Why Are More New Mums Skipping Baby Showers for This Surprising New Trend?
- Replies 7
Move over, baby showers—there’s a new celebration in town, and it’s all about the grandmothers! That’s right, 'granny showers' (also known as 'grandma showers' or 'grandbaby showers') are the latest trend sweeping through family circles, and they’re sparking plenty of conversation—some of it heartwarming, some of it a little heated.
So, what exactly is a granny shower? Think of it as a baby shower, but instead of the expectant mum being the guest of honour, it’s the soon-to-be grandmother who’s in the spotlight. The idea is to celebrate her new role, shower her with love (and sometimes gifts), and help her prepare for the exciting journey of grandparenthood.
A New Way to Celebrate Family
In our ever-evolving, inclusive world, it’s no surprise that families are looking for new ways to mark life’s milestones. Becoming a grandparent is a big deal—after all, it’s a new chapter filled with cuddles, storytimes, and the joy of watching the next generation grow. For many, a granny shower is a way to acknowledge this transition and make grandma feel special.
Some families host these gatherings as a surprise, while others are organised by the grandmothers themselves. The events can range from a simple afternoon tea with close friends to a full-blown party, complete with games, decorations, and (of course) cake.
But Not Everyone’s On Board…
As with any new trend, granny showers have their critics. Some people see them as a bit over the top—or even 'narcissistic.' One seasoned grandmother, DeeDee Moore, sparked a lively debate on social media when she asked her followers what they thought about the idea. The responses were mixed, to say the least.
'It’s a big deal to become a new grandparent and it deserves to be celebrated, but it’s not the same as becoming a parent,' DeeDee pointed out. Some commenters agreed, saying that the focus should remain on the new parents and baby, not the grandparents. Others worried that it might come across as a 'gift grab,' especially since most grandmothers are already well-equipped for their new role.
One commenter didn’t mince words: 'Inappropriate and tacky. If the person is becoming a grandparent, they’ve already had their own children. The grandchild isn’t a ‘do-over’ for them.'
A Touch of Sentimentality
But it’s not all criticism. Many people see granny showers as a lovely way to bring family and friends together. After all, becoming a grandparent can be just as life-changing as becoming a parent. Some supporters suggest keeping things low-key—a lunch with friends, a few thoughtful gifts, or simply a heartfelt card.
One touching comment came from someone who lost their grandmother before their own baby was born: 'She was too sick to come to my baby shower—I wish I’d thought of this a few months prior, when she wasn’t as unwell.' For families separated by distance or circumstance, a granny shower can be a meaningful way to connect and celebrate.
What Happens at a Granny Shower?
If you’re curious about what actually goes on at a granny shower, it’s really up to the host! Some popular ideas include:
- Sharing stories and advice about grandparenting
- Gifting grandma with essentials for her house (think: a cot, baby monitor, or a stash of nappies)
- Playing games that test grandma’s knowledge of modern baby gear (it’s not all terry cloth nappies and talcum powder anymore!)
- Creating a 'grandma survival kit' with tea, chocolate, and a good book for those babysitting shifts
Of course, the most important part is making grandma feel loved and supported as she steps into her new role.
A Uniquely Australian Take
Here in Australia, we love any excuse for a get-together, and granny showers are no exception. Whether it’s a backyard barbie, a high tea, or a simple cuppa with friends, the focus is on connection and celebration. And let’s be honest—grandparents are often the unsung heroes of the family, always ready to lend a hand (or a shoulder to cry on) when things get tough.
The Bottom Line: To Shower or Not to Shower?
At the end of the day, whether you think granny showers are a sweet new tradition or a step too far, it’s all about what feels right for your family. Some will embrace the trend with open arms, while others might prefer to keep things simple.
You can watch the video below:
Credit: @morethangrand / TikTok
We’d love to hear from you, members! Have you ever attended a granny shower, or would you consider hosting one? Do you think it’s a lovely way to celebrate, or is it a bit much? Share your thoughts and stories in the comments below—let’s get the conversation started!
