Like the “gender reveal party” or the “babymoon”, the baby shower comes from the United States and celebrates pregnancy in a friendly way. Also known as a “prenatal celebration”, and gradually becoming more popular in France, many expectant mothers have the delightful surprise of finding themselves surrounded by their loved ones on the eve of the big day. 

What are the secrets to a successful baby shower?
Here are a few ideas! 

What is a baby shower? 

Typically Anglo-Saxon, a baby shower is a prenatal celebration organised for the expectant mother by her loved ones. It is an opportunity, of course, to mark the occasion, but also to offer advice, give gifts to the parents and the baby-to-be, reminisce, enjoy a savoury or sweet buffet… And organise a few activities! 

Who should organise it?

Loved ones, best friends, sisters, cousins… Traditionally, it is mainly female figures who take part in planning the entire event. Of course, over time, it has become a celebration that can just as easily be organised by the partner, close friends and the mother’s entire social circle! And why not simply organise a baby shower for the expectant parents?

What are the benefits of a baby shower? 

This celebration is much more than just a party! It leaves a lasting impression on expectant parents on the eve of meeting their unborn child. It also provides an opportunity to enjoy loved ones and family before the long weeks shaped by the newborn. Finally, a baby shower is an opportunity simply to offer advice during those first steps into parenthood and, above all, to receive gifts for the baby. It truly makes the arrival of a child feel real.

When should it be organised?

Towards the end of the pregnancy, usually in the seventh or eighth month. It is a celebration with no strict rules and can be adapted to all expectant mothers depending on how they feel and, of course, what they want… It is also entirely possible to plan a baby shower after the baby is born. Whatever happens, the hardest part will probably be getting everyone together and setting a date; we recommend sending invitations one to two months before the desired date. 

How do you prepare a baby shower? 

• The venue 

It is a celebration that can be organised on a grand scale or kept intimate, at a restaurant, at home or at a friend’s house, outdoors if the weather allows… 

• The guests 

Depending on the expectant parents’ wishes, circumstances, budget and availability, a baby shower can be a grand celebration or an intimate tea party. 

• The theme and decorations

Sometimes, it is a good idea to choose a theme that will determine the atmosphere, activities and perhaps even the menu! This theme can also tie in with the child’s gender reveal… Many venues offer suitable decorations that can enhance the room: napkins, tableware, bunting, balloons of all kinds—you can let your imagination run wild. 

• The menu 

For once, whether at home or in a restaurant, treat the mother, who for the first time in her pregnancy will be relieved to know that no ingredient or drink is incompatible with her condition as a pregnant woman! 

The menu can match the chosen theme or simply be a treat, with a savoury or sweet buffet to nibble on throughout the day. 

• Activities 

Plan games, friendship keepsakes and advice about motherhood… These are even more lasting memories and shared emotions! The great baby shower classics are maternity and baby-to-be quizzes, timed games such as the nappy game and, of course, workshops. But you can also plan a spa day, an outing or a weekend away with friends.  

• Gifts

And yes, a baby shower is a bit like a birthday: the highlight of the day is, of course, the gifts! For the parent and for the child, it is best to think of both! A changing bag, little bodysuits, soft toys, pyjamas, and perhaps more substantial gifts such as a pram, a Moses basket or furniture… Charlie Crane can help you choose the gift that will make all the difference for expectant parents. 

-> Charlie Crane newborn gift selection

 

In conclusion, the perfect baby shower does not exist; its success lies in the emotions it brings, and heaven knows there will be plenty of them… Friends, family, loved ones, enjoy it: it is a unique, magical moment that marks the beginning of a new life!