El baby shower It is a very popular celebration that takes place shortly before the birth of a baby. Traditionally, it is a gathering in which family and friends gather to celebrate the arrival of a new member to the family and provide the future parents with useful gifts for the newborn. Although it was originally an event exclusive to women, today it has become common to celebrate mixed baby showers, in which the future father and other men close to the family also participate.
In this article, we will tell you not only what it consists of and what is the origin of this endearing celebration, but also How to organize a perfect baby showerWe will give you ideas about decoration, guests, games and, of course, the most appropriate gifts for the occasion.
What is a baby shower?
A baby shower is a party organized in honor of the future mother and her baby, usually held during the last trimester of pregnancy. It is usually held from the sixth or seventh month of pregnancy, when the mother still has enough energy to enjoy the event and, at the same time, the pregnancy is sufficiently advanced to be able to share the exciting wait with the guests.
At this time, friends, family and people close to the pregnant woman gather to offer her quality time and many gifts, which can range from clothes and toys to more important products such as a crib, a stroller or even furniture for the baby's room.
There are several customs that vary from one country to another, and in some places it has even become a kind of social rite, a unique moment to share good wishes and advice with the future mother.
Who is organizing the baby shower?
Traditionally, a baby shower was usually organized by a close friend of the mother-to-be or by a close family member. However, nowadays it is common for the mother-to-be herself to participate in the organization or even plan it entirely. It is also common to hire a event planner to make sure that nothing is missing on this special day.
A recent trend is the organization of surprise baby showers, in which the closest friends plan the event without the protagonist knowing, achieving an unforgettable moment.
Baby shower decoration
Baby shower decorations are one of the key aspects to making the party festive and welcoming. There are various theme options that can be used, from soft and pastel colors to more specific decorations such as fairy tale characters or forest animals.
- Colors: Although the traditional colors are pink for girls and blue for boys, many people opt for neutral tones such as yellow, green and white, which adds an elegant touch to the celebration.
- Balloons and garlands: They are essential elements for any baby shower. Helium balloons in the shape of baby bottles, ducklings or letters that spell out the baby's name are a popular choice.
- Centerpieces: Personalizing the table with paper or real flowers, small stuffed animals or decorative baby bottles can add to the charm of the event.
- decorative letters: Placing the baby's name in large letters or LED lights has become a popular trend in this type of celebration.
- Photo call: A dedicated photo corner with props and fun messages, like “expecting mom,” is perfect for creating unforgettable memories.
Whatever style you choose, it is important that the decoration reflects the personality of the mother-to-be and conveys joy and sweetness.
Who to invite to the baby shower?
When organizing a baby shower, one of the first steps is to establish the Guest List. It is most traditional to invite close family members, friends, and coworkers. However, because this celebration has become more versatile and can include both men and women, it is important that the mother feels comfortable with the group of people present.
Ideally, the event should be intimate and include people the mother-to-be is close to. Some people prefer to hold these events in small groups to avoid crowding, while others enjoy the possibility of including more people, which may require larger spaces.
Traditional baby shower gifts
A baby shower is a great opportunity for friends and family to provide the parents-to-be with the items you may need for the baby. Common gifts include:
- Clothing: Bodysuits, pajamas, hats and booties are essential gifts for babies.
- diapers: You can never have enough diapers, and some baby showers even focus exclusively on these types of gifts.
- Hygiene products: Talcum powder, wet wipes, soap, skin creams and other products are always useful.
- Furniture: Cribs, bassinets or changing tables are larger but very useful gifts.
- Small toys: Stuffed animals and rattles are always welcome at a baby shower.
A practical option is for the parents-to-be to prepare a gift list from a local store or online so that guests have a better idea of what they need. This prevents duplicate gifts and ensures that everything received is useful. It is also possible for guests to pool their money to purchase more expensive items.
Games to liven up the baby shower
Baby showers are known to include funny Games which help all attendees enjoy the event in an enjoyable way. Some of the most common games are:
- Guess the mother's waist: Guests should estimate the circumference of the pregnant woman's belly using ribbons or thread.
- Who is the baby: Guests must bring photos of themselves when they were babies, and the challenge is to guess who each image belongs to.
- Taste test for porridge: Different types of baby purees are offered and participants have to guess what flavour they are.
- Guess what's in the bag: A baby-related item is placed in an opaque bag, and guests must guess what it is just by touch.
These games not only provide entertainment, but also help break the ice if there are guests who don't know each other very well. Plus, they offer an opportunity to take funny photos and share anecdotes.
Food and drink
Food is a key aspect of any baby shower. It is usually organised as a snack, as this type of event is usually held in the afternoon. Some menu ideas are:
- Variety of sweets: Personalized cupcakes, cookies with the theme of the event and special cakes with decorations alluding to the baby.
- Salty snacks: Gourmet sandwiches, small empanadas, cheese and cold cuts boards.
- Refreshing drinks: Natural juices, lemonade, fruit water and non-alcoholic cocktails are ideal for the mother-to-be to toast as well.
In many cases a candies table or a “Candy Bar” as part of the decoration, which also allows guests to serve themselves at their own pace without the need for waiters.
An important recommendation is to avoid foods that pregnant women cannot consume, such as raw fish, sausages or unpasteurized cheeses, to ensure their well-being.
Celebrating a baby shower is an unforgettable occasion for both the mother-to-be and her guests. It is an opportunity to share the joy of the baby's arrival and for the parents-to-be to receive the support of their close circle. Whether it is a simple party or an elaborate event, the most important thing is the company and affection that is provided at such a significant moment.