To Baby Shower or Not to Baby Shower: that is the question

Although it traditionally stems from the ‘baby boomer’ generation, Baby Showers are still incredibly popular today. All around the world different cultures celebrate the arrival of a baby in various ways. Baby Showers can take place before or after the birth of the baby, can be attended by just women or with men too, and can be as intimate or elaborate as you desire. The one thing in common for all communities is that they are filled with family and friends, fun, food and gifts for the mother and baby. Plenty of options, but where do you start?

The Guest List for a Baby Shower

The likelihood is that there are many people who are just as excited as you (if not more excited!) for the baby’s arrival. Grandparents, in-laws, cousins and maybe even neighbours are just some of the people you may wish to consider to take part. It’s common that it will be organised by a close family member or friend and so it is worth checking in with your designated organiser on your expectations. A growing trend is to have the partner more involved for a bit of togetherness, it’s also a nice way for both you to enjoy opening gifts together.

If you tend to shy away from being the centre of attention, don’t completely rule it out. Many women claim that afterwards they feel more excited and positive about where they are in their motherhood journey. After all, it’s likely you’ll want to lean upon some of your nearest and dearest in the months and years to come, so why not bring them all together to celebrate.

Activities and what to Consider for your Baby Shower

Whether you would prefer an elegant and luxurious affair or something more playful, it is a good idea to have a rough plan for the day.

Here are some tips on the core elements of the day:

1. Games

For playful games, here are some ideas: guess how big the bump is, guess the ages from childhood picture of the mum-to-be and guess baby items in a bag.

For the more elegant event, giving baby name ideas, sharing favourite childhood experiences or writing a loving note in a stylish memory book are all great to look back on.

2. Food

A buffet is the most common way to provide food on the day as it is generally the easier way to cater for a group. The alternative is an a-la-carte menu at a venue for which option and timing needs to be considered, especially if you plan some games throughout. It’s common to ask your guests to contribute. It is usually best requested some weeks in advance so there is no financial concerns on the day.

Why not try the relatively new at-home dining experience, where catering staff can deliver to the comfort of your own home. In 2020, there was the biggest rise in demand for this. So it could be a good excuse to try this out, if you haven’t done so already.

3. Gifts & Favours

Setting up a registry list is a good way to ensure that items you need are covered. It’s also a great way for your friends and family to feel part of the baby’s journey being able to physically see them in the baby grows, a bouncer chair or sleeping pod. Bringing a baby into the world is a costly life milestone and so having a little support on this through gifts can reduce a little stress.

However, if a registry feels a bit too formal for you, consider asking for subscription services. In the new-born stage, there is little time for you to think beyond feeding your baby and sleeping. Therefore, having subscriptions set-up for you for either your food deliveries or rented baby’s clothes and toys, will help take a load off your mind.

Overall, a baby shower doesn’t need to be gimmicky or over-the-top. It can simply be a moment to pause and celebrate the wonder that is pregnancy and bringing a child into the world with the closest people in your life. Amongst the celebrations, it’s crucial that the mother’s needs are not to be forgotten. After all, pregnancy and the immediate time after birth is one of the most enduring feats a women’s body and mind undergoes. Having your family and friends show up and be there for you in whatever form you prefer is truly invaluable.