How to use Nursery Items in Baby Shower Centerpieces

Your best friend, sister or daughter is expecting her first bundle of joy and you're in charge of the baby shower. You've got plenty of ideas for a theme, food, decorations, party favors and the like, but are stumped on what to do about centerpieces. Plus, you're on a budget. You can easily solve this by using what's already in your own children's nursery (or that of your relative or friend).

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Stuffed animals
• Children's books
• Baby blankets and afghans
• Toy cars or trucks

1. Confiscate an assortment of your children's stuffed animals, books, toys, bibs and baby blankets a few days before the shower. If you don't have small children of your own, then ask a friend or family member to take care of this task.

2. Create a unique arrangement for each table of guests using these nursery items. For example, put a bib on a teddy bear reading a Dr. Seuss book, or show a stuffed penguin and polar bear having a toy car race. Get your children (or those of your friend or relative) in on the fun after you explain that you will return their toys after the party.

3. Put the items for each display in a separate box or plastic bag to take to the shower. Also, include a baby blanket or afghan for each centerpiece.

4. Spread a blanket or afghan in the middle of each table an hour before the shower begins. Then arrange each centerpiece on top of it and wait for the oohs and aahs to come pouring in from your guests.

Tips & Warnings

• Choose only gently used toys and books for the centerpieces. While they don't need to be brand new, they shouldn't be falling apart either.

Resources

• To plan a shower on a budget, check out Eversave.