Bec Judd’s (non) baby shower could be the answer we’ve all been waiting for when it comes to having multiple showers. Simple, elegant and just enough.
First, let’s look at the reasons to hold a baby shower. Traditionally they’re held so expectant parents can stock up on all of the practical items that a baby needs and some of the more expensive stuff. But there are other reasons to gather around that bump.
Here’s the top six reasons you SHOULD have a baby shower for each pregnancy.
1. Record, record, record!
Every child is special and while that doesn’t mean that their actual birth isn’t special enough to be highly documented, once you’ve had your third baby, you’ll realise that the photos peter off, the scrapbooking pages slowly die and baby book (if it’s even bought) isn’t filled out past the birth weight. It’s the same for your pregnant belly. You’re so enthralled at your body changing the first time around and have each change carefully dated in your files, folders or even albums (if you’re anything like me,) that you’ll forget to take pictures of it with each future pregnancy. This is a great opportunity to get the pictures you want with those you love most.
2. Family
Getting together after multiple babies is tough for a lot of families. Some are spread so far and wide that they need a really good reason to come together. What better reason could there be? Sit, eat and enjoy the company of your loved ones in peace … you know, before your needing match sticks for your eyes.
3. Party game fun!
If you’ve never been to a baby shower, you won’t know the kind of games you can play. For the traditionalists, there’s guessing games. But, if you’re feeling adventurous these action games will have you laughing yourself silly. If you’re a little quirky –weird baby shower games will keep everyone entertained.
4. Dad’s can play too
If there’s one thing dads know how to do - even before becoming a dad, it’s play! Making a baby shower all about mum is nice but did you know dads like to be a part of it all? Change the theme just slightly and have a barbecue lunch. It’ll will give the boys somewhere to hang out while the lady talk happens, but then come together to have a meal and play a game. Who doesn’t like to see the blokes changing a nappy?
5. Food, glorious food!
Before you’re zapped back to the reality of post-partum exercises and watching your intake, nibble your way through the delicious treats on the baby shower food menu, what can go wrong? And, don’t forget the cake!
6. Victory party
You know, having a baby shower for the third time made me appreciate that not every pregnancy gets to this point. After multiple mishaps, you realise that each woman who’s made it through morning sickness, each pregnancy that’s made it through the initial miscarriage fears and each bump that’s grown to a bulging belly, deserves to be celebrated at every chance. Likewise for the dads, who have held your hair back, comforted the fears and fed that belly from Maccas at 3am!
Don’t forget your etiquette
If you’re having a baby shower for your subsequent children, there are a few things you should remember.
It’s not always about the gifts
Make a point to tell your potential guests that you’re not looking for presents! If they feel the urge to purchase a gift, please buy something as a keepsake to shower the baby with, rather than nappy cakes and onesies.
Keep it simple
Fun and fancy-free should be the theme. You can nest and decorate until your bump is content but a 3 course sit down meal or high tea with Nan’s tea set isn’t necessary.
Come one, come all!
A great way to keep things easy going is to have everyone there. After all, a new baby is a whole family affair.
So, barbecue or bake get that family together to shower this belly in love.
