Men at a baby shower? Why not!

The co-ed baby shower is becoming a more common event, perfectly in keeping with changing times and parenting roles. The increasing number of men who now stay home to look after baby while Mum returns to work is a stark example of how times have changed; and the rituals surrounding an impending birth have started to change with them. So, if you believe a ‘His ‘n Hers’ baby shower best suits your circumstances, and best reflects your attitude to pregnancy, go right ahead and do it. By following a few tips your baby shower with a difference will be enjoyed by Jack as well as Jill!

Round Up Other Men

Being the only man at a baby shower will probably dent his masculine pride and make him feel just a tad awkward, so enlist the help of your friends and tell them to bring their partners as well. The menfolk may not wish to participate in all the activities but as long as there are other guys there to talk sport etc with, all should be well. Speaking of which, it’s best not to schedule your shower to coincide with a major sporting event unless, of course, you’re happy to have the TV on in the background!

Also, make sure your invites are gender non-specific – go easy on the florals, flounces, and love hearts – and inclusive of him and her.

Unisex Entertainment….

Parlor games used to be a big part of the ladies only baby shower but they might not be to the taste of all your guests at a co-ed baby shower. Games with broader appeal might include ‘build a baby’ competitions (making a baby out of Play Doh, common craft items etc) diaper changing competitions (on a doll, of course), a baby bottle drinking competition to see who can drink a bottle of juice (or beer to make it particularly man-tastic!) in the fastest time, or an assembly competition to determine who can put together a baby’s toy in world record time!
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Baby showers don’t need to be all about expensive presents, awkward small talk and games that usually involve putting nappies on unsuspecting dolls. If you’re planning a baby shower then this is a fabulous opportunity to celebrate the upcoming birth of your baby with friends and family. We’ve come up with some great ideas on how to break away from tradition but still create a wonderful celebration to remember.

A little help from your friends

If you are getting tired and feeling the effects of your pregnancy, then get a close friend or family member to organize your baby shower for you. You can discuss all the details with them beforehand, but having someone else take care of the invitations, food, games and decorations will mean that you can sit back, relax and take a well-earned break!

Baby shower gifts

Your guests will all want to bring a gift to your baby shower, so one idea is to come up with a gift list so that you don’t end up with five nappy cakes! Don’t be afraid to ask for practical gifts and baby essentials as well as keepsakes or special outfits – these baby shower gifts will help give you peace of mind that you’re getting everything ready in time for baby’s arrival.

Of course, the gifts don’t always have to be for baby either! Moms also need plenty of TLC so you could always come up with a few ideas like massages or a basket of pamper goodies to see you through the last few weeks of your pregnancy.

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