Tips for hosting a “Sip and See” party

We’ve all heard of baby showers, sprinkles, and even diaper raffles, but what parents-to-be may not know is that they can actually wait until they celebrate their growing family. back Their child was born.

For parents who want to go a non-traditional route, a “taste and watch” party is the best option. This type of party allows family and friends to stop by at a set time during the day, enjoy refreshments, and meet the new baby.

So, how do you host a successful “tasting party”? Read on to learn some expert-approved tips for throwing the perfect event.

What is a “Sip and See” party?

The origins of drinking and watching are rooted in the South. Initially, new mothers from this part of the United States would invite family and friends over for tea and coffee to welcome the new baby and congratulate the new mother. This is essentially an open day with lots of refreshments and tours.

The idea has caught on across the country, with more and more parents choosing to attend parties as a way to introduce their children to friends and family on their own terms.

“With the arrival of a healthy baby, moms and dads can enjoy themselves without worrying about the looming uncertainty of birth,” said Lisa Cokinos, founder and creative director of LC Events.

Kristen Gosselin, founder and creative director of KG Events & Design, added: “For some, health concerns may mean avoiding large crowds during pregnancy. Others may prefer a more relaxed atmosphere where they can drink and watch. , which can save some time.

This type of party is also a practical option for tired new parents who want to introduce their baby to all their close friends at the same time, rather than visiting multiple times over many days. Additionally, “sip and see” parties offer families with multiple children a way to celebrate the arrival of a new baby without having to hold another shower or even a smaller sprinkle party.

Tips for hosting a “Sip and See” party

For anyone throwing a party where all friends and family will be in attendance, especially one celebrating such an important occasion as a newborn, not even knowing where to start can be stressful. You’ll want to respect your baby’s nap time and provide enough food and drink for your guests, but also make sure you don’t become overwhelmed as a new parent (who may already be exhausted). But the good news is, you can make your own rules and host a party that works for your family.

Need a little inspiration to get started? Here are five expert-approved tips for hosting a drink tour.

The perfect time to take a sip and see

There are several factors to keep in mind when planning your tastings and tastings. The most important thing is to choose a date that works for your family. While friends and family are eager to see your baby right away, it’s important to prioritize your baby’s safety.

“Consult your doctor to determine the best time to introduce your baby to a group setting,” Gosselin says. “Many parents choose to wait at least two months after their child is born to drink water.”

Additionally, consider your baby’s feeding and nap habits to ensure activities fit smoothly into their schedule. If your relative arrives when the baby is getting tired and cranky,

How to garnish to taste

A theme is always a fun way to capture the spirit of party planning, and it can help you stay on track from a design perspective. Fun newborn-themed ideas include:

• Start a new chapter: A book themed party, taking inspiration from children’s books, e.g. peter rabbit series, Where wild beasts roam, or Madeleine.
• Welcome to the world: A map or globe-themed party that explores different countries and features food and drinks that celebrate world cuisine.
• Something sweet just arrived: This dessert-themed party can include a variety of sweets, such as cakes and cupcakes, or ice cream bars with toppings in all the colors of the rainbow to welcome the new baby.

If elaborate decorations and themes aren’t your strong suit, or you don’t have the time or energy to plan everything, you can simply host the party at home and make your guests comfortable in your seating room or backyard. If you want to incorporate low-level decor, choose some fresh flowers, some colorful balloons, or some twinkling lights to give your space a cheerful vibe.

What food and drinks to drink and see

Drinking and watching is the key to getting cozy, relaxing, and meeting your baby, so choose a simple menu with items guests can grab and go—like cupcakes, sugar cookies, finger sandwiches, fruit bowls, or cheese boards .

If you identify a theme, play with it and choose foods that complement it. But avoid eating messy foods or foods that are difficult to eat while standing or moving around. After all, your guests will be meeting a new baby and socializing with each other, so you don’t want to clean up any spills or messes. Of course, be sure to offer a variety of drink options for guests of all ages.

Activities for guests of all ages

Since parties with drinks and watching are usually more relaxed, there’s no need for elaborate activities or games unless you want to. There are many baby shower games you can incorporate into your day, but you can also focus on practical, fun options like diaper raffles or onesie decorations.

“I highly recommend having friends and family write advice cards for the newborn and having the children present draw pictures or create a coloring book for the baby,” says Cokinos. “These are great keepsakes that parents can look at when their children are one, five or even older and keep them throughout their children’s childhood.”

Another interactive activity for adults and children is to have everyone design a square quilt using markers or patches and then put the quilt together at the end of the activity. A cute thank you note sent to guests after the event can include a photo of the baby lying on the quilt.

How to Integrate Your Baby into Sip and See

When making your guest list for drinks, Gosselin recommends keeping the number of guests on the smaller side, so your nearest and dearest get a chance to meet the baby without a whole bunch of people scrambling to get there. Or ask to hold them.

“Keep this in mind, you want to make sure you and your baby’s comfort and health are your top priority,” she says. “If the guest list is overloaded, you’re creating a crowded environment and your baby may become overstimulated by guests.”

Many parents may also want to prevent guests from holding and passing their newborn to avoid germs and reduce the chance of you or your baby getting sick. To achieve this, it’s important to set clear boundaries with your guests.

Many parents may note their preference on the invitation or place signs around the event. If you want to give people a chance to hold your baby but are worried about germs, add signage that says “Wash your hands before holding our little ones.” Many parents may also want to encourage guests to wear a mask when holding their baby, or discourage guests from kissing their baby’s face.