Last Updated on December 9, 2022 by Project Party

You might think you know everything there is to know about baby showers. But chances are, there are still a few things about this special day that you don’t know. Australians have their own unique traditions for wishing their soon-to-be parents well.

Here are 10 little-known facts about baby showers in Australia.

1. Baby showers in Australia tend to be smaller and more intimate affairs than their American counterparts.

If you’re planning a baby shower, you might want to consider downsizing your guest list. That’s because, in Australia, baby showers tend to be more intimate affairs than their American counterparts. While an American baby shower might include a large group of close friends and family members, an Australian baby shower is typically a smaller, more intimate gathering. This trend lends itself to many more meaningful and memorable experiences.

2. Aussies love a good theme, and baby showers are no exception.

When it comes to baby showers, Aussies know how to have a good time. No matter what the theme, there’s always plenty of food, games and presents. And of course, there’s always plenty of advice for expectant parents! Whether it’s your first baby or your fifth, a shower is a great opportunity to share some wisdom with the new parents-to-be. After all, they’re going to need all the help they can get! Popular themes for baby showers include woodland creatures, Alice in Wonderland and even dinosaurs. So whatever you do, make sure you have plenty of fun – it’s a special time for everyone involved.

3. It’s not uncommon for baby showers in Australia to be co-ed affairs.

In fact, many fathers-to-be enjoy attending these events and getting involved in the celebrations. It’s a great way for the soon-to-be parents to share their joy with friends and family. Plus, it gives them an opportunity to thank everyone for all the love and support they’ve been given.

4. Gifts are not always necessary at Australian baby showers.

If you’re attending an Australian baby shower, don’t feel like you have to bring a gift. However, if you do want to bring something, it’s usually best to stick to small items like nappies, clothes or toys. Big-ticket items like prams or cots tend to be frowned upon, as they can make other guests feel uncomfortable. So, unless you’re close friends with the parents-to-be, it’s probably best to stick to smaller gifts.

5. Most baby showers Down Under are held during the day, usually around lunchtime or afternoon tea.

This allows guests to enjoy a meal together without having to worry about childcare or getting home too late at night. It’s also a great way to keep the guest list short, which is important for smaller, more intimate gatherings.

6. Food and drink choices at Australian baby showers tend to be fairly simple and straightforward.

Finger food is often served, along with wine or champagne for the adults and cordial or soft drinks for the kids (and non-drinkers) in attendance. Afternoon tea is also popular, with homemade cakes, scones and sandwiches making up the bulk of the menu.

7. While most baby showers are held during pregnancy, some couples choose to wait until after their child is born before having their shower.

A sip and see is a party where friends and family can come to meet the newest member of the family and, as the name suggests, enjoy some light refreshments. It’s usually held within a few weeks of the baby’s birth so that everyone can meet the little one before they start to grow up too fast. A sip and see is a great opportunity to catch up with loved ones, introduce them to your new bundle of joy, and maybe even get some advice on parenthood. So if you’re looking for an event that’s both fun and informative, a sip and see is perfect for you.

8. And, subsequent children can have a similar day too.

Known as a ‘baby sprinkle’ or ‘sibling shower’, this type of event is less focused on gifts and more on celebrating the new arrival. Guests are encouraged to bring something small (or even nothing at all), allowing parents to focus on spending quality time with their extended family and friends, who will be sure to have plenty of stories to share about what it’s like raising a family. So if you’re expecting a second (or third, or fourth) baby and want to celebrate in style, why not throw a baby sprinkle? It’s sure to be a day to remember!

9. While games are not essential for a successful baby shower, they are often enjoyed by guests.

Baby shower games may not be essential, but they are often enjoyed by guests. Popular games include ‘guess the size of the belly’, ‘don’t say baby’ and ‘nappy changing races’. While some games are designed to break the ice, others are intended to be more light-hearted and fun. However, all games should be entertaining for both the guests and the expectant parents. If you’re planning a baby shower, be sure to choose games that everyone will enjoy. Otherwise, you may find yourself in a situation where the only thing guests are playing is ‘Guess Who’s Not Having Fun Anymore’.

10. The most popular venues for baby showers are private homes.

Private homes are often the most popular choice of venue for baby showers in Australia, as they offer a cosy and intimate atmosphere, and are often the most cost-effective option too. However, if you’re looking for a larger space to accommodate all your guests, community halls or restaurants can also make great venues. Just remember to book in advance so you can avoid any surprises on the day.

11. And finally, while it’s easy to get caught up in the present-buying and stress of planning, it’s important to remember why you’re hosting a baby shower in the first place.

A baby shower is a celebration! It’s an opportunity to share your joy with family and friends as you prepare for the arrival of your little one. And while gifts are nice, don’t forget that a baby shower should be full of love, laughter and fun. So take a deep breath and remember to enjoy the day – because it will be one you’ll always remember!

A baby shower is a wonderful way for parents-to-be to celebrate the upcoming arrival of their little one. With lots of family and friends gathered together, a baby shower is a perfect opportunity to share your joy, have some fun and, of course, receive lots of gifts! Whether you choose a traditional tea party or something more modern such as a sip and see, it’s sure to be an event full of lasting memories. So plan your baby shower with care, relax and enjoy the day – because it’s sure to be one you’ll never forget!

So if you’re planning your own event or simply curious about this time-honoured tradition, we hope you found this article interesting and informative. And if you have any other burning questions about baby showers Down Under, feel free to drop us a line!