Showers are no longer just for the mother-to-be. As fathers become more and
more involved in the events surrounding pregnancies and childbirth, showers are
no exceptions. As pregnancy becomes more of a “couple” thing instead of a
“mother” thing, so are showers.
It is not unusual or inappropriate to have a “couples” shower – although it
tends to be more like a family gathering focused around a great meal than fun
(and sometimes corny) games. When planning the food, try to imagine a group of
men eating the dainty appetizers and frilly desserts. Instead, bring on the food
and make sure you plan a hearty meal so that everyone’s satisfied and happy to
sit back and relax.
If you are going to host a co-ed shower, make sure there will be plenty of
guys there. If just a few guys show up, the expectant father (and few male
guests) may feel uncomfortable.
Also, keep everything guy-friendly. A pink and blue lace invitation will not
be very persuasive in convincing the guys to attend. Don’t be afraid to
incorporate a theme, just make sure it’s one that’s festive such as a tropical
theme for a cookout.
Above all, remember that a co-ed shower is more of a party than a shower.
Also, any games should be ones that the guys are comfortable with as well –
nothing could make a guy more nervous than having to choose a length of yarn
that fits around a pregnant woman’s belly!
If it’s a group of friends, you may not need any games for entertainment –
sometimes a get together and time to visit is entertainment enough. Other things
to keep in mind are to include the couple’s names on the invitation so that it’s
clear that it’s a co-ed shower. If you are going to have games, make sure the
prizes and favors are gender neutral (or buy some for each).
Above all, leave
the decision for a co-ed baby shower up to the father-to-be. He may feel as
though he’s barging in on something that isn’t meant for him and his buddies. If
this is the case, let it go and plan a great party for the mother-to- be and
rest assured that the father-to-be will be enjoying one of his last occasions to
do “guy-stuff” before the baby’s birth.