The giving of gifts to mother and baby has been popular throughout the ages, usually taking place after the birth at a religious ceremony or the baby’s debut.  In America in the late 1800’s this custom was expanded upon as Victorian ladies began holding tea parties for the new mother as a platform for the giving. At this time it was considered improper for pregnant ladies to appear in public so they were held after the birth. As protocol changed however in the early 1900’s, so too did the timing of these teas and they transformed into “showers" based on the showering of the bride before her marriage.

The baby shower as it became known grew quickly in popularity, particularly after the Second World War when there was an air of joviality and an urge to celebrate life. These days millions are thrown throughout America each year, with New Zealand, Australia and South Africa following suit and taking the custