What is a baby shower?

Traditionally, a baby shower is held only for the expectant mother and only women attend. However, recently men have started to participate in a couple's baby shower. Some people choose to have baby showers for both parents, and some people have a men only shower. In Jewish tradition, a celebration and gift reception is held after the birth of a baby.

 
In the UK and other European countries baby showers are a relatively new conception imported from the USA.  Traditionally, baby showers were given only for the family's first child, but over time, it has become general practice to hold them for every subsequent birth. Even when a shower is held for only the first child, it is not uncommon for a parent to have more than one baby shower, such as one with friends and another with co-workers.
 

While there are no established guidelines for what constitutes a baby shower, there are some traditional activities that are common at baby showers. Traditionally, the shower is given for the expected parent(s) by someone else as opposed to the parent(s) hosting it. Usually, the mother's maid of honour, or bridesmaids at her wedding, hosts this final event into motherhood for their bride.


There are gifts, and games all coordinated by the host(s). Invitations are sent out, by the organisers, on behalf of the Mother/Parents, just like at a traditional bridal shower. Because the party centres on gift giving, the baby shower is generally arranged by a close friend. There is no set rule for when or where showers are to be held and the party can thus be held at a variety of places and at various times. It is common for the host to provide baby themed games during the shower.


There is great variance in practices and themes of baby showers. Some people prefer to hold showers after the birth of the baby. Some believe that giving gifts before the baby is born can bring bad luck.

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