Welcome to Samantha’s Baby Shower … It’s a Girl!
It’s been a year since I wrote about my niece’s baby shower.
Can you believe it’s one of my most popular posts ever?!
In honor of it’s one-year anniversary, and popularity,
I bring you a repeat performance!
This is a post I’ve wanted to write for a long time.
When I say a long time … I mean nearly three four years.
Before I had a blog.
Better late than never … at long last today I’m re-sharing this very special day.
Three four years ago, my oldest niece, Samantha, was pregnant with her third child, and first girl.
Nieces are my specialty so, of course, I offered
to throw a baby shower.
As luck would have it, I’d just read a blog post by Cindy Hattersley …
Girl Baby Shower That You Can Copy
Thanks, Cindy, I was delighted to take you up on your generous offer!
At the time I was living on Fidalgo Island in Washington state.
My niece … her family and friends … were back home in California.
Since I couldn’t host the shower in my home, I decided to hold it at a fun restaurant venue.
Sounds easy, right?
Turns out, not so much.
I contacted all our favorite restaurants, hotels and meeting spaces.
They were either booked or our group was too large or too small for their space.
Frustrated (read: freaking out), and with the date fast approaching,
I decided to engage an event planner, Lindsay Lauren Events.
Yes, I know … an event planner … for a baby shower.
Who do we think we are … the Kardashians?
Calm down … turns out this was a smart and cost-effective move.
It paid for itself because I didn’t need to make trips back and forth during the planning stages.
As an event planner extraordinaire, Lindsay has negotiating leverage and this saved quite a bit in the food, floral and rental departments.
If nothing else, it gave me peace of mind.
Lindsay came highly recommended and I made just one trip back to California to meet her,
visit the venue she recommended and select our shower menu.
Lindsay took it from there.
I boarded my plane home with a huge sense of relief.
The shower was back on track and in capable hands.
That’s not to say I went home to eat bon bons and file my nails.
I still had lots of work to do starting with invitations.
But first, a word on our shower theme …
‘Farm Girl Meets Mother Approved’
What the what?
Well, the first part is self-explanatory … it reflects my niece’s style.
The second part, mother approved, is a childhood joke between my sister and me.
Our mom frequently looked askance at our activities.
She’d peer over the top of her glasses and say, ‘I do not approve.’
Over the years, when discussing various goings-on in our lives we’d observe that
‘mother would approve’ … or, more often than not,
‘mother would NOT approve.’
It gives us a good giggle.
Me & My Sister
Sadly, our mom passed away 22 years ago after a 4-year long battle with ovarian cancer.
She was only 64.
Samantha had just turned 10 and has many treasured memories of time spent
with her beloved Granny.
She and her sister, Sophia, were the light of their Granny’s life.
Since her passing, a third granddaughter, Shelby, joined the fun.
So, the long and short of it is that the shower must be in keeping with Samantha’s casual style
while honoring her Granny’s delicate sensibilities!
All sources and vendors are listed at the end of the post.
With all that said, let me tell you about the shower …
The Event Planner –
Lindsay Lauren Events. I can’t say enough good things about Lindsay and her team. If you’re planning a wedding (or any special event) in the Bay Area run don’t walk to get Lindsay onboard.
The Venue –
Lindsay suggested Sauced BBQ & Spirits … a fun, casual restaurant in the heart of downtown Walnut Creek with a lovely outdoor patio. Perfect!
The patio was set up in two sections.
For the luncheon we set two, long, rectangular tables.
A comfortable conversation area was arranged next to the luncheon tables. Dotted with Adirondack chairs set around low tables, everyone gathered here upon arrival to chat and enjoy a signature cocktail or mocktail prior to lunch.
The Theme –
Farm Girl Meets Mother Approved – explained in detail above.
The Invitation –
The shower invitation and all other printed materials (place cards, favor cards, game card, welcome sign and big photo prop frame) came from an Etsy shop that is no longer in business. In addition to Etsy, Minted offers many pretty invitation options. As does Dogwood Hill.
The Event Design –
Borrowing liberally from Cindy’s baby shower template (hey, she offered) I tracked down her cute coral, Kate Spade polka dot napkins. The napkins became the jumping off point for our table settings and overall aesthetic.
We rented tan and white striped table clothes for the long, rectangular tables. We also rented large, scalloped plates and clear goblets for the place settings. The restaurant provided the flatware and small mason jar glasses.
We used the restaurants metal dining chairs and rented a pretty French country-style chair, with comfy pillow, for the mama-to-be.
We folded the coral, polka dot napkins in a simple triangle shape and tied the place cards at the top with twine … and a sprig of faux boxwood tucked in at the top.
