Baby showers are such a special event for an expectant mom. It’s a time when friends and family openly express their excitement about and love for the baby on the way.
Are traditional baby showers (also called stork parties) a thing of the past? It appears this special occasion for mums-to-be is being reinvented.
Traditionally, baby showers were an opportunity to give advice and help new parents prepare, but with today’s parents often waiting until they can afford everything, is it still necessary? Do we still need to gift expensive toys, gadgets and clothing?
taking account
Baby showers can be expensive. We spoke to an event and party organiser, who said baby showers can cost between R3 000 and R10 000. That price tag is for everything from invitations and favours to food and drinks, and the event planner’s fee.
However, baby shower presents can be valuable. One mom, Amanda*, says she received baby things that others had found useful. “I got goodies that lasted pretty much throughout my daughter’s first year,” she shares, commenting that her surprise shower made her feel special at a time when she felt uncomfortable. Knowing that your baby is loved and supported by friends and family is an invaluable gift for a new mom.
Find some ideas for gifts here and some recommended gadgets for newborns here.
top trends
As social circles expand, baby showers are getting bigger and being reinvented. “Themes are a big focus,” says the event planner, “with novelty cakes and other decorative touches being added.”
Occasionally fathers-to-be have man-showers, a braai or drinks where mates bring nappies. An international trend is the sip-and-see, held after a baby is born, where friends and family meet the baby and drink champagne. Guests may bring gifts, but the focus is more on celebrating the baby and providing support to the parents. For those who don’t believe in throwing baby showers before a child is born, this is one way to celebrate.
Gender reveal parties are also popular, usually taking place around the 18-20 week ultrasound examination. Instead of telling you the gender, your doctor writes it on a piece of paper. The most common gender reveal is one where the baker, who has been given the paper from the doctor, bakes a pink or blue cake covered with neutral icing. The couple, close family and friends find out the gender together when they cut into the cake. Felicity*, a mom who found out this way, said she wanted it to be a surprise, and the gender reveal party became a special memory. Other gender reveals are also done by releasing the appropriately coloured balloon or hitting a piñata filled with pink or blue candy or toys.
cautionary note
If you have your heart set on a particular gender, however, you may want to find out privately!
more than one child?
Showers for second or third children are on the rise, especially if you’re expecting a different gender. For many people, it’s normal among friends and family to get together for a meal or tea and bring small gifts for any subsequent children. These presents are mostly clothes and there is usually a gift for the older child/children. If second- or third-time moms do have everything they need, but still want to celebrate, you can host a sprinkle – a smaller shower where guests aren’t expected to give as much.
You can tailor a baby shower to suit any budget and the mom-to-be. Regardless of how you celebrate, the most value comes from celebrating the new arrival and in offering support.
*Names have been changed for privacy.
