Time for the Baby Shower
The baby shower is a party to celebrate the expected arrival of the first child. Or, in some cultures, to acknowledge the transformation of a woman into a mother.
Activities at baby showers include gift-giving and playing maternity-themed games. In fact, the main purpose of the event is usually to “shower” the expectant mother with gifts.
Wikipedia suggests the name is similar to a “bridal shower.” It “may have derived its name from the custom in the 19th century for the presents to be put inside a parasol which, when opened, would ‘shower’ the bride-to-be with gifts.”
On one level, the party is a way for the bride’s friends and family to help out. They give her things she’ll need when the baby is born – from diapers and clothing to nursery items, toys and more.
But perhaps a more traditional view is that a baby shower provides an opportunity to gather together the community who will help the mother. You’ve probably heard the old saying: “it takes a village to raise a child.” (It’s definitely a good time to find out who can help with babysitting!)
That’s why a baby shower is more than opening gifts and enjoying light snacks. It’s all about catching up with friends and family.
Some tips for a fun baby shower
- Choose a good friend to organize your shower. Your mom and sisters probably don’t know all of your network. (And sometimes, family members are reluctant to be seen as “asking” for gifts.)
- Invite plenty of people! It’s a great opportunity to catch up and, let’s face it, you get more gifts with a bigger crowd!
- Plan the menu carefully. Light snacks, hors d’oeuvres and ‘finger food’ are easily prepared ahead of time and plates can be passed around. But there should be cake.
- Let the alcohol flow, especially “bubbles” because it’s a celebration, right? And plenty of wine helps stimulate conversation, plus it makes the games even more fun!
- Appoint a “gift handler.” If you’re going to open gifts at the event, this person can keep track of ‘who and what’. And they can be responsible for getting the gifts back to your home, too.
- Create an “Advice Box” with paper, pencil and a slot in the top. Now, if somebody wants to share how they coped with their marathon labor, ask them to put their advice in the box. You might find a few good tips in there, too.
- Set a time limit. Three hours is more than enough.
