The traditional baby shower done in the presence of relatives and friends that observes community-specific rituals, remains alive and well. However many expecting families are putting a new spin on things. Classy and elegant baby showers are the order of the day. The western concept of a baby shower, with a close-knit group of friends and family, is picking up among Chennaiites.
Recently, senior consultant Priyanka Sachdev’s sister-in-law Aditi, and sister Radhika, along with a few friends, organised a baby shower for her where a close circle of friends were invited to celebrate. “The plan to host the baby shower had started even before I came to Chennai for my delivery. My friends and I gathered and spent time together after ages. Unlike the traditional Valaikappu, this was informal. My sister-in-law referred to websites to put together the whole thing and it was beautiful. The cake, feeding bottles and the mom-to-be crown — I was showered with attention and love,” she says and adds that they even had a few games to keep the gathering lively.
“We had Play-Doh, where everyone used clay to make something baby-related, and the guests had to drink juice from a feeding bottle. I loved celebrating one of the most important milestones in my life with friends.”
Amrita Samant, photographer of ‘Mommy shots by Amrita’ says that westernised baby showers can be likened to a ‘baby moon’ (similar to honeymoon) — a concept that has picked up in recent times. “As a photographer, I get to capture a small gathering that is present to give all their attention to the mom-to-be. The concept for each shower is different. While some are theme-based, there are others that are just about gathering to give gifts and talking about what being a mother entails. The mom-to-be is seen glowing throughout the shower, so capturing such shots is exciting.”
Divya Pandurangam, a professional event manager who has thrown a number of baby showers in recent times says that moms-to-be want something that is not as elaborate and formal as a Valaikaapu. Divya says, “These baby showers are informal and mostly the closest friend or family throws the party for the mom-to-be. Friends come together and decide themes and little things that matter a lot in putting together a baby shower. Be it the flavour of the cake or the kind of icing of a cupcake, they take care of it. The shower is for the mom-to-be to be around loved ones and enjoy the attention.” She adds, “The showers we organise are personalised to the taste of the mom-to-be. It is not a childish affair but a sophisticated get together that would be enjoyed by women 25-35 years old.”
