Hellobee Boards

My mom's side of the family has an annual holiday party in mid-December and my mom rolled a small "sprinkle" into it last year when I was pregnant with #2 (I really didn't want this, but she wanted to do something for me so I just let her run with it).

My aunt was hosting so she just sent an additional email to the one that usually gets sent about the party and said that there would be a small celebration for my baby. Some of the snacks were baby themed instead of holiday themed (light blue m&ms, blue cake pops, etc) and she had a frame set up with some baby pics of DH and I. I opened gifts but mostly just my mom and a couple aunts paid attention, everyone else mingled like normal. Honestly, the whole thing felt a little weird to me but then it was over and the party carried on.

Maybe instead of a "shower" it could be more like a beer and diapers themed friendsgiving? Like bring a dish and a pack of diapers for the mom to be?

I would also suggest more of a "baby and beers" or "baby is brewing" theme. I had a kind-of sprinkle for my 2nd where friends showed up to an already-planned event with a pack of diapers for baby. We didn't do anything else baby-related though.

Maybe some games that can be played throughout the night vs. everyone-play-right-now. These printables could be cute, https://www.etsy.com/listing/589568133/7-baby-shower-games-pack-in-gold?ref=pla_similar_listing_top-2 and then just have prizes at the end of the night?

@erinbaderin: that’s my question too... if the friend who suggested having the shower is also the expectant mom this does sound like she’s asking for a gift(s).

Honestly, all I would do is to plan to serve an extra special dessert that is clearly about mom and baby. I’m assuming all the friends know she’s having a baby. Those that plan to bring a gift will.

@Corduroy: I have the same question as pp, it sounds like the expectant is asking for the shower for herself? To me that would make it a bit awkward

Hmm, I also don’t think you have to overthink it. As you say at this point, the “should I do it” ship has sailed and it seems your friend is a little down and anxious. I’d simply email either the entire group (or just the females if they’re the planner/helper types) and say it’d be nice to acknowledge the pregnancy and to have a mini shower at the Friendsgiving. I don’t think that’s weird at all, but would definitely make it clear that it’s casual, super low key and not the main focal point of the getogether. So like others have mentioned, pitch in for a group gift, collect books for the baby or do one very simple activity (write messages on diapers, well wishes for baby that can be turned into a book, etc.). Think the key is to make it low key and casual. The mom and pregnancy will be acknowledged and I’m sure people will bring gifts or diapers on their own accord and that’s probably all your friend really needs (and being surrounded by friends). I wouldn’t even do decor or favors. Maybe one centerpiece like a diaper cake or some fun baby themed nibbles. I think it’s a really nice gesture, kudos to you for heading it up!

@Corduroy: I think the casual, email, little turkey thing is great. I also think it's really nice of you to do this. I never had showers or anything for lo2 and lo3 and although I'm similar and not a shower person, I had a rough time with #2 especially and #3 was just very uncomfortable with nausea and carrying very low and it just would have been nice to have someone inject some good feelings there, so I think this is just a really nice way to lift her spirits. I hope she has an uneventful last bit of her pregnancy and birth.