If traditional trappings such as mimosas and Quiche Lorraine feel a bit fuddy-duddy, it’s time to break out of the baby party box. Babies and beer —two of everyone’s favorite things—come together for a girls night out with plenty to celebrate.
The Menu
Skip the requisite 11 am start time and host “Babies & Brewskis” later in the afternoon for a relaxed Happy Hour vibe. Bite-sized pub grub makes an inspired, no-fuss menu. Make sure to ask your pregnant friend if she’s been jonesing for any particular bar snack—she may surprise you. Display the menu in bar-style “daily specials” on a portable chalkboard for a cute extra touch.
**Recipes contain beer. If you’d prefer to keep your menu alcohol-free, substitute beer with N/A beer.
The Dessert
Cleverly named ale cupcakes and irresistible brownie pops strike the right sweet and celebratory balance.
While the mom-to-be will likely abstain, she’ll want her guests to crack a cold one on her behalf. Serve a selection of craft beers with a special tie to the new family. For example, will the baby be born in Chicago? Try Chicago brews such as Goose Island’s 312 Urban Wheat Ale or Half-Acre Daisy Cutter Pale Ale.
Stock sparkling water and a few artisanal root beers, such as high-fructose-corn-syrup-free Old Dominion, for mama and other non-drinkers.
The Entertainment
Bar-style quiz bowl, of course! Divide guests into teams of two, and create the questions to cover everything from little-known facts about the childhoods of mom and dad to newborn factoids and curiosities. Send the winner home with a beer stein or a set of pilsner glasses. Cheers!