How to plan and celebrate Baby shower

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A baby shower is not a new concept; in fact, it is a custom rooted in tradition. It is known by various names in almost every culture on the planet. Even in India, this ritual is named differently in different regions or cultures. In India, the baby shower is commonly named godh bharai, specifically in north India, while in Maharashtra, it is known as Dohale Jevan. In Tamilnadu, it is called Valai Kappu, while in Bengal, this tradition is known as Shaad. In English it is popularly called Baby shower. The purpose and excitement of this tradition however, are the same in every culture. Any addition to the family is a blessing. The baby shower ceremony is celebrated to depict a warm, welcoming gesture to the to-be-born child.

What is a baby shower?

When the baby is on the way, not only parents, but also all the family members, including paternal and maternal relatives, friends, and other loved ones, get excited and seem eager to welcome the little one. In the baby shower ceremony, they all shower loads of blessings and gifts to the mum-to-be and the yet-to-arrive baby. They celebrate the occasion with great enthusiasm. In India, a baby shower or godh bharai happens after completion of the seventh month of the pregnancy. It may vary as per the auspicious astrological timings and the choice of the family members. Godh bharai simply means 'fill the lap'. The lap of the mum-to-be is filled with fruits and gifts. Elders bless the mom-to-be and the to-be-born child with abundance, love, and good wishes. Traditionally, the baby shower ritual was celebrated with women where no men were allowed. The venue usually used to be the in-laws' house of the mum-to-be. The women used to sing, dance, and have fun with numerous games and fun activities.

Baby Shower Celebrations

Although, whatever the manner it is celebrated, the ultimate aim to celebrate this ceremony is to make the mother-to-be happy and feel special and blessed. The objective is also to make the day a special and memorable one with lots of joy and happiness.

Baby Shower Ideas for planning

Take some baby shower ideas and suggestions from those who have already celebrated the ceremony. They can definitely help you to understand the do's and don'ts. Think of and plan all the games and organize all necessary accessories beforehand to make the gaming session more enjoyable and systematic. Have a glance at the list of the guests to confirm that you have not skipped off some close relatives or friends. After the ceremony, the mum-to-be leaves the in-laws home and shifts to her parents’ place till the baby’s birth and completion of 45 days after birth. This custom is to make the mum-to-be feel relaxed and comfortable with her parents and siblings.

Baby Shower Invitation

Here are some tips for creating a baby shower invitation that is both beautiful and effective.

Choose a theme: Whether it's a classic gender reveal party or a fun and quirky celebration, choosing a theme will help guide the design of your invitation.
Eye-catching design: Use playful colors, graphics, and fonts that match your theme to make your invitation stand out.
Include essential details: Make sure to include all the necessary information, such as date, time, location, and RSVP instructions. Consider including any special requests, like bringing a book for the baby or wearing a specific color.
Personal touches: Adding custom calligraphy or photos of the parents-to-be can make your invitation feel extra special and memorable.

With these tips in mind, you'll be able to create a baby shower invitation that is both beautiful and effective.

Baby Shower decoration

Nowadays, baby showers are a trend. In many countries, there is a trend to celebrate the ceremony more than once. They keep the ceremony theme and celebrate at various venues to facilitate guests scattered at multiple locations. Usually, the mum-to-be and dad-to-be host the ceremony, and baby shower invites are sent to family members, friends, and loved ones. The specific theme and baby shower decoration for the ceremony makes it more enjoyable with a particular dress code, color code, and decoration. The overall décor of the event depicts the welcoming gesture to enhance the excitement of the parents-to-be and the other near and dear ones who are eager to welcome the little one.

Rites and rituals to be performed in baby shower

The rites and rituals may vary from culture to culture, but few things are very common in all cultures. The near and dear ones gather together usually at the in-laws' house of the to-be mother or any other predetermined venue. The mum-to-be wears traditional dress, especially a saree with heavy jewelry. The ceremony begins with a pooja followed by rituals that may include adorning the mum-to-be with jewelry, flowers and bangles.

Baby Shower Games

After the rituals, the enjoyment begins with lots of fun, singing, dancing, jokes, healthy teasing, and games. Some amusing baby shower games may include guessing the gender of the baby, placing bets on the gender, or making a list of baby names. One of the commonly played games is attaching a ring or a bangle with a thread and dangling it over the palm of the mother-to-be. The way the bangle or ring spins determines that the baby is a girl or a boy. It is merely a game and not a specific way to specify gender as laws in our nation prohibit it.

Baby Shower Cake and Feast

The gaming session is followed by lunch or dinner, which is usually a lavish and rich meal including starters, main course and desserts. The new trend is the baby shower cake which is interestingly decorated and themed according to the plans of the organisers. Taste all the food items before serving them to the guests.

Baby Shower Photos

The mother-to-be must rest before the function so that she will not feel fatigued during the process. The dress chosen for the event by the to-be mother must be comfortable. It must not be burdensome and made up of uncomfortable material. If possible, hire a beautician for the make-up of mum-to-be. It will spare her the hassle of self-make-up. It is the day of the mom-to-be and she has to look resplendent. Photos of the party are to make the occasion memorable and a special baby shower photoshoot of the mom and dad to-be.

Baby Shower Gifts

The elders of the family initiate showering of their blessings in the form of baby shower gifts, fruits, dry fruits, sweets, and coconut that they fill into her lap. One of the reliable friends or relatives is asked to collect all the baby shower gifts, cash, and fruits that the mom-to-be will receive.

Here are some suggestions for baby shower gifts if you have been invited to a ceremony.

Baby shower gifts for babies

Footie pyjamas. A printed footie pyjama with a princess, cartoon or animal theme can be a thoughtful gift.
Costumes. Cute little costumes are a hit as baby shower gifts. The costumes could include those of super heroes such as Spiderman and Superman,
Soft Toys. A standard gift on such occasions.
Pillows. Themed printed pillows add color and fun to baby cradles.
Cloth Diapers. A supply of diapers for the little one is necessary and moms would probably forget these essentials during the last minute. Langots or cloth diapers made of organic material are better for a new born.
Baby Towels. Babies are always messy and need regular clean-ups. A handy pack of towels will be appreciated.

Baby Shower Gifts for Moms

Parenting books. New Moms may get worried at the smallest indication of the out of normal behavior of babies. Guides and self help books will definitely help them to stay calm.
Newborn baby carrier. This will be a much appreciated gift when the mom has to travel.
Spa coupon with babysitter facility. A little me time for mom will be much appreciated where can feel relaxed.