Baby showers are a traditional celebration where close family and friends buy gifts for the expectant parents. But many people have been arguing that those events are meant only for the first child. As for seconds and thirds, a congratulations call would suffice. But does this make sense? Or do you have a baby shower for your second baby?
Short Answer
Yes, you can have a baby shower for your second baby, but under certain conditions. For starters, you can do it if the baby comes soon after the first child or in the case that the second baby is of another gender.
But it doesn’t stop here; there are many etiquettes and traditions you should follow on your second baby’s shower. So read on to know all about them.
Can You Throw a Baby Shower for Your Second Child?
After learning the conditions under which you can throw a second baby shower, it’s time to get into more detail regarding throwing the event properly. So, without further ado, let’s jump in!
Is It Rude to Have a Second Baby Shower?
While not particularly rude, it might show a bit of greed. For example, it might not be the best decision if you had your second baby years after your first one. This is because your first child will have stopped using the stroller, the baby monitor, and any other gifts that people bring in a baby shower.
Therefore, people might perceive it as greedy if you’re all set up for your second baby but still want a baby shower. But remember, this isn’t a rule. Some societies accept throwing multiple baby showers. If Blake Lively threw one, who says you can’t?
On the other hand, if you’re having a baby of another gender or got pregnant right after your first birth, then throwing a second baby shower is fine. This is because you’ll need new baby gifts to use.
What Is a Second Baby Shower Called?
A second baby shower is often called a baby sprinkle. This is because it’s usually less significant than the first one. Also, rather than the typical gifts of strollers and carrycots, attendees come bearing diapers, wipes, and some clothes for the new baby.
Second Baby Shower Etiquette
Like first baby showers, parents should never throw the party and send out the invitations themselves. Instead, a close friend or relative should do it. This is to avoid people perceiving the invitations as parents asking for gifts.
In addition, second baby showers should be smaller than the first ones. And if the mother still has her first baby’s gifts, then the invitations should state politely that the parents aren’t waiting for presents.
As for the number of attendees, it should be limited to close friends and relatives. You don’t have to invite your work colleagues and distant cousins.
Ideas for a Second Baby Shower
If you think repeated baby showers are tacky, then you can celebrate your friend or relative’s pregnancy in many other ways. Here are three creative alternatives to the usual baby shower.
Spa Day
Since women go through a lot during pregnancies, it’d be an excellent idea to take the mother out for a spa day along with her close friends. It’ll be a change from the stereotypical baby shower idea, and the mother will appreciate it.
Couples Night Out
It’s tough to leave a newborn baby with a babysitter during the first couple of months; that’s why the parents rarely go out during this period. However, you can go on a couples’ night out with your expectant friends before the birthdate to compensate for this.
Mocktail Party
You can throw a mocktail party for your pregnant friend and hire a bartender to whip up delicious drinks. Also, you can prepare some charcuterie boards and cold snacks, and you’re good to go.
Second Baby Shower Invitation Wording
You can write an invitation like the one for your first baby shower. However, add a line at the end that says “no gifts, please.” This way, you’ll cherish people’s presence more and spare them the hassle of buying gifts.
Second Baby Shower Gift Ideas
Since the significant, expensive gifts belong to the first baby shower, here are some creative gifts that you can buy.
Swaddles
Swaddles help babies feel like they’re in a womb; therefore, they sleep faster and become calmer. Since mothers become much busier after having a second baby, they won’t have much time to put their baby to sleep. So to help your pregnant friend save time, you can get her a cute swaddle.
Teething Toys
Parents are unlikely to use the same teething toys for both children. So to spare them the headache of buying a new one, you can get them a teething toy for their newborn baby.
Pacifiers
Parents can never have enough pacifiers for their babies. So if you’ve racked your brain for gift ideas but came up with nothing, you can buy a set of new pacifiers for the second baby.
Matching Outfits
Do you know anything cuter than two little siblings wearing matching onesies or pajamas? Neither do we! That’s why we recommend buying matching outfits for your second baby shower. The mother will appreciate the extra clothing, so your gift will be both creative and practical.
Backpack Diaper Bag
Since mothers with two children will always have their hands full, an over-the-shoulder diaper bag won’t work anymore. To make life easier for your pregnant friend, you can get her a backpack diaper bag so that she’ll be able to take care of her kids while out.
Summary and Recap
Second baby showers are a controversial topic. To summarize the etiquettes, you should only throw one if you had your second baby right after your first or if your second baby is of another gender. Instead of a baby shower, you can arrange a spa day with your close friends or throw a mocktail party.