Baby showers: for years in Ireland it was an event we only got a glimpse of via American movies.
However, in recent times, the celebration has very much become an Irish tradition too – so much so that it’s increasingly a given for mamas-to-be.
And while the options are endless – casual get-togethers at home; posh afternoon tea, or a sit-down lunch – there are some etiquette considerations that Ireland-based folk might not yet be familiar with.
Pay attention, now…
1) Everyone is welcome
There isn’t set list of who can and can’t attend: men and women; mums and dads; young and old. If you’re the host or you’re organising the occasion, feel free to invite whomever you think would like to join in on the celebrations.
2) Every baby counts!
Baby showers are most associated with first babies; traditionally it was a chance for mums and dads to be gifted with newborn essentials. But if you’re pregnant with your second or third (or beyond!) baby, you’re still very much entitled to throw a shower – sometimes called a ‘sprinkle’ if it’s a smaller event for a subsequent child.
3) Check if it’s child-friendly
Especially if the mama-to-be herself has an older child/children, it might very well be that further small ones are welcome as well as the adults. However, unless that is explicitly stated on the invite, guests shouldn’t just show up unannounced with their entire family in tow – so make sure to check well in advance with the hosts.
4) Be careful
Don’t comment on the pregnant woman’s size, shape, or body-type – this should be a stress-free celebration for her. Instead, tell her she looks ‘beautiful’. Same goes for details on the birth (eg whether she’s going to get pain-relief) – don’t pry.
5) Be present
Get involved in any activities or games that have been arranged… even if they’re not your cup of tea. And make the effort to go along in the first place if your presence is expected. If something unexpected comes up, still drop-in for 30 minutes. Or at the very least – call the pregnant women personally to apologise.
6) Gifts
Baby showers in the US are all about gifts – in Ireland, however, it’s more of a general celebration. Sense-check with the host or your fellow invitees what people plan on bringing. Chipping in together to purchase a bigger item such as a buggy or car-seat will keep costs down for the guests if a large group is attending.
7) Booze?
This is a tricky one – and something that should be discussed beforehand with the pregnant woman herself. Plenty of mums don’t mind prosecco or cocktails being served at their baby showers… but remember this isn’t a hen party! So sip of a couple and toast the happy occasion rather than get sloshed.
8) Thank yous
If you’ve been treated to a great day out and have been wined and dined as a guest, make sure to send thanks. Equally, mums and dads should write their thank you letters immediately – once the baby comes you might not get around to it, so sit down that evening or the following day, go through any gifts, and post off your cards quickly.