The Signage –
Signs dotting the dessert, favor and gift tables were made by another local business, Pop Tarts and Peonies. Beautifully hand-written on craft paper and tacked to blocks of painted white wood, they were so clever and Samantha loved them!
The Flowers –
Fringe Flower Company created the glorious florals.
Coral and orange peonies, dahlias, viburnum, ranunculus, and roses – with beautiful greenery – arranged in rectangular wooden boxes ran down the center of each table.
Similar arrangements adored the dessert, gift and favor tables as well as the patio bar.
And a flower crown for Samantha. Isn’t she glowing?!!!
The Signature Cocktail –
Upon arrival guests were offered a cucumber watermelon cocktail or mocktail served in mini mason jars. And I tracked down these cute cocktail napkins also copied from Cindy’s post.
As a Southern girl who loved her sweet tea but eschewed spirits, mother would turn a blind eye.
The Luncheon –
We kicked off the luncheon with a salad course consisting of individually plated nachos.
Yes, nachos. So fun!
The lunch menu, served buffet style, included BBQ brisket and pulled pork, Mac n’ cheese, slaw, Brussels sprouts and cornbread.
In addition to our signature cocktail, we offered lemonade in a pretty dispenser, iced tea, Sauvignon Blank and Rose wines.
The Sweets –
Itty Bitty Bake Shoppe, a local favorite, made all the desserts and set up a beautiful dessert table. Everyone oooh’d and ahhh’d!
- Vanilla Mini-Cakes
- Chocolate Dipped Strawberries
- Frosted Chocolate Brownies
The Game –
I’m not a fan of shower games. Neither was my mother.
That said, we enjoyed an ice breaker activity called ‘Find the Guest’
All very dignified and proper and mother would begrudgingly approve.
The Favors –
Each guest went home a bag of pretty – and yummy – sugar cookies from Itty Bitty Bake Shoppe and a split of Chandon bubbles.
The night before the shower, my sister and I sat on my hotel room floor tying coral and white striped straws to the bottles of bubbles along with a tag inviting guests ‘To Pop When She Pops’ … with a sprig of faux boxwood tucked into the pretty coral ribbon.
The Photography –
Early on I decided to hire a photographer and Lindsay introduced me to Monica Vargas. The shower took place in June, a busy wedding weekend, but Monica was able to fit us in. The shower started at 11:30am and we booked her for an hour and a half to capture the setting and guest arrivals. She departed shortly after we sat down for lunch to get onto her next engagement.
She captured everything beautifully and exceeded our wildest expectations.
The Helpers –
My youngest niece, Shelby, and her friend, Belle, acted as co-hosts and facilitators during the shower. They arrived early to help set up and then they stationed themselves by the door to greet guests and show them to the patio. They MC’d the ice breaker activity, recorded gifts and made sure everyone got a photo op with the guest of honor.
The girls were an enormous help, and I couldn’t have pulled it off without them.
It feels like just yesterday I was hosting my sister’s baby shower for Shelby. My goodness how time flies
Last but not least, a big shout out to my good friend, Shelley, who took the coral polka dot napkins home with her, washed and ironed them and returned them to Samantha in a box tied with a ribbon. Wow, now that’s a friend.
Me & Shelley … Best Shower Guest Ever
Mother enthusiastically approves and would have adopted Shelley as her third, and favorite, daughter.
Speaking of the napkins, they have since made their way to Snowberry where they’re tucked away waiting for other big occasions in my grand-nieces life.
The Guests –
Thirty-two lovely ladies attended the shower.
My Sister & Her Bestie
Samantha & Her Sisters
Samantha & Her Bonus Mom
Youngest Shower Guest
So lucky to have my besties, Shelley and Jane, at the shower. I’ve known them since high school.
The Niecies!
When the shower ended, I headed to the airport, with a quick stop at the cemetery
to leave flowers from the shower on my mother’s grave.
Samantha returned home with a grateful heart and a car full of lovely gifts to welcome her baby girl into her family.
Sam & Me
Here are a few thousand more pictures from the shower.
Nieces Sophia & Shelby
Guest of Honor
Shower Favors
The sun was out, it wasn’t too hot, it wasn’t too cold … it was simply perfect
A day to always remember and never forget.
And, as with most things in life, it took a village.
I’m so appreciative of the talented group of woman and Bay Area businesses
who collaborated to create a beautiful and memorable afternoon.
Sources & Vendors –
Event Planner: Lindsay Lauren Events; a scroll through Lindsay’s Instagram page is heaven.
