When our first little girl was born, we really wanted to share the joy with our friends and family in a special way.  Unlike many of our friends at the time, we had a brunch, open house style, at my parents’ house.  I realize that every place in the world, every culture or tradition, even every circle of friends have their own ways.  Most of our friends were having a party at an event hall or restaurant.

Several points to consider about a baby party :  that is, when they’re not dictated by a specific tradition.  When to have the party:  Obviously, getting anything going with a tiny baby, especially a first one, is difficult.  But there are two advantages to having the party earlier rather than later:  first is that people want to come see the baby.  And instead of having to schedule separately with each and every one who’s calling, let them all know when the collective viewing time is.  Second, is you may get presents, which you may need to use already.  For example, many of the clothes people brought sized for “newborns”, were already too small for our one month old, who was born relatively big.

Where to have the party: Keeping things close to home and low key was truly convenient with a new baby.  What to do at the party: some traditions have some kind of main event.  At the very least, the parents will speak to the guests about their feelings and gratitude, or about the chosen name (speech!).  I’m a big fan of picture slide shows or homemade movies (good ones!)  Otherwise, guests come and sit to a meal, and dare I say, might feel a little trapped for several hours.  Often, the baby everyone came to see is indisposed.  At our open house style party, there was no main event, but we had the liberty of visiting with each of the guests at leisure (and they had the liberty of leaving whenever was suitable for their schedule).

Try to think about the party possibilities before the birth, when you have the mental capacity for it.  And try to enlist help.  My parents threw us the party as a gift, and consulted us about our preferences, but took care of everything.  Thank you Mom and Dad!!

So – what kind of party is typical in your area?  Which did you choose?  What lessons have you learned for next time? What would you have done differently?