I’m always asked about the etiquette of having a baby shower for a second, third or fourth child. Parents are worried that having a baby shower after the first child can appear greedy. That you are only throwing the party so you can receive more baby shower presents.
My answer is that holding a baby shower isn’t about the gifts and never should be. It’s the opportunity for you to see family and friends and celebrate the upcoming birth of a baby. Whether it is the first or fifth baby it shouldn’t matter. Having a baby shower is a great opportunity to have a laugh and play games with the closest people around you. To enjoy their company before life gets even harder.
Hosting a baby shower can be expensive so if you are thinking of having a party to get gifts it could backfire. By the time you have organised the games, food, invites, decorations and the venue you would have spent a lot of money.
Holding a baby shower for the second baby is very common. So much so that it has the name “Baby Sprinkle”. So holding a second baby shower, or baby sprinkle is not only acceptable, it’s encouraged.
I’m also asked if you should get a gift for the second or third baby shower. And my answer is always Absolutely! It doesn’t have to be an extravagant gift like a pram or crib or anything expensive. Especially as the parents-to-be will already have these larger gifts. Think of items that the parents will need a lot of. Items that are going to be needed regularly like newborn bibs, nappies, and Sudocrem. To get some ideas read our baby essentials buying guide.
Even for the second baby, you can set up a baby registry to help guests select gifts. Your guests are going to want to give you a practical baby gift and this can help them choose.
So whether it’s your first, second or tenth baby it is a special occasion and can be celebrated with a Baby Sprinkle!
This article was written by Luisa Figueroa. She is the owner, designer and maker of the My Little Love Heart range of baby products. I have been working within the fashion industry for over 15 years and specialising in baby accessories for the last 5. My love of fashion has enabled me to work and study around the world.