Baby shower for no. 2

[Moanyoldcow]

I know lots of people on here hate baby showers full stop, but I don't - I think they're nice so long as they're low-key and I love buying baby stuff.

That said, it feels a bit funny to have one for a second baby. I had one for my first as my best friend is American and was desperate to organise it for me. It was lovely - I provided all the food and drink, it was at my house and we just all sat around, chatted a bit and had a nice afternoon. I got lots of lovely things for my baby and I was very grateful.

My aunt wants me to have one for this baby. She's like my mum but couldn't come to my last one for a number of reasons.

I don't think I should - it feels a bit funny for my second child.

Do you think baby showers are just for first babies, if at all?

Personally I think they're an American invention & I'm not having one.

BUT ... if you enjoyed it and it was a special memory, who cares? It sounds as though your aunt wants to do this so I would go for it and enjoy it.

You're already following a new tradition by having had one, so I wouldn't get bulked down with the rules.

If it's because you feel awkward about the gifts side of things, why not ask everyone to bring a piece of food? And just have it as a celebratory get together before baby arrives.

It's a rite of passage into motherhood, showering with gifts pf things you simply did not need before a baby . So yes, first baby only (unless huge age gap and the household needs re-equipping, or some other truly exceptional circumastances).

Could you compromise, and have a lovely party, just call it something other than a shower?

Thank you for your replies. I think I'll suggest we 'rebrand' it as more of a gathering without presents - that would be nice.

How about just close family, suggest no gifts?

I don't have much family, Loz - it would be quite sparse!!

But I will say no gifts I think. And get a nice cake!

They're not my cup of tea either. I have two ppl who want to do one for me but I have said no. Not to be horrible I just feel people feel obliged to bring a gift. Where as I'm more than happy with a card After the birth however if they want to buy a gift then then that's out of choice not obligation.

However I have been to many showers and I enjoy them.. For others

How about an afternoon tea type one. So more low key. Less of the games etc.?