Uncover the Groundbreaking New Approach to Parenting Today
Upon becoming a parent, I quickly realized the importance of having a supportive community by your side. My journey through pregnancy and postpartum was challenging as I grappled with anxiety and the profound identity shift that comes with raising a child. To navigate this transformation, I stepped out of my comfort zone and connected with like-minded women who were also navigating the early stages of motherhood.
As I prepared for my second child, my friends offered their assistance, and I decided to host a unique gathering known as a nesting party or mama shower. Given that I already had a daughter and had received plenty of products through my work as a journalist, I didn’t need material items for the new addition to our family. Instead, I craved a celebration of motherhood and practical assistance to ease the chaotic initial weeks.
I wasn’t alone in opting for a non-traditional baby shower; many expectant mothers are choosing more intimate and purposeful gatherings over traditional events. The rise in searches for “nesting party” and “nesting party ideas” reflects this shift. Gina Jokilehto, owner of Shi Shi Events, believes that these gatherings have gained popularity due to the need for a supportive community for new parents.
At my mama shower, my friends came together to create a meaningful experience centered around stocking our freezer with meals and showering me with blessings. With our baby gear already set up, the focus was on preparing meals to alleviate the stress of meal planning with a newborn and a toddler.
One friend took charge as Head Chef, organizing recipes and collecting contributions to cover grocery costs. This not only allowed friends from afar to participate but also provided us with additional meals. While some friends cooked in the kitchen, others joined me for belly painting and writing birth affirmations.
The gathering not only brought my closest friends together but also provided an opportunity for those without children to feel included. It was a collaborative and heartwarming event that showcased the power of a supportive community in the journey of parenthood.
Expecting mothers often find themselves inundated with cute baby items during traditional baby showers, which can sometimes make friends and family members uncomfortable. What people can truly connect with and what women may need more of is support during this significant life transition. With the impending arrival of a new baby who will already have the undivided attention of two parents, it seems fitting to shine the spotlight on the pregnant woman for a day. If your mother or mother-in-law insists on a traditional baby shower, consider letting them host one in your honor and handle all the details. However, if you prefer a more intimate gathering with your closest girlfriends and family members, you can suggest having a mama shower or nesting party, especially if it’s your second pregnancy.
I personally viewed my mama shower as an alternative to a “baby sprinkle” and made it clear that I didn’t want any gifts. For me, the true gift was feeling the support of my village as we prepared to welcome our new addition. As a mother, there are only so many ways you can extend yourself, and when anticipating the arrival of another child, a nesting shower can provide the extra hands needed to organize and prepare for the new baby’s arrival. Whether it’s the first, second, or even third child, nesting showers offer support for the entire family.
My mama shower was held around my 38th week of pregnancy, and the timing felt just right. This allowed the freezer meals to be enjoyed fresh and flavorful when reheated, matching my energy levels. Nesting parties have become increasingly popular among expectant mothers as they cater to the natural urge many feel in the third trimester to prepare their homes. It’s a celebratory way for the mama-to-be to get the house ready without feeling overwhelmed.
Twelve days after my mama shower, my second daughter was born, with the affirmations from my friends decorating the walls as a reminder of their love and support. Coming home to pre-prepared meals like shepherd’s pie and Italian meatball soup made the transition to caring for two children smoother. The breakfast burritos were a lifesaver, especially when juggling tasks with only one free hand as a mom.
What I will always cherish from my nesting party is the memory of looking around my living room and seeing the women who have guided me through motherhood, offering grace during the challenges and celebrating every step of my journey. Motherhood encompasses the good, the hard, the bad, the beautiful, and the messy, and having a supportive village is a true blessing for both myself and my daughters.
