to want a baby shower?

[Bentlie]

Feeling a bit silly. I've always disliked the idea of a baby shower. I thought they were tacky and that people threw them simply for the gifts. I went to one today however that was absolutely amazing, we discussed baby names, wrote down advice cards for the mother-to-be, played silly but fun games, and generally had a wonderful time. Gifts were given but they weren't not the focus of the day.

AIBU to completely change my mind about baby showers and ask my friend (who previously offered) to throw me one? Or are they normally just awful and I'm simply disillusioned because this one happened to be 'perfect'?

Life is very short so taking the opportunity to mark something special with friends is not something you should apologise for.

I had one organised for me by friends. I was really against it, but I had a lovely time. Catching up with friends & family, we played silly games and ate cake They gave name suggestions and guessed the weight/date etc. If you want one do it, although bare in mind not everyone agrees!

You don't ask people to throw one for you. Dear god, people have taken what's a perfectly nice custom and completely corrupted it.

Expat - that’s a bit mean.

Her friend offered, she’s declined and now changed her mind. It’s hardly calling up to say ‘I want a baby shower - sort it out!’

OP - as long as they’re low-key and fun (just as you describe) you’re in no way unreasonable.

Just avoid expense afternoon teas where people have to pay as well as bring gifts.

Mumsnet hates them but generally people in real life like them so I wouldn’t bother posting on here unless you’re happy to hear a lot of negativity.

I’ve been to and organised several, and I love them. It’s a celebration when a friend is having a baby. There’s nothing to hate.

@expatinscotland my friend wanted to throw me one (she's actually an events organiser, not that that makes a difference) and I declined as I wasn't sure. I think I've changed my mind so am thinking of asking if she's still happy to throw it for me. A little extreme to compare this to corruption don't you think?

It sounds like you're going to regret not having one now, and life is not for regrets!!

Call up your friend, explain your change of heart and ask her for her help in arranging one with you. She may offer to do it all, never know!

Oh and congratulations on the pregnancy!

Thanks all. Still a bit unsure but would love to have some sort of get together...

Thanks @Kocerhan3

In my 'real life' nobody likes or has them

@dontbesillyhenry I guess you mean in your social circle. I work in a restaurant and see loads come in for baby showers! Sometimes it's just a nice meal and some cards, sometimes it's full blown decorations games and all sorts. Live and let live

I'm not trying to plan a massive event. I just don't see my friends often and most have already had babies. It was fascinating hearing everyone's birth stories, tips, things to buy, things not to buy, words of wisdom etc etc. That was my favourite bit of the day! I would absolutely say no gifts.

Of course YANBU if you want one! It doesn't matter what anyone else would do.