Venue & Catering: Sauced BBQ & Spirits
Desserts & Favors: Itty Bitty Bake Shoppe
Graphics: @eighteen61designs (it appears this shop has closed or changed its focus)
Signage: Pop Tarts and Peonies
Florist: Fringe Flower Company
Rentals: Pleasanton Rentals
Photographer: Monica Vargas Photography
Be sure to take a look at Cindy Hattersley’s well timed blog post that inspired it all …
Girl Baby Shower That You Can Copy
Cindy hosted her shower at her gorgeous home
and she shares many of the delicious recipes she prepared.
So, there you have it … a baby shower to remember.
My Sister & Nieces
Mother approved!
PIN THE POST TO SAVE FOR LATER –
Update –
My sweet little grand-niece, Maesyn Louise, arrived on July 16th.
Soon she’ll be three four!
Here’s a recent snap of Maesyn, last year, with her big brothers, Wyatt and Beau.
They’ve since moved to Texas.
I miss them.
Wyatt, Maesyn & Beau taken by their mom, Samantha
We recently welcomed another baby girl into the family.
Samantha threw a beautiful shower for her sister, Sophie.
You can read about it here.
Sophie’s baby, Haddie, arrived last July.
Haddie James taken by her mom, Sophie
The more nieces the merrier.
So there you have it.
A baby girl shower thrown in a restaurant.
I hope this gives you ideas and inspiration for a baby shower of your own.
At a restaurant or at home.
As always, I appreciate your visit and welcome your thoughts in the comments below.
Cheers from Snowberry!
SHOP THE SHOWER –
You can also check my Amazon Store for my ‘Baby Shower Essentials’ Idea List!
Juliet, this baby shower is fabulous! I love everything! The flowers, the desserts and the favors. What a wonderful day with your besties, sister and 32 friends.
Hi Elizabeth … it was such a wonderful day … nearly three years later and I’m still thinking of it! xo
What a beautiful shower and a memory your niece will have forever!!
It was a beautiful day! xo
What a beautiful shower! The menu was so fun and I definitely think your mother would have approved! How sweet that you included her with the flowers. You have a beautiful family, Juliet! Thanks for sharing!
Thanks, Kim … you have no idea the hand wringing that went on to ensure that mom would approve!!! xo
What a lovely post. I’ve never hosted a baby shower but if I ever do, I’ll be using this post as inspiration. I loved the polka dots and the flowers were exquisite. How lucky your niece is. It’s really wonderful that you honoured your Mum in that way too.
Hi Carol … the wonderful thing about the inter-webs is we’re never at a loss for ideas. I was so fortunate Cindy Hattersley had thrown a shower and posted all about it … or I’m sure our shower would have been pitiful. It was a beautiful day I’ll always remember! xo
The shower looked amazing! Great job on hiring an event planner and photographer. They are worth every penny! Helps you to enjoy yourself at the shower too. To plan an event out state, a good choice to hire a planner!
I loved the flowers and color selections. Everything looked so gorgeous. I loves the photo prop frame too. All the attention to details made a stunning setting.
Thanks, Tammy! I really was embarrassed about hiring a planner but it turned out to be the perfect choice. And, you’re right … I was able to enjoy the shower like a guest which I wouldn’t have been able to do otherwise. It was such a fun day! xo
So gorgeous and I love Sauced what a fun place for a shower! You certainly amped up my theme a notch! It brought back memories for me as well. That was probably the last big event I hosted here at our home! To new adventures. I think your little niece and Summer need to meet!
Oh, yes … they are nearly the same age! They are the sweetest little girls! Can you believe these events were three years ago … time flies and times change. Maybe your forever house will be nearby?!!! xo
This is just beyond beautiful!!! I love the colorscheme and the flowers are incredible!!! I do many events, so I pinned this for future inspo!!!
Thanks, Danielle … it was such a fun day! xo
What a lovely shower and beautiful (and comical) tribute to your mother. I got a tear in my eye when you wrote that you took flowers from the shower to the cemetery. You’re a good daughter. ❤️
Oh, Kelly, thank you. I miss my mom so much. xo
Your shower looks absolutely amazing!!! You are a fantastic aunt!!!
7/16/18 is a day I remember well . . . my mother passed away that morning.
Oh no, Robbin, I’m so sorry to hear that. I miss my mom so much … and it’s been 22 years. It’s still relatively new for you … all I can say is that while I miss her more each year, the pain of the immediate loss is replaced by happy memories. And, I always try to include her in some way in family event and milestones. xo
I REMEMBER THIS LIKE IT WAS YESTERDAY!
IS THE NAPKIN WASHER/PRESSER THE FRIEND WHO SPOTTED THE CONTESSA AT LARGE IN DOWNTOWN WC?
A BEAUTIFUL BABY SHE TURNED OUT TO BE!
YOUR SENSE OF HUMOR JULIET IS SO FUN!
