• First you need to determine a budget. Will you be paying for the whole party yourself or will others be contributing? Either way, a budget is needed so that everyone feels comfortable and agrees on what will be expected financially. The same holds true about who will be responsible for what, and on what time frame. If the person responsible for the location fails to confirm the accommodations in time, it will create a big problem. If only one person is handling all the details, it can be simpler, and yet sometimes more difficult. Depending on the size and scope of the shower, that person may need some help and shouldn't be afraid to ask for it.
  
  
• Which supplies will be needed? These things will be determined during the planning stages. In most cases invitations will be sent about a month in advance, and remember to include the cost of stamps in your budget. The hostess will determine if the party is to include only family, family and friends, or family, friends and co-workers. If the party is not a surprise, the guest of honor can supply names. If your budget is tight, make sure you let the guest of honor know, in advance, that you are planning a party for a certain number of people. That way there will be no surprises. Before you can know what supplies will be needed, you need to determine where the party will be held. Will it be in a home, restaurant, banquet hall, clubhouse, or at work? If it is to be in a home, you will need to decide the amount of room you have. That will determine the number of guests you can accommodate and the supplies needed. A warm and cozy home party can be nice, and the informality is often very comfortable. If it is to be in a restaurant or other facility, they may have rules on decorating. A restaurant or hall may mean less preparation and clean up chores for the hostess, and a more upscale atmosphere. At a minimum, some helium balloons, a banner and a table cover for the gift table would be in order. Themed centerpieces or flowers for each individual guest table also add a nice touch. If it is even more informal, then at least one centerpiece should be used for the food table, even if you are using card tables. Some confetti on each table is also cute. The menu will be determined by the time of day, the budget of the hostess and the location of the party. It can be simple (cake and punch), elaborate (5 star restaurant) or a buffet in a hall or clubhouse. The food can be informal or quite elaborate.
  
  
• The top 5 essential supplies for every party are:

1. Food
2. Fun (games, laughs, ice breakers, guest favors, etc.)
3. Decorations
4. Camera
5. Guest book and gift record

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