North Bay Woman

18 NORTH BAY WOMAN flowers and a backdrop for photos are her most frequently requested items. "It's really about being this Insta- gramable moment where there is a spot to take a picture," Clarke said. "A lot of it is celebrity-inspired and people want it to look highly stylized, pretty and elegant." In addition to balloons, using food and drink as part of the overall décor is one of the strategies used by Sta- cey Dillon, owner of 38 North Design Co. in Fairfax. "Incredible food and drinks are always at the top of people's wish list in Marin and focusing on a design that encompasses these can be all you need for a big wow factor," Dillon said. "If decorating for a party your- self, remember that you don't have to design a whole space. Create one su- per styled and focused area using the cake and favors as part of the décor." Custom elements that can't be sourced from a party store, such as special desserts, signage and edible favors, are must-haves for moms-to- be. Party planners say they create a lasting impression. As a result of the pandemic, more options for personal- ized, custom favors are available. "It's been great because so many new companies have appeared that allow party throwers to support local businesses to a much higher degree than ever before," Tanzer said. "In- corporating those special little custom touches makes it memorable." Ooh! Baby! Baby! What does it all mean? Babymoon Celebratory vacation for just the parents-to-be allowing couple time for calm relaxation before the birth. The optimum time for this is during the second trimester when, hopefully, morning sickness has sub- sided, and before any restricted travel comes in the third trimester. A week- end get-away is perfect as parents may want to save vacation time for after the birth. Baby shower Full scale party with decor, food and drink, all the friends, family and even acquaintances are invited, and there are usually games, lots of presents, and even party favors for the guests. The mother-to-be usu- ally has a gift registry for a baby show- Left to right: Celebrations of Marin sets up a perfect Instagram moment with balloons and a backdrop; 38 North Design Co., supplies colorful and creative Zoom boxes. Below: Sugar Cookie Kate in San Rafael supplies 38 North Design Co. with memorable cookies for events. – Photos courtesy of Celebrations of Marin, 38 North Design Co., Sugar Cookie Kate

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