A couple of years ago, my friend Emily invited me to her baby’s gender reveal party. Do you bring a gift to a gender reveal party? That’s the first question that came to my mind. I was new to this kind of party at that time and wasn’t sure what the etiquette was. Are you supposed to congratulate the parents-to-be with a present like you would a baby shower?
Emily and her husband clearly couldn’t use much in the way of clothing or toys yet since they didn’t know if they’re having a boy or girl. And it’s still a few months before the baby arrives. At the same time, it felt wrong to show up empty handed when they’re celebrating that special moment.
From my experience, I can offer my take on whether or not to bring gifts to a gender reveal party. Let’s find out.
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What Is a Gender Reveal Party?
So what exactly is a gender reveal party? It’s a celebration where expectant parents announce the sex of their baby to friends and family. It’s typically held around the 18-20 week mark in the second trimester.
These days, there are all sorts of creative ways to share the exciting news. Cutting into a cake to see what color-filling is inside is a classic.
Others may go a step further, filling a piñata with either pink candies or blue toys to bash open. Balloons, confetti poppers, and colorful smoke or glitter explosions have also become popular dramatic reveals.
There may be games with gender-prediction themes, food, drinks, and of course lots of congratulations all around!
As with baby showers, the purpose is to surround the parents-to-be with love and support as they prepare to welcome their new bundle of joy.
Do you bring a gift to a gender reveal party? We’ll find that out in the next section.
Do You Bring a Gift to a Gender Reveal Party? What’s Proper Etiquette?
There is no clear-cut gift-giving etiquette for gender-reveal parties. Unlike baby showers that always involve gifts, not all expectant parents host these events. So does that mean you should bring something to celebrate the occasion?
The short answer is: it’s appreciated but not required.
Since gender reveals are more casual affairs than traditional showers, you don’t need to put pressure on yourself to bring a present. The focus is really on having fun announcing the baby’s sex and sharing the joy.
If you want to bring a gift, a small token of congratulations or onesie that can work for a boy or girl, go for it. But don’t feel obligated either.
Some guests like to get ultrasound albums, books focused on pregnancy or new motherhood, gift cards for date nights, or pampering products. cute stuffed animals or blankets work too if you suspect the sex.
More than anything, a heartfelt card is a thoughtful way to mark the event if your budget is tight. Remember that it’s about celebrating the couple, not gifts.
So, do you bring a gift to a gender reveal party? There’s no firm rule, but bringing a small token of congratulations is perfectly acceptable for the occasion.
Some Proper Gift Ideas for Gender Reveal Parties
Do you bring a gift to a gender reveal party? I’ve already explained that it’s a personal decision. Gift giving is not mandatory here. But if you still want to give something, that should be appropriate for the occasion.
Here are some thoughtful gift ideas that would be suitable for celebrating the big announcement.
Opt for Gender Neutral
Since you won’t yet know the baby’s sex, stick to gender-neutral colors and themes to avoid disappointment.
Earth tones like yellows, greens, and whites are always safe bets. Avoid anything boy or girl specific, so the gift can be enjoyed no matter what.
You might also give cozy cotton blankets, gender-neutral onesies, or a package of newborn diapers. Fragrance-free lotions, creams, and soaps are practical for the baby’s sensitive skin.
Keep It Useful For Early Days
Think about items that the baby’s parents will need right away in those first few hectic months.
Burp cloths, diapers, baby wipes, or a package of baby washcloths in a happy print are great choices they can start using in the hospital. No need to buy things they won’t need for months.
If you’d like to get them something for a baby’s nursery or toy bin, wooden or fabric blocks, rattles, and soft books are classic choices.
Practical Over Pretty
While a frilly decorative item might seem like a cute reveal gift, avoid anything that won’t serve an actual purpose.
Focus on practical essentials they can put to use rather than unused decor they’ll have to store for years.
Take Cues from the Registry
Following any registry requests is a nice way to ensure you choose something the parents will love and use.
Or you can buy something that matches the party theme (if any mentioned in the invitation card).
Pamper the New Mom
Expecting a baby is no small feat, and pregnancy does a number on a woman’s body. So, keeping the future mom comfortable should be a priority.
She will love pampering gifts like a pregnancy pillow or robe. Luxury lotions, soothing foot soaks, a massage roller, or rubber-grip socks are also nice ideas. Gift baskets containing an assortment of these treats are sure to please.
Don’t Forget about the Dad
If you know that everyone else is bringing gifts for the baby and the mom, consider giving something to the would-be dad.
Gifts like a gift card for meal delivery will give both parents a needed break. it’s one less dinner they’ll need to worry about. A family photo session voucher for capturing these fleeting but joyful moments will be great too.
Conclusion
The most meaningful thing you can bring to a gender reveal celebration is your excitement for the new family member on the way. Your support and smile are the most valuable presents of all.
So whether or not you give a gift, don’t miss out on being part of such a fun milestone. I’m sure the parents-to-be will be thrilled simply to share the special moment with loved ones.
