Choosing the right foods for the baby shower can be a stressful predicament. Choices concerning baby shower menus are just a few that you'll need to make. If you are opting to do the food yourself rather than catering, understand that some work will be involved. Having the right menu for the occasion can add to the success of the shower.

Guest List

Consider the number of guests that will attend. Decide how much money to budget for the food. If you have more than 50 guests coming, you probably will not want to fork over a ton of money for caviar and wine. However, if it is a small gathering of a few close friends and family members, then splurging on the menu, a bit, probably won't hurt.

Regarding your guests, the number is not the only thing to think about. You should also consider the palates of those attending. If they are used to fine cuisine, you will not want to break out the hot dogs and potato salad. However, if the shower will be more laid back with people attending who enjoy eating that type of foods, then it would be more appropriate.

Budget

Another consideration for planning baby shower menus is the amount of money you are working with. This is directly related to the number of people you need to feed. If you are tight on the money, it may be best to limit the menu to cake along with two to three other foods. This provides a bit of variety for the guests while still keeping things affordable. Finger foods such as pigs in a blanket, nuts, and chips work well for those that cannot spend a great deal on the food.

Effort

Consider the amount of effort you want to put in. If you will be preparing most of the food, you may be on time constraints. Therefore, it is best to choose recipes and options that do not require a lot of time. Things that can be cooking while you prepare other things such as Brownies and pies can help you save time when getting other foods ready for the special event.

The Guest of Honor

Think about the favorite foods that the mom-to-be enjoys. Is there something that she has been craving the entire pregnancy that she would love to have at her special event? If so, consider making this dish for her. After all, the baby shower is there to celebrate the parents as well as the pending arrival. You can make the day more special by preparing foods that she likes.

Planning a baby shower may take a great deal of preparation and work, especially when considering which foods to serve. Hopefully, these guidelines will help you prepare a spread that everyone will enjoy.