Baby showers are relatively new to the UK. However, the tradition has been popular in the United States for some time. The baby shower is essentially a party where guests give gifts to an expectant mother. The presents are items that the parents will need when the baby arrives, such as clothes. Some people only hold the shower once the baby is born, believing that it is bad luck to hold a baby shower before that.
Originally baby showers were intended only for the first born child and were attended only by women, but both of these traditions are being overturned. It is generally considered appropriate to hold a baby shower for any pregnancy, although it is still relatively uncommon to have male guests attend. It is more common at showers that are largely for family members. Some people will hold showers for both parents.
A baby shower is usually organised by someone other than the mother-to-be. As well as gift-giving, there are often games and activities, such as baby shower bingo, guess the birth date or guess the baby food flavour.
In the last ten years, baby showers have become increasingly popular in this country and that trend looks set to continue.