Nesting parties focus on preparing your living space for your baby, making it a fun and productive gathering. Here's a comprehensive checklist to ensure your nesting party is a hit, and that you're well-prepared for the big day!
Planning and Coordination
Choose a Coordinator: A close friend or family member usually takes the lead. They'll coordinate with the expecting parents to choose a date and time, send out invitations, and organize food and supplies.
Create a Task Board: Use a digital tool or a physical board, like this one we found on Pintrest, to list all the tasks. Guests can pick what they'd like to contribute to, ensuring an organized and efficient party.
Examples for the Task Board: This really is a chance for friends and family to rally around the expecting couple. A diverse group of attendees mean there will be much skill and talent present, so the sky is the limit! Examples include: organizing the baby's room, hanging baby's clothing, assembling nursery furniture, prepping meals, deep cleaning the home, baby proofing, stocking the fridge, and making household repairs.
Consider the Essentials: Many new families overlook the importance of basic cleaning supplies. If the family is just starting out, items like brooms, mops, and cleaning supplies may not be prioritized. Yet, with a new baby, maintaining a clean home becomes crucial. Consider taking a break from the expensive, short term use baby gadgets, and instead prioritize cleaning supplies which will benefit the young family for years to come.
Supplies to Bring
Cleaning Supplies: Mop, broom, duster, and eco-friendly cleaning agents. If you plan to help clean, bringing extra supplies to leave behind can be a thoughtful gesture. Leaving a broom or a set of cleaning tools can serve as a practical and appreciated gift. This is a great gift, coming from more established families who know the value of these essential items.
Self-Care Items: Hand lotions, bath salts, or even a plush robe. The postpartum period can be taxing, and stocking the bathroom with self-care items encourage relaxation and recovery.
Tools for Assembly and Repairs: Check in advance if any furniture or baby equipment needs assembly or repairs, and bring the necessary tools.
Food and Meals
Prepare a Meal for the Party: Choose recipes that can feed a crowd easily. Consider dietary restrictions and preferences of the guests.
Postpartum Meals: Prepare and freeze meals for the family to enjoy after the baby arrives. Think of nutritious, comforting foods that can be easily reheated.
On the Day of the Party
Welcome: It is a nice gesture to welcome guests in with a small bite to eat or a drink, to help them feel welcome
Task Execution: Guests choose tasks from the board and get to work. Tasks might include assembling the crib, organizing the nursery, baby-proofing the house, and deep cleaning.
Safety First: Ensure that any cleaning or maintenance work is done safely, keeping the expecting mother's health in mind.
Enjoyment: Don't forget to have fun! This is a celebration, after all. Incorporate games or activities that allow for breaks and socializing.
Post-Party
Stock Up: Besides the immediate tasks, consider stocking the family on essentials like toilet paper, laundry detergent, and diapers. These less glamorous gifts often prove to be incredibly useful.
A Gift of Time: Sometimes, the best gift is a promise of future help. Consider gifting a card with a heartfelt message or a coupon book for babysitting. Inside, offer more cleaning, or meal preparation services you're willing to offer after the baby arrives.
Thank You Notes: Be sure to send out thank you notes to your guests, letting them know how grateful you are for their support!
Key Takeaways
Hosting a nesting party is not just about getting the home ready; it's about showing support and love for the expecting family. It's a gesture that says, "We're here for you, now and in the times to come." Enjoy this special time with your loved ones, and take comfort in knowing you're setting up a clean, safe, and loving environment for the new arrival.