Engagements and the pending arrival of a newborn offer the opportunity to incorporate sweet, personalized details into the celebrations. At baby showers (where the guest of honor won’t likely be sipping alcoholic drinks), the focus often shifts from inventive cocktails to playful, eye-catching food, such as sushi-shaped sweets, meatloaf cakes, and dangling pretzels, with baby-theme presentations. D.I.Y. activities, such as watercolor cookie painting and make-your-own potpourri stations, remain popular at both bridal and baby showers. More planners are also encouraging guests to leave personalized messages for hosts, whether via outside-the-box guest books or note cards.












