North Bay Woman

S P R I N G | S U M M E R 2 0 2 2 NORTH BAY WOMAN 19 er that is shared with guests via the invitation. While these have usually been reserved for women, showers can be co-ed and are often kid-friendly. Baby showers are gener- ally hosted by a family member or best friend. Easy meal tip: Hire a food truck. Baby Sprinkle This get together is simpler than a shower, and often reserved for honoring the birth of a second child. A pared down guest list of the inner circle, easy food (maybe just dessert) and a casual atmosphere make up a baby sprinkle. Gifts are part of the day and are typically necessities that the parents may not have from the first child like diapers, wipes, bath items and some new clothes. A close friend may often host a sprinkle along with both parents and women and men attending. Pro food tip: you can get away with having just one or two types of food, and a theme is always welcome; try a doughnut stack or wall, individual charcuterie cones, or fruit skewers. Belly Painting This is a calming as well as a fun activi- ty for moms. Oftentimes this is done for a party or a pho- to shoot and creates lots of memories. The process can take some time, so make sure the mom is comfortable. Soft music, a relaxing recliner, low lighting or eye mask can enhance the experience. Make sure that mom can get up and walk if needed during the process and that there is a restroom nearby. Blessingway A Native American tradition that focuses on the mother's journey as she moves through her preg- nancy. Typically just women attend this party-like cere- mony that is very spiritual in nature. Gifts still have a place here, but are not a main focus. Instead, more meaningful activities like candle lighting while setting an intention for each mother and child, creating a birth necklace, making a flower crown for the mother, washing the mother's feet and constructing a belly cast are part of this custom. Push Party/Push Present A push party is like a baby shower, however it is usually reserved for a second or third child. They are attended by men and women, and gifts may be centered around the mother. Push Presents have become trendy where the father bestows a special gift, often jewelry, on the mother. Sex Reveal This is a party held with friends and family of the parents-to-be during pregnancy to reveal the baby's sex. The parents may know ahead of time, or they may have a secret-keeper that sets it up. The reveal can happen in "surprising" ways like cutting into a cake to find it pink or blue, or opening a package to find the appro- priately colored confetti. Guests may bring token gifts for the parents-to-be, but it is not necessary. This gathering happens earlier in the pregnancy preceding showers and sprinkles. Pro tip: Since gender identity may differ for many, this is renamed by many as a sex reveal. Sip and See Meet and greet the little one is the mission of a sip and see, while the attendees often enjoy a glass of champagne and some nibbles. Usually held at home, this can be a quaint soiree or a big blowout depending on the parents' style. This provides family and friends the opportunity to welcome the new life and can be held anytime after the child is born up to their first birthday. Pro party tip: An open house suits a sip and see well, so everyone can enjoy spending time with the baby and parents. n Left to right: 38 North Design Co. coordinates a lemonade themed baby shower; Celebrations of Marin balloons and lights set up a perfect photo opportunity. – Photos courtesy of 38 North Design Co., Celebrations of Marin

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