Planning a Mother Blessing (Blessingway): Checklist

Mother Blessing Checklist -- Printer Friendly

You can use this checklist to help organize your Mother Blessing. I have removed all the Snowboard Mommy graphics and formatting and spaced it out so that each section should print nicely on two sheets of 8.5"x11" paper. When you are done printing, simply close this window and you should be back on the regular checklist page. Good luck and have fun with your Mother Blessing plans!

Initial Planning

Ideally, these should be taken care of at least one - two months in advance of your Mother Blessing. However, if you plan to have a a small Mother Blessing, some of these may be completely unnecessary, especially if it is just for yourself and your partner.

Hosts and co-hosts selected

Date and time selected and verified with host(s) and guest(s) of honor

Location selected and confirmed

Guest list confirmed with host(s) and guests of honor

Guest's addresses collected and verified (if mailing invitations)

Rituals selected with input from expecting parents
Note: you need to do this before making up the invitations so that you can advise your guests on what to bring with them and set their expectations for the Mother Blessing

One Month Mark

You should send invitations out about a month ahead of time to give everyone enough time to plan for it, but not so far in advance that they forget about it. Also, since Mother Blessing gifts are supposed to be handmade, one month will give people enough time to make something.

	Invitations printed
	Invitations mailed
	Ceremony opening and closing written
	Accompanying or background music selected
	Songs, prayers or chants for ceremony selected Lyric cards printed for guests, if applicable
	Menu (if any) selected with input from expecting parents
	Customized soap or candle favors ordered This is, of course, optional and only needs to be done in advance if you plan to have favors customized
	Online supplies ordered If you plan to order any of your Mother Blessing supplies online, you should make sure there is ample time for items to arrive at your door.

2 Week Mark

Time to start collecting everything together! Delegate as much as possible!

	Candles, incense, smudge sticks to set atmosphere gathered and set aside
	Supplies for each ritual to be performed gathered (not including what guests will bring the day of the Mother Blessing)
	Make sure you have selected your own bead for the birthing necklace and a gift for the mom!
	Adequate chairs/floor pillows for expected number of guests
	As guests RSVP, sign them up for bringing items from your menu or ingredients
	If you plan to give favors such as a candle or soap, pick some up now Or delegate to a co-host or guest

Day of your Mother Blessing

As you scurry around to get everything ready, remember that the mood is supposed to be tranquil and peaceful, so stop and take a few deep breaths every now and then!

	Get any food ready to be served; prepare any tea or beverages If you will be eating before the ceremony, set out food ahead of time Otherwise, keep food set away in refrigerator or counter
	Get room or area where main part of ceremony will be conducted ready Arrange chairs and/or floor pillows in a circle Have all music, note cards, ritual supplies in a handy place Arrange any fresh flowers or other natural bouquets
	Just before guests begin to arrive, set the mood by lowering lights, light candles, fire, incense.
	Relax as you greet your guests and enjoy the day!