I don’t know what I enjoy MORE your words or the PHOTOS!
CONGRATULATIONS AUNTIE EXTORDINAIRE!!!
HOPE THEY APPRECIATE YOU!
XXX
Thank you so much, Contessa … as you can see I remember it too and can’t stop blabbing about it! Haha! No, the napkins presser is not my friend who spots you in the wild, BUT … you can spot her in the post! She’s my bestie on the right! Mother approved! xo
What a beautiful shower!
Thanks, Linda! xo
This shower was so fun, and beautiful. I just LOVE all of the colors. You did a great job
Thanks, Soph … it was fun and Granny would have loved it! xo
This is absolutely gorgeous! Job well done!
Thanks, Christin … I had a lot of fun with it! xo
Beautiful baby shower … definitely one to remember!
What a beautiful shower! The color scheme is so pretty. You are an auntie extraordinaire! Love that last picture of your great niece and great nephews.
Hi Juliet,
You really outdid yourself on this! What a beautiful shower, and she’s such a beautiful little three year old!
I don’t think I could come up with that many great ideas, everything was just lovely.
You’re a good auntie!
Sweet that you took the flowers to your mom at the cemetery. It’s hard not having our moms around isn’t it? But so nice that you include her in special family events, I think she would definitely approve!
Xo Heidi
Oh Juliet, I enjoyed reading your post so much!. What a stunning event! I swooned over each and every photo.
Marieza … you’re the sweetest! It was a special day and I was so excited to share! xo
One word… WOWZA! Samantha is one lucky lady to have such a devoted, generous auntie!! I love the color theme. The tablesetting is absolutely gorgeous! I am sure that Samantha has a beautiful memory of the special day. Have a great weekend, dear Juliet!!
Oh, Preppy Empty Nester, you’re much too kind … mother and PEN approved. What more can an auntie ask for! Heading over to your blog now for update on the HOUSE! xo
i approve! I didn’t think Kardashian, I thought Frank! Father of the Bride 2. It was a beautiful shower. Everyone looks like they enjoyed it especially the mom to be!
Oh my gosh, Frank!!! Loved those movies … and you’ve got me laughing! Thank you! xo
What a beautiful and touching event. It looks gorgeous and i know without a doubt your mom loved every moment of it.
Jennifer … thank you so much. I think my mother would have loved it and I hope she was there with us in spirit! xo
Juliet, I feel bad I am so late to read this! I still remember you posting pictures of this. What a magical and beautiful day. You are the best auntie! So smart to hire a photographer too! You all look beautiful. And those kiddos are the cutest. You are so lucky to have so many women in your family and all be so close. I’m sure the things you do, create that too! Thank you for sharing all the details here. I am saving this!xox Kim
I so much enjoyed both reading your post and all of the lovely pictures. This has to be the most beautiful baby shower that I’ve ever seen. Your niece is a lucky gal to have you as her aunt!
WOW! This is STUNNING! great job! I love the colors. Such a beautiful baby shower!
Oh mY! I was so very Honored to have attended the most exquisite baby shower ever! Every detail was spectacular,, and executed with so much l Love for your bea utiful niece.
You’re the bestest shower guest ever … although I bet you wish I’d stop blabbing about this shower. 😉 xo
Absolutely the prettiest shower! Loving these ideas!
Thanks so much,Christy! It was such a beautiful day I’ve decided to celebrate it’s anniversary every year. 😉 xo
I never saw this post. All I xan say is WOW! I love every single aspect
It looks like it was a blast besides gorgeous. So happy you posted this again
Hi Cindy … it was a blast and I love having these wonderful photos to relive the day! Hope you’re looking forward to a beautiful weekend! xo
Hi Juliet
I am planning a shower for my niece mid-summer so thank you for reminding me of all the details! I think it may be a boy so we probably will not be able to recycle the napkins!! I think you took my simple shower to another level for sure!!
How exciting! You know I found those same Kate Spade napkins in navy with white dots … I used them for my Dad’s birthday luncheon a couple years ago. What can I say, I love polka dots. I’ll be looking forward to all your new shower details this summer (so I can copy them too!). xo
This was such a beautiful shower! Every detail was so well thought out. I drooled over this post the first time and I drooled over it again today. I’m happy to celebrate it’s anniversary every year. It’s timeless! But how could this have been 3 years ago?!?!?! I’ve pinned this on the hopes that I host a baby shower in the future.
Annemarie … you’re the sweetest! I hope you get to host a baby shower too … or a wedding shower. So much fun! xo
Thanks for posting this! I am hosting a baby girl shower this summer with a friend, so we can use these ideas! It was beautiful!
Hosting a shower is so much fun! It will be amazing! xo