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What is a Baby Shower ?
The traditional way to rejoice the
impending birth of a new baby can be defined as a baby shower.
It is usually organized in the last stages of pregnancy like in
the eighth or ninth month. The trend is to give gifts that the
new parents will usually need for the baby ranging from kids
stuff to money. Some parents even encourage the guests to bring
gifts like DVDs, frozen dinners or even baby-sitting coupons
(however, this is common for the baby shower for the second or
third child).
Who throws the shower?
Traditionally the shower is thrown by family member from either
sides of the family. Nonetheless, any body close to the would-be
parents (not necessarily relations) can throw the shower-from
friends to colleagues.
Organizing a baby shower
Arranging a baby shower can be a very difficult affair. Lots of
decision needs to be taken and mostly it is the responsibility
of the host to plan the baby shower. While earlier it was
considered as bad etiquette for a close relative of the
expecting mother (which included the mother or siblings) to
organize a shower, today it is okay for anybody except the
would-be mother, to host a baby shower. Since the idea of a baby
shower is gift giving, throwing ones own baby shower does not
give a very pleasant picture of the new mother.
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When to
throw a baby shower?
As discussed above, a baby shower is generally hosted a couple
of months before the expected date. To have a successful show, a
great deal of planning is required. It is suggested that the
host does things that will be liked by the would-be mother thus
making not only a great baby shower but also a memorable
experience for the guest of honor.
In many cultures, the shower is organized after the birth of the
baby. Celebrating before the child is born is often considered
as bad luck. Nevertheless, there are quite a few advantages of
this after birth show - the guests can bring presents that are
sex specific, engrave the baby’s name on the gift; this is also
a great opportunity for the new mother to introduce her new born
to her family and friends.
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Who
should be invited in the baby shower?
The guest list completely depends on the host and the expecting
parents. In case of a work place shower, only colleagues and co
workers can be invited; for a family shower only close family
members can be called and for a grand and one shower all can be
invited. However, there is something that needs to be kept in
mind before organizing such a show. Extra care must be taken
while inviting friends and relatives suffering from infertility
problems or have suffered miscarriages. It is best to talk to
them, asking them if they would like to be a part of the shower
and respect their situation both ways.
Couples Baby Shower
Unlike the olden times when the shower program revolved around
women and women related traditions, the modern day baby shower
includes both the men and women. In fact this is becoming a very
popular concept in today’s world. Nevertheless it is important
to remember that a couple’s baby shower is generally a more
family affair so it is better not to invite colleagues and co
workers in the same party. Also a great significance must be
attached to food and the menu (isn’t it natural that food takes
the key role when men are around!). It must also be kept in mind
that the ratio between men and women must be almost the same;
gift opening is one of the most exiting events in a baby shower;
so make sure that the couple opens their gift together.
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Baby
shower themes
Some typical baby shower themes are listed below:
• The nursery décor theme – decorating the place with colorful
baby pictures, cartoons and other kids stuff lends a beautiful
ambience to the party.
• Around-the-clock shower theme – this is an interesting theme
in which each of the invitee is given a particular time of the
day to purchase his/her gift so that the present can be used for
that particular time of the day. For instance buying clothes at
9 AM for the baby’s day clothes; buying a baby bed at 1 PM for
the afternoon nap or buying diapers (at any time) for the full
day.
• New Mother shower – finally a shower for the would-be mother
instead of the usual baby one. Nice gifts would be a great treat
for the new mamma.
Apart from these, various other themes can be invented for
organizing such a show. |
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What are the
common activities?
This can either be related to the theme of the party or include the
standard games, food and presents.
What food
can be served to the guests?
This can also depend on the theme of the party. However, the most
important aspect is the time of the day when the party has been
organized. A shower given in the afternoon or early evening requires
high tea arrangements like cakes, muffins and brownies (or any light
snacks according to the host’s choice), for a shower at noon or
dinner time calls for a full meal. It should also be considered that
the food served is according to the taste and choice of the mother.
Serving alcohol is not a very good idea. Fruit punches or other
mocktails and non alcoholic beverages can be provided.
The modern day shower – Web Baby Shower
With the advent of the internet, Web Baby Shower is gaining immense
popularity amongst the new generation parents-to-be. Typically this
online baby shower program includes a message board and photographs.
Of course it can be customized and made grand or simple as desired
by the host. One can innovative and also include nice stories, fun
games, lots of good wishes and pregnancy updates. The reason for its
growing recognition can be attributed to the following reasons:
• In this new age of nuclear families, almost all the expecting
parents are far away from their near and dear ones. An online shower
is an excellent method to bring the “congratulations” and good
wishes from all those people.
• In many cases due to complications, expecting mothers are advised
complete bed rest by their gynecologists. Web Baby Shower is a great
way to gather all the family and friends without exerting herself
and also a brilliant technique to cheer her up.
• In addition to the traditional baby shower, an online shower can
be organized even after the event to share the cherishable moments
with those who were unable to make it for the party.
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Article Contributed By: Sukanya
Banerjee
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