Baby Shower Traditions and Trends

Traditionally, a baby shower is held only for the mother-to-be and only women attend. However, recently men are also starting to participate in a couple’s baby shower, although the original intent was for women to share wisdom and lessons on the art of becoming a mother.

Many people choose to have baby showers for both parents, and some people have a men-only shower. In Jewish tradition and Ethiopian tradition since long ago, a celebration and gift reception is held only after the birth of a child. Though some American Jews may be the exception regarding this tradition.

In countries like UK, France and other European countries, baby showers are a new phenomenon, recently imported from the United States. UK businesses are now starting to respond to this opportunity. In some countries some shops provide Newborn Lists, where the parents select the gifts that they need for the baby, to avoid duplicate or unnecessary presents.

Baby showers are increasingly popular in Africa, Asia and Latin America, but are “women-only” social gatherings. In Hindu tradition, they are called by different names depending on the community the family belongs to. There is music played, the expecting mother is decked in traditional attire with lots of flowers and garlands made of Jasmine or Mogra. A swing is decorated with flowers of her choice which she uses to sit and swing. At times there are symbolic cut-outs of Moons and Stars that are put up. There are blessings showered on her by the elderly ladies from the household and community. There are gifts given to the expecting mother. It is a very affection and fun filled event for most of the expecting mothers since they are on the threshold of motherhood and entering a new life.

Traditionally, baby showers were given only for the family’s first child, but over time, it has become more common to hold them for subsequent or adopted children. 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 favours, gifts, and games all coordinated by the host(s). Invitations are sent out, by the organizers, 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. In some regions, it is common to give party favours, small gifts for the guests. Baby showers, like bridal showers and bachelorette parties, are more open to new ideas, concepts, themes, games, and changes in etiquette. For instance, once it was unacceptable in America for guests to rub the expectant mother’s abdomen.

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. Others believe that the concept of celebrating a coming child is a private family event or does not mandate a party at all.