How to be prepared for a baby shower?
Photo by Mediamodifier on Unsplash
So you’ve been invited to your best friend’s baby shower to celebrate the birth of a new life into the world. This is a momentous occasion, particularly for the new parents, as it signals the transition into parenthood, which is one of the most memorable moments in life. However, for those unfamiliar with proceedings, the day can be fraught with issues like worrying about what gifts to buy, what you should wear, and everything in between. If this sounds like your situation and you are afraid of ruining the happy parents’ special day, then this post is for you.
Bring a meaningful gift
This first tip is slightly ambiguous as the word” meaningful” can mean different things to different folks. Nonetheless, if you’re really struggling, the first thing is to break it down as to what gender the child will be. Now, the subject of gender is somewhat contentious these days, so you should probably ask your friend how they are dealing with that situation. If they are going down the traditional route, you will want to begin looking for gender-relevant gifts. For instance, if you know it will be a girl, you can start searching for baby girl gifts that will actually be useful for the parents-to-be. In most cases, new parents will be happy to simply receive a range of items that will help them with their child’s daily needs, such as plates, bowls, and clothing. Alternatively, a trend has emerged consisting of charming, handcrafted baby blankets and bespoke onesies adorned with the infant’s name. Such gifts exemplify thoughtfulness and effort, undoubtedly elevating their significance. Moreover, accompanying the present with a heartfelt card or note provides the perfect avenue for expressing well wishes and congratulations.
Call ahead of time to confirm the details
While this might not be a baby shower-specific tip, it will pay to double-check the details. After all, it’s not your day, and you really don’t want to be the one who has yet to show up and impede things for everyone else. Moreover, taking the initiative to phone in advance opens up the possibility of discovering any scheduled games or activities for the occasion (more about that a bit later). This proactive step enables you to mentally gear up and brainstorm innovative ways to engage. In addition, don’t hesitate to inquire about any unique cultural or religious practices to be honored, allowing you to approach these customs with conscious respect. It might not sound like a big deal, but getting a head start by confirming event specifics beforehand is a subtle yet invaluable measure towards enhancing preparedness. This forethought ultimately elevates the experience for all participants, ensuring your attendance will enrich the festivities with purpose and positivity.
Dress in appropriate attire
This point will depend entirely on the kind of party the parents are throwing. Some prefer to keep things casual, while others will go all out and expect their guests to dress in an appropriate manner. Nevertheless, you should have received instructions with your invitation, but if not, you can always double-check when you phone ahead a la the previous section. Keep in mind that the baby shower is centered on celebrating the expectant mother and her incoming bundle of joy. Therefore, it’s essential not to overshadow them by opting for unsuitable attire. By consciously choosing appropriate clothing, you demonstrate your admiration for the event and its participants.
Take lot of pictures to remember the day
In reality, you won’t need to worry too much about taking photos since everyone seems to be a photographer these days, thanks to the proliferation of smartphones. Furthermore, they might also have hired a professional to document the day. Nonetheless, there might be times when the perfect shot rears its head, and nobody else has seen the opportunity. In these moments, you can snap the photo, and you might end up taking a genuinely remarkable image that you can gif to the parents for posterity. If you are a naturally prodigious snapper, consider dedicating some moments post-event to collate and refine the captured photographs. Transform them into a digital compilation or a thoughtfully crafted scrapbook, or even gift the mother-to-be with tangible copies to cherish as a sentimental memento. Immortalizing these images ensures that the elation and exuberance of the baby shower remain vivid, ready to be revisited in the years to come.
Ask the mom-to-be what she needs the most
If you are completely novice to the idea of a baby shower or are worried about what the mum-to-be might think of your gift (we all have that one friend), then being upfront and simply asking them what they want might be the best policy. Remember that the expectant mother might harbor specific inclinations toward baby items, such as a penchant for organic or environmentally conscious materials or an affinity for a particular brand. Inquiring about her requirements guarantees your present’s utility and gratitude. You can engage her directly or consult with someone close to her. Also, check if she has established a registry or curated wish list where you can learn about the essentials her baby will need. This approach offers you an unambiguous understanding of suitable and unsuitable purchases.
Participate in the baby shower games and activities
Not all baby showers will have games and activities, and many will be decidedly chill affairs where everyone gathers around and hangs out. However, you will find that some showers are fun-filled events, with the idea being to create joy and laughter to start off on the right foot. Throughout the occasion, embrace the prospect of engaging in games and activities. Stepping out of your comfort zone and immersing yourself in fun contributes to a memorable experience. Remember that these recreational moments aim to unite attendees in the joyful anticipation of the baby’s entrance into the world. Taking part in the baby shower’s games and activities is a terrific way to bond with the future mom and the other guests, as well as have a good time. In fact, you should relish the chance to let down your hair and take a break from the routine of everyday life if but for a day!
A baby shower is a one-of-a-kind occasion in the lives of the expecting mother and her friends. You are celebrating the entrance to the world of a brand new life and showing your support for your friend.