So, what exactly is a granny shower? Think of it as a baby shower, but instead of the expectant mum being the guest of honour, it’s the soon-to-be grandmother who’s in the spotlight. The idea is to celebrate her new role, shower her with love (and sometimes gifts), and help her prepare for the exciting journey of grandparenthood.
A New Way to Celebrate Family
In our ever-evolving, inclusive world, it’s no surprise that families are looking for new ways to mark life’s milestones. Becoming a grandparent is a big deal—after all, it’s a new chapter filled with cuddles, storytimes, and the joy of watching the next generation grow. For many, a granny shower is a way to acknowledge this transition and make grandma feel special.
Are you on board with this new trend? Credit: Pedro Kümmel / Unsplash
Some families host these gatherings as a surprise, while others are organised by the grandmothers themselves. The events can range from a simple afternoon tea with close friends to a full-blown party, complete with games, decorations, and (of course) cake.
But Not Everyone’s On Board…
As with any new trend, granny showers have their critics. Some people see them as a bit over the top—or even 'narcissistic.' One seasoned grandmother, DeeDee Moore, sparked a lively debate on social media when she asked her followers what they thought about the idea. The responses were mixed, to say the least.
'It’s a big deal to become a new grandparent and it deserves to be celebrated, but it’s not the same as becoming a parent,' DeeDee pointed out. Some commenters agreed, saying that the focus should remain on the new parents and baby, not the grandparents. Others worried that it might come across as a 'gift grab,' especially since most grandmothers are already well-equipped for their new role.
One commenter didn’t mince words: 'Inappropriate and tacky. If the person is becoming a grandparent, they’ve already had their own children. The grandchild isn’t a ‘do-over’ for them.'
A Touch of Sentimentality
But it’s not all criticism. Many people see granny showers as a lovely way to bring family and friends together. After all, becoming a grandparent can be just as life-changing as becoming a parent. Some supporters suggest keeping things low-key—a lunch with friends, a few thoughtful gifts, or simply a heartfelt card.
One touching comment came from someone who lost their grandmother before their own baby was born: 'She was too sick to come to my baby shower—I wish I’d thought of this a few months prior, when she wasn’t as unwell.' For families separated by distance or circumstance, a granny shower can be a meaningful way to connect and celebrate.
What Happens at a Granny Shower?
If you’re curious about what actually goes on at a granny shower, it’s really up to the host! Some popular ideas include:
- Sharing stories and advice about grandparenting
- Gifting grandma with essentials for her house (think: a cot, baby monitor, or a stash of nappies)
- Playing games that test grandma’s knowledge of modern baby gear (it’s not all terry cloth nappies and talcum powder anymore!)
- Creating a 'grandma survival kit' with tea, chocolate, and a good book for those babysitting shifts
Of course, the most important part is making grandma feel loved and supported as she steps into her new role.
A Uniquely Australian Take
Here in Australia, we love any excuse for a get-together, and granny showers are no exception. Whether it’s a backyard barbie, a high tea, or a simple cuppa with friends, the focus is on connection and celebration. And let’s be honest—grandparents are often the unsung heroes of the family, always ready to lend a hand (or a shoulder to cry on) when things get tough.
The Bottom Line: To Shower or Not to Shower?
At the end of the day, whether you think granny showers are a sweet new tradition or a step too far, it’s all about what feels right for your family. Some will embrace the trend with open arms, while others might prefer to keep things simple.
You can watch the video below:
Credit: @morethangrand / TikTok
We’d love to hear from you, members! Have you ever attended a granny shower, or would you consider hosting one? Do you think it’s a lovely way to celebrate, or is it a bit much? Share your thoughts and stories in the comments below—let’s get the conversation started!
.png){kind=icon}
ABSOLUTELY RIDICULOUS
the baby and the mother who is carrying the baby.
