Nothing says that a baby shower has to be party games and a simple cake and ice cream event. Baby showers are the perfect time to get your friends together for cocktails and hor' dourves, and opening of wonderful gifts for the new arrival.

A baby shower doesn't even have to just be women. Since fathers are just as much a part of the new baby's life there is no need to exclude them from the fanfare and pampering a baby showers brings to the parents. And, since he doesn't want to be the only male in the crowd (although some may find this an interesting concept) other male friends should be included as well. There is always the grandfathers-to-be for starters.

Cocktail parties don't have to be prim and proper either. Vie for beer on tap as well as mixed drinks served from a pitcher - like marguaritas mojitos or sangria cocktails.  Of course it goes without saying that at least one of the guests of honor will not be drinking alcoholic beverages, but there are "virgin" cocktails available so she won't be left out of the celebratory drinks.

Decorate the room with tiny bundle lantern garland complete with baby danglers, or you can string both pink and blue hanging lanterns. If you know the sex of the baby,  you will probably opt for the standard blue for boys and pink for girls.

Hand out adorable favors like "A Star Is Born" bottle stoppers, and "Baby Announce-mints" to your guests as thank you favors for their attendance. Have the pictured shower umbrella at the gift table and have each of the guests sing their name on the ribbons.

There's no need to stick with tradition all the time. Sometimes a departure from the norm makes things a little more exciting.  (Note: for baby shower favors, or gifts for the newborn, don't miss checking out our home site - Celebrate Milestones). 

Here are a couple great recipes to get you started:

No Guilt Pina Coladas
(Calories reduced from 300 to 150 calories!)

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 Oz of coconut rum
• 3 Oz pineapple juice
• 2 Oz light coconut milk
• Dash of club soda
• A pineapple slice for garnish

Directions
In a shaker combine the rum, pineapple juice and coconut milk, and shake with ice.

Pour into a high ball glass and top with the club soda. Garnish with the pineapple slice.


Traditional Marguarita with a Twist
(Recipe based on a version by Vilis Ozlos)
Everyone loves a classic, but here's a new take on the traditional Marguarita that will kick it up a notch. The secret ingredient - beer!

Ingredients

• 1-1/2 cups quality tequila (try Jose Cuervo 1800, Patron or Agave Anejo)
• 1/2 cup of Grand Marnier
• 1/3 bottle of beer - makes the Marguarita taste smoother and ads a hint of carbonation
• 1 can frozen lemonade concentrate (without pulp)
• Juice from 1 lime
• Juice from 1/2 lemon
• 1/2 cup of agave nector
• Ice

Directions
Add all ingredients to a blender and mix it up
Pour Into a Marguarita glass and enjoy!