Showers of Green: Plan an Eco-Friendly Baby Shower

There is nothing more exciting to an expectant mother than planning a baby shower. The games, the presents, the celebration of the life that is growing within you. Many moms also take a whole lot of pleasure in making a baby shower gift registry. But for the eco-friendly moms, planning an ecologically sound baby shower can be quite the challenge. Not to worry – here are some ideas that will help you create that eco-friendly baby shower you have always wanted!

Invitations

In today’s modern age, invitations can easily be done online, and for free! You can even create a website for your baby shower where people can RSVP. If you choose to create a gift registry, many baby shower gift registries are also available online.

If you prefer to physically mail out an invitation so that people may keep it as a keepsake, there are several recycled paper products out there that you can use to make creative and attractive invites.

Decorations

Forget the balloons and banners. Light up the room with floating candles and create your own baby banners and decorations with recycled paper products and fresh cut local flowers! If you have already collected some baby gear, try incorporating that into the décor too.

Presents

Ahh, what to get the eco-friendly mother? Locate a store near you that sells eco-friendly baby items and add them to a guest registry (such as organic cotton baby clothing, cloth diapers, and wooden toys). If you know any parents who have children, request that they pass on their old baby toys as a gift! Another idea that I absolutely love is asking guests to prepare a meal and freeze them as a present so that you have ready to eat food after the baby is born (you will be extremely grateful for this when the time comes, trust me!).

Guests can even wrap the presents up in crib mattress sheets, receiving blankets, and other kinds of baby blankies.

Bear in mind that guests will ultimately buy what THEY see suitable for you. Expect to still receive some brand new toys and items made from synthetic materials that you, as the eco-parent, might appreciate less. Be prepared to accept this graciously too. Have fun!

photo by Ann- Kathrin Rehse