Let's plan and prepare a baby shower! Thoughtful gifts
Baby showers are parties to celebrate becoming a mom
A baby shower is a party that originated in the United States to celebrate an expectant mother. Unlike Japanese traditions such as Omiyamairi (shrine visit for newborns) or Okuizome (first meal ceremony), there are no fixed rules. Instead, baby showers are planned as an opportunity to show care for the mom-to-be and for everyone gathered to share an enjoyable time.
When are baby showers held?
In the United States, baby showers are meant to ease the anxieties of pregnant women and provide emotional support. They are typically held around the 7th to 8th month of pregnancy, during the stable second trimester. This period is considered ideal because the baby's condition in the womb is more evident, and the expectant mother's health is generally stable.
Who plans it?
Baby showers are planned by those close to the expectant mother. Sisters or best friends often take charge, organizing a party that aligns with the mom-to-be's wishes. Surprise parties are also popular for expectant mothers who enjoy surprises.
Attendees and Number of Guests
Typically, baby showers have 5 to 20 attendees. Historically, these events were for women only, but it's becoming more common for men to participate. They are held at the expectant mother's home or a restaurant. In the United States, it's a family event where not just friends, but also mothers who are soon to become "grandmothers" and are most excited about the baby's arrival, participate.
Party Content
Baby showers feature a variety of fun games. For example, there are many games filled with laughter and smiles, such as bottle chugging races and diaper changing competitions. Exchanging gifts and dedicating time for congratulatory messages are also important parts of the celebration.
For example, games that use baby items are often planned:
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Bottle chugging race: Participants fill baby bottles with a drink and race to finish it. Laughter often erupts at the sight of them using large baby bottles.
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Diaper chocolate guessing game: A small amount of famous chocolate brands are melted in a microwave and placed in diapers. Participants then guess the brand of chocolate in the diaper. This game is enjoyed by watching the bewildered expressions of participants as they look at the chocolate in the diaper.
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Blindfolded diaper changing race: Participants are blindfolded and compete to put a diaper on a stuffed animal. It's a heartwarming game where experienced mothers are applauded for their swiftness.
These games help to liven up the party atmosphere.
Choosing Gifts
When choosing gifts, of course, select items that the expectant mother will appreciate, but also choose things that will bring smiles to everyone's faces when opened at the party. Baby clothes, toys, and books or picture books that are helpful for childcare are also popular. Items that are useful in any quantity, or products whose benefits are only understood after becoming a mother, are also appreciated.
・Baby clothes (Since new parents often acquire essential baby items themselves, cute patterns or baby wear suitable for seasons three months after birth are appreciated. Post-birth, tastes often change, so simple designs are recommended.)
・Toys (Teethers and bath toys; since many mothers prefer natural products, high-quality materials are recommended.)
・Books (Helpful parenting books and picture books are also appreciated.)
・Towels and blankets (These are always useful gifts, no matter how many you have.)
It's best to choose gifts that make the expectant mother feel the reality of becoming a mom, or items she'll feel were "so good to have!" to create lasting happy memories of the party. Diaper cakes are also a popular choice.
Decorations and Attire for the Day
Decorations typically feature pastel-colored balloons and colorful flowers. Attendees often enjoy wearing pink or floral attire.
While there are no strict rules, fun dress codes are sometimes specified. If someone comes in different attire, Americans generally don't mind much, so hosts feel free to set a dress code.
If the expectant mother likes Disney, the dress code might be "please wear something Disney."
If the dress code is "please wear pink," some older attendees might wear a single pink accessory, while others might wear a pink dress. To plan an enjoyable event, hosts value individual preferences and fun.
A baby shower is a wonderful event to share the joy of becoming a mom. Let's celebrate the arrival of a new life while having a great time.
