Baby showers....

[LokiBear]

I know they are contentious but this isn't intended to start a bun fight. However, I was wondering if there were any American mummies who might be able to answer a question. Are baby showers traditionally thrown for every baby a woman has or just the first baby?

FTR, I have no opinions on people having a baby shower. Didn't have one myself but have been to a few and they have always been nice enough events.

Just the first baby, traditionally.

(Not American but had this conversation recently with American friends!)

Having more than 1 is taking the piss if you expect presents again. It's ok to have a get together though.

Not American, but familiar (IYSWIM)

It's for the first baby - shower presents are (small) things that a woman does not need before having a baby (either for the baby, or for the newly delivered mother).

Just like a bridal shower is first marriage only.

Some people depart from that, but it's a bit grabby/tacky to go for seconds.

I thought it was just for the first baby as it was also a celebration for the mum on entering motherhood. Which I think is a lovely idea, its just got too commercial and out of hand in some cases.

We (English) sometimes have a "baby sprinkle" for second babies. Usually just a get together with cake and cocktails. If we know they are having a child of a different sex than before they may get a few items of clothing etc. No real "presents" on a large scale though.

I am American.

It's for the first baby. Gifts are to help get everything you need for a new baby, presents for the mom aren't usually given. And this is the only time you give presents. It's not expected to bring a gift again once baby is born

Thanks all. I thought so. I'm not against the idea at all, I think it is lovely and a nice tradition. However, this is the 4th one in 5 years for this particular person. I've been to all the other so was wondering if it would be poor form of me to decline this one. The mum to be is American. Declining due to a clash of dates rather than because it's a baby shower. No gifts have been requested, but it's an expensive event to attend due to the venue.