12/29/2025
As finances feel tighter for many families and time feels more precious than ever, there’s been a gentle shift in how we choose to gather and celebrate.
More parents, not just those having a second or third baby, are opting out of the traditional baby shower or gender reveal. Not because they don’t want to celebrate, but because they want to celebrate differently. More gently. More meaningfully. More practically.
There have always been options.
• The traditional baby shower, with games, food, and gifts to help families prepare.
• The Baby Sprinkle, a lighter version often held for subsequent babies.
• Meet the Baby or Sip and See, celebrating once baby has arrived.
• Any of these can be hosted open house style to take the pressure off timing.
And now I’m seeing some really lovely new versions of the same intention. Community showing up for a growing family. These are a few of my favourites.
✨ Meal Prep Party or Stock the Freezer Party
Everyone brings ingredients or a pre made freezer meal. You prep together, chat, snack, and leave with a full freezer and a full heart. Future you will be very grateful. You can request specific recipes or list dietary needs in the invite.
✨ Grow a Library
Guests bring a children’s book or a gift card to a local bookstore and write a note inside for baby. Especially sweet if it was a favourite from their own kids. Add coffee, tea, and finger foods and you’re set.
✨ Wisdom Circle
Guests come ready to share a birth story, a postpartum tip, or a wish for your family. Write them into a keepsake book for baby. Serve mimosas and mocktails and soak up the collective care.
At the heart of all of this is the same thing.
Being seen, supported, and celebrated without pressure, excess, or expectation.
Because welcoming a baby isn’t about stuff.
It’s about community.
Now I want to know.
💛 What kind of baby celebration did you have, or would you choose if you were doing it again?
💛 What does showing up for new parents look like in your world? Share below.