Baby showers have been celebrated since ancient times, with the first recorded baby shower being thrown by the ancient Romans. In more recent years, baby showers were connected to specific cultures like Chinese and British culture. They were traditionally held to celebrate the birth of a new baby, but now they are also used as an opportunity for family and friends to give gifts and provide support to soon-to-be moms.
A baby shower is an exciting event where family and friends gather to celebrate the impending arrival of a new baby. It’s also an opportunity to give gifts, share stories, and offer support to the mom-to-be. If you’re planning a baby shower, there are a few important things you should know. Let’s dive in!
Who Pays for the Shower?
Traditionally, the expectant mother's family or close friends host the shower. That said, it is becoming increasingly common for parents-to-be to pay for their own showers. It's important to talk this over with whoever is hosting the shower so that everyone is on the same page about who will be paying for what.
When Should It Be Held?
It's best to plan your baby shower at least six weeks before your due date (or even earlier if you're expecting multiples). As the mother-to-be gets closer to the due date, moving around and socializing will get more difficult and you want to make sure she will be able to enjoy herself at the party. This will also make it easier to have the nursery ready in time for the big day!
Where Should You Hold The Shower?
The venue will depend on how many people are attending and how formal or casual you'd like it to be. Some popular options include restaurants, parks, community centers, churches, homes, or backyards. Typically speaking you'll want a space large enough for everyone invited plus any extra chairs and tables you might need.
Who Gets Invited?
Be sure to create a guest list early on so you can get an accurate headcount for food and seating needs. Ask mom-to-be if there are any family members or friends she would like included — but keep in mind that not all showers are coed events so make sure you're clear with everyone about who is invited when sending out invites! Also consider inviting other pregnant women in your circle of friends — they may appreciate being able to come together and celebrate each other's pregnancies!
Food Suggestions & Game Ideas
For food ideas consider serving light snacks such as sandwiches, wraps or salads along with mini desserts like cupcakes or cake pops if desired. For games think about activities like decorating onesies, puzzles like baby word scramble, or baby shower bingo (guests complete a bingo board with items they think are in the presents then cross off the corresponding blocks as the gifts are opened until someone gets bingo). You could also ask attendees to bring diapers as part of their entrance fee for a raffle – winner gets a prize! Of course, no baby shower would be complete without fun games like "guess the melted chocolate bar" or "guess which baby food tastes best". Lastly - don't forget favors! Small items like candy bags filled with treats make great parting gifts for guests.
What Do The Guys Do During The Shower?
Traditionally speaking men weren't part of baby showers but these days more couples are choosing to invite them – especially if dad wants some bonding time with the mother-to-be! Men can play games alongside everyone else (especially those involving physical activity!) Or they can chat amongst themselves while women focus on celebrating mom-to-be in other ways such as decorating onesies or writing advice cards. If it's not possible for him join during the baby shower, he could always arrive near the end with flowers for her special day! This not only provides him an opportunity to help open the gifts and thank everyone for coming, but also to meet anyone he doesn't already know and help load and transport the presents home.
Hosting a baby shower can be an exciting yet daunting experience. It requires plenty of organization, preparation and patience. However, with a solid plan in place and help from friends and family, the event is sure to be an enjoyable one. From deciding on a theme to providing food and drink, paying attention to detail is key in ensuring that the guests have the best possible time. Best of luck with hosting your next baby shower – it’s sure to be a beautiful celebration of love!
Don't forget to cherish every moment as you watch your loved one start their new life journey!