What exactly is a Baby Shower?
A baby shower celebrates the upcoming birth of a beloved baby girl or boy. Family and friends come together to show their love and support for the mother-to-be. The event usually includes refreshments, games, and lots of thoughtful gifts to make sure parents-to-be have everything they need for their child.
Why is it called a Baby ‘Shower’?
The main purpose of the baby shower is to give the mom-to-be everything she needs for her newborn. Loved ones refer to this as “showering” the mother with gifts, from which the event got its name.
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Where Did the Baby Shower Tradition Come From?
There are many theories about the history of baby showers. Some believe that baby showers date back to ancient times, while others say they began in the 1940s in America. The different seasons are probably due to the concept of a baby shower changing significantly over time.
One idea is that baby showers began around or before 1500 AD among Native Americans when people gave gifts to pregnant women. Another school of thought says that baby showers originated with the Egyptians and Greeks.
They gave gifts, not to the mother but to their gods.
It may have taken some time, but eventually baby showers went all over the world. Since many different cultures and places are involved, it seems that these festivals have become a kind of world collaboration.
The history of baby showers is not so straightforward. However, we do know that it eventually evolved into what it is today. Family and friends have the opportunity to gather, give gifts to the new parents, and celebrate the birth of a child. Like many traditions, it is a mix of many ideas, traditions, and customs, which in turn means, there are many types of baby showers out there.
Who Should Attend the Baby Shower?
You should invite the mom-to-be’s close family and friends to the shower. That includes parents, grandparents, siblings, and best friends, but co-workers, neighbors, and other friends can also be great additions to the celebration, if they’re close to Mom. If the guestlist seems like too many ‘acquaintances’, consider hosting multiple showers instead. This is a great solution for if your invitation list is getting a little long, but you still want to include everyone.
Who Should Have a Baby Shower?
A close friend or family member traditionally serves as the baby shower host. But it’s ok to ask a less “traditional” loved one to host the event. Really, anyone who does an amazing job planning and organizing a shower is a great choice.
What if you’re the mom-to-be and want to host your own baby shower? That’s okay too! More and more moms are choosing to throw themselves for a variety of reasons. We’re also seeing a lot of parents-to-be planning their own virtual shower.
When Should You Have a Baby Shower?
You want to allow plenty of time before the baby arrives to have a baby shower. The showers usually occur anywhere from 28 to 32 weeks of pregnancy. This gives plenty of time before the baby arrives for mom to prepare the nursery with lavish gifts from loved ones. This time frame is when mom is still mobile and can walk around easily, making it a more enjoyable experience for her.
Baby Shower Venues
There are so many great baby shower venue options to choose from. Locations may include a community clubhouse, a church hall, or a rustic barn venue. Match your venue to your theme by hosting a spring-themed shower in a tearoom, or a nautical-themed shower in an oceanside restaurant. If a friend or family member wants to open their home to guests, a house party is also a good option.
Are there some distant relatives on the guest list? Consider hosting a virtual baby shower to include those who can’t attend in person.
Planning a Baby Shower
Hosting a baby shower takes a lot of planning and organization. Your baby shower checklist should include these important steps:
- Set a budget
- Create a guest list
- Choose a theme
- Book a venue
- Send invitations and collect RSVPs
- Decide on food and decor
- Plan games
- Prepare gifts and party favors
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New Baby Shower Traditions
More and more baby shower hosts are breaking away from traditional shower rules to create an event that best supports the mother-to-be. Modern baby showers include hosting virtual events, throwing co-ed showers, and choosing unconventional themes.
The best “rules” to follow are inclusive baby shower etiquette that allows mom to have the event she deserves. Just follow the baby shower etiquette that will help you stay organized and make your celebration a success.
FAQs
Should you throw a baby shower for a second (or third or fourth) child?
Every baby should be celebrated. That’s why it’s perfectly acceptable to host a shower for a second, third, or fourth baby. Sometimes hosts will throw a baby sprinkle, which is a lighter version of the shower. This is a great option if the newbie already has some hand-me-downs from siblings like a crib, stroller, etc.
Do baby showers need games and themes?
While games and themes aren’t required at a baby shower, they add to the experience of your guests. The games keep the guests entertained throughout the event. Consider throwing some of these fun baby shower games.
Having a baby shower theme helps to coordinate your decor, menu, games, shower invitations, and other elements for a cohesive feel. Whether you go with teddy bears, superheroes, unicorns, spring flowers, or another theme, it adds an element of fun.
What are co-ed showers?
Co-ed showers include male and female guests. This inclusive baby shower is becoming more and more popular and is a fun experience for everyone. Co-ed showers can include BBQ or sports themes, karaoke, lawn games, and more. Check out more ways to host a great co-ed baby shower.
Should you register for baby shower gifts?
It’s up to the mom-to-be if she wants to register for baby shower gifts. Some expectant mothers prefer to have a registry that lets visitors know exactly what they need for their child. It also makes it easier for distant loved ones to buy and send gifts directly to the mother-to-be.
While a registry may feel like it’s asking for guests, a baby shower is meant to provide the parents with baby essentials.
Should you send thank you notes to the people who attended your baby shower, and when?
You should send thank you notes to your baby shower guests and anyone who sent you a gift. Usually 2-3 weeks after the shower is customary. As you write your thank you card, show your appreciation for any gifts you received and the love and support from your guests.
