Baby Showers - Pregnancy Fun for Mothers-to-Be!
Baby showers have become increasingly popular worldwide in recent years. The reason for this is partly down to the fact that families in general are smaller, so individual babies get more attention than in years gone by! And whereas it was common practice in the past to only hold a baby shower for first-born babies, nowadays baby showers are often held for each new baby joining a family and also for adopted children.
Traditionally baby showers were held for both parents and organised by female friends of the parents with only female attendees. However, again things are changing and it is now common for men to be a part of the baby shower and to even host men-only baby showers.
Normally the parents-to-be and their extended family play no part in arranging their baby shower as it is primarily a gift-giving event. It is also the accepted norm to hold the shower away from the expectant mother's home as she should not have to play any part in the preparations or after-party clean-up! Although sometimes the host will inform the parents of the event, it is also common for it to be kept completely secret so that it will come as a total surprise to them!
Very often baby showers have a cultural influence which is obviously dictated by the beliefs of the host and the expectant parents.
Baby shower invitations are sent out to family and friends of the parents to be and often baby shower themes are an important part of the event.
Baby showers are relatively new to the UK and many other European countries, having been only recently imported from the US. As a result UK businesses are taking notice with many now catering for this new phenomenon and many baby shops now offer lists where parents can note the gifts they would like for their baby, much as they do when planning their wedding list!
Baby showers can be held at any time, either shortly before or shortly after childbirth, and anywhere the host chooses. Usually snacks will be prepared in advance for guests and baby-themed games are played. It is also common for the host to offer party favours for the guests as they leave.
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