, etc. filled in around it! Also popular is a toy box filled with baby items. Cyndee Johnson of The Treasure Basket 263-3811