There is nothing quite so adorable as a shabby chic baby shower. It can begin with the invitations, progress through the table settings and favors, and even include baby clothes and equipment. Of course, it is a good idea to make sure that the gifts meet modern standards for baby safety – some older toys and equipment do not. But it is easy to make modern equipment look as if it were a family heirloom.
Here are some ideas to get started.
Begin with rustic burlap shower invitations, just to set the mood. Then create some painted mason jar favors using ½ pint jelly glasses, decorated with jute string ties and squares of calico print fabric. Fill the jars with something fun for the guests – such as animal crackers. Dye white tablecloths with tea or coffee to give them an aged look and add faux lace paper napkins in wire restaurant style holders. Tour the camping department for sets of speckled, blue enamel dinner sets – durable and cute. Or, if your theme is more sophisticated, go for replicas of blue willow ware.
Gifts can also be shabby chic. Child safety seats that meet standards aren’t likely to fit the shabby chic profile, but a baby cover with quilt top print can convert this essential piece of equipment to something that looks shabby (but isn’t) and is definitely chic. Knitted rompers are nearly timeless and can be purchased or hand knit from vintage patterns – and that goes for diaper covers, too. Incorporate modern convenience (Velcro and snaps) with eco-friendly cloth diapers for a gift that will keep on giving for the first year of the child’s life. Crown the gifts with a sweet satin and lace christening gown or a set of old-fashioned baby gowns that will be perfect for sleepwear.