A baby shower is held in honor of the upcoming birth (or the birth) of a newborn child to welcome him or her into the family. It is normally planned and hosted by close friends or relatives of the soon-to-parents. It used to be inappropriate at one time for family members to participate in baby showers because it involves giving gifts to the expectant parents. These days however, it is quite acceptable for family members to help out or plan a baby shower.

A baby shower is normally organized around the seventh or eighth month of the mother's pregnancy although in some cultures it is inauspicious to hold a baby shower before the actual birth. A baby shower is held in honor of the baby and is also an occasion for friends and relatives to give the parents-to-be, gifts they can use once the baby arrives.

A baby shower requires a lot of planning and coordination. A guest list has to be drawn up, the invitations sent out, the venue decorated, games and party favors arranged and finally and most importantly, a menu has to be decided on.

The highlight of any party is always the food and a baby shower is no exception.

The following are some ideas of the types of food you can serve during a baby shower:

- Bread or sandwiches
- Dessert (cakes, cookies, ice cream, etc.)
- Chips or fries
- Pasta
- Pies (pizzas, etc.)
- Salad
- Drinks (punch, juice, wine, etc.)

Here are some menu ideas that are sure to be a hit with guests and expectant parents alike:

1. What you serve at the baby shower will be determined by the time of day the function is held. A lunch or dinner time affair will require you to serve a proper, sit-down meal. For an early afternoon or early evening party, appetizers, salads and finger foods will suffice.

2. Go in for snack trays each with different types of food. For example, one tray can have a variety of finger sandwiches, another, cold cuts and a third, fresh vegetables arranged around a bowl of dip.

3. Most baby showers have a theme and the menu should reflect this. If your theme is a tea time party, serve scones and finger sandwiches. A theme centered on nursery rhymes can have cakes and pies that are shaped like nursery rhyme characters such as Humpty Dumpty deviled eggs.

4. Use a bit of imagination in the way you present the food. Serve the fruit salad in a melon bowl or a melon shaped like a baby carriage.

5. Sprinkle confetti all over the serving table and throw in some baby pacifier candies and chocolate bars.

6. Match your cutlery and crockery to the chosen color scheme of the party. Disposable cups and plates can save you the hassle of cleaning up afterwards.

7. The expectant mother is the guest of honor so make sure you select food that she is allowed to eat. Take into account any food allergies or aversions she may have and avoid food that is easily contaminated or can lead to food poisoning such as soft cheeses and uncooked meat. Alcohol is a definite no-no.

Follow these few tips and you will succeed in throwing an unforgettable baby shower.