Baby Shower Cards
In the United States, a baby shower is a well known tradition and a popular way to celebrate the future birth of a child. Parents receive gifts for their newborn or expected child. The party is intended to help parents get items that they need for their baby, such as baby clothes.
The term "shower" is often assumed to mean that the guests "shower" the expectant mother with gifts; this is a false etymology. The tradition started by a German immigrant, Franz Schauer, in the 18th century.
Traditionally, a baby shower is held only for the mother-to-be and only women attend. However, recently men are also starting to participate in a couple's baby shower.
Many people choose to have baby showers for both parents, and some people have a men-only shower. In Jewish tradition, a celebration and gift reception is held only after the birth of a child.
Traditionally, baby showers were given only for the family's first child, but over time, it has become more common to hold them for subsequent or adopted children. Even when a shower is held for only the first child, it is not uncommon for a parent to have more than one baby shower, such as one with friends and another with co-workers.
While there are no established guidelines for what constitutes a baby shower, there are some traditional activities that are common at baby showers. Traditionally, the shower is given for the expected parent(s) by someone else as opposed to the parent(s) hosting it. Usually, the mother's maid of honour, or bridesmaids at her wedding, hosts this final event into motherhood for their bride. There are favours, gifts, and games all coordinated by the host(s). Invitations are sent out, by the organizers, on behalf of the Mother/Parents, just like at a traditional bridal shower. Because the party centres on gift-giving, the baby shower is generally arranged by a close friend. There is no set rule for when or where showers are to be held and the party can thus be held at a variety of places and at various times. It is common for the host to provide baby-themed games during the shower. In some regions, it is common to give party favours, small gifts for the guests.
There is great variance in practices and themes of baby showers. Some people prefer to hold showers after the birth of the baby. Some believe that giving gifts before the baby is born can bring bad luck. Others believe that the concept of celebrating a coming child is a private family event or does not mandate a party at all.
