How to plan a baby shower on a budget

A small budget shouldn't mean a small shower. Most of what guests remember has nothing to do with how much you spent. Here's where to put the money — and where to save it.

Spend on the food

Skip the catered platters. Make one beautiful main dish and a couple of sides. People remember the meal that felt homemade more than the buffet that felt staged.

Save on the décor

A few good flowers, candles, and a folded napkin go further than balloon arches and themed banners. Restraint reads as taste.

Lean on the registry

A Wishari registry takes the gift-giving guesswork out of the conversation. Guests bring what was needed; the parents-to-be aren't left with three baby monitors and no swaddles.