The key purpose for hosting a baby shower is to regale the mother-to-be with gifts for the newborn or expected baby. These gifts include baby diapers, clothes, toys, and so forth. Baby showers were historically uncommon, and if they were held, only the expecting mother and her female relatives and friends would attend. However, baby showers have become common nowadays, and men are starting to accept baby shower invitations as well.



Baby showers were commonly celebrated for the family's first child. But, as times change, they can be given for any and all successive babies. These showers were usually held for expecting mothers, but more and more parents started to celebrate baby showers even for newborn babies. It is interesting to note that in some tribal cultures it is considered taboo to buy the unborn child any gifts. Since miscarriages are common occurrences in these cultures, it is thought too traumatic for the mother and relatives to have baby items after the fact.

Baby showers are usually hosted by the expectant mother's friend or a family friend. It is considered rude for either the mother herself or the mother-in-law to host the shower. Baby shower gifts can range from the typical (diapers and baby bottles) to the thoughtful (personalized toys and heirlooms).

A baby shower is celebrated with food and beverages. The meal is often served prior to the mother opening her gifts in front of the guests. Contemporary showers feature baby-related games such as guessing games that have guests guess the due date, the baby's gender, and the mother's girth. Unusual games like guessing the flavor of baby food and diaper-throws, with the diapers filled with candies and chocolates, are also played.

Apart from receiving gifts, baby showers provide the mother with access to a host of generational advice. This allows the mother-to-be to solicit parenting tips and advice and also secure such vital services as babysitters and pediatricians. It is essential the expectant parents send the baby shower invitations at least a month before the shower date. They should give enough time for their guests to confirm their attendance to the party. Most invitations also provide a baby registry at an assigned store for gift ideas.