Part 4: Food + Bevs + Dessert.
The consumable portion of a baby shower greatly depends on what time of day, location, how many guest will be attending and overall inspriration for the shower. For the bright + fun shower we are keeping it quite simple: crudites, bread + cheese, cupcakes + cheesecake tartlets, a fun sparkle-beverage + coffee. The shower will be held on a Friday night at 7p. Post-dinner time but certainly in need of snacks, treats + beverages.
Food: The beautiful crudites (shown in image at right) are really quite simple + basically just need assembly. However, making them for 25 people could be a little much. A fresh vegetable platter from your local market is perfectly acceptable. If you are not so hot on the plastic platter it will most likely come on, give props to semi-homemade + arrange on your own plates + you are set. And don't forget the dip. People will most likely ask if they bring something. If you are having a casual shower this is a very accomidating offer. Take them up on it. Food such as bread + cheese would be a great option and does not require much preparation.
Beverages: Not sure if people are still doing the fruit punch thing with 7-up and bits of floating sherbert? There are some lovely updated punch recipes, though who owns a punch bowl these days? I don't! I guess you could rent one. A selection of sparkling soda is a fun option, especially flavors from Dry and Izze. Sparkling water, coffee + tea are good standards. I thought these drink "parasols" were a nice touch, pattern can be found here.
Dessert: My favorite. I am still not sick of cupcakes! Cupcakes are less daunting to make than a traditional cake and always make people smile. Snag inspiration from your favorite cupcake shop, such as Sprinkles (image above middle). Unless, by chance, you live near a Sprinkles or other cupcake joint + could always buy a couple dozen. We will be having several desserts (cupcakes + cheesecake tartlets), self-serve buffet style. I will also be making these funky, but tasty Swedish cookies called Chokladbollar. Mom Sara will surely notice the thoughtful Swedish touch! (Image left + right from Martha. Middle image from Sprinkles.)