When a woman is expecting a baby, it only makes sense that her friends and family may want to hold a party (or two) to celebrate the upcoming birth. There are two different parties that are particularly popular options for the baby shower and the gender reveal party. Whether you are the mom-to-be or you are planning a party for a loved one, it is important that you understand the differences between these events so that you can start planning!

Baby Showers

Baby showers are events that are designed to shower the mom-to-be and baby with gifts of things they will need when baby is born. These events normally offer games or other entertainment for all the attendees, as well as cake and other snacks. Toward the end of the party, the mom will normally open the gifts so the party-goers can all ooh and ahh over all the cute little baby things!

Gender Reveal Parties

Another event that has become popular in recent years is the gender reveal party. With more and more women finding out the gender of the baby long before the baby is born, this event offers a fun way for moms to share this information with friends, family and loved ones in one fell swoop. This party often has just simple snacks or a cake. Sometimes guests bring a small, token gift, but it is not a big part of the event.

No matter what type of party you are planning for an upcoming birth, you can make your event as big and bold or as small and cozy as you’d like. Find the perfect location, put together some great snacks, decide what entertainment will work best for your crowd, and send out those invitations a baby is on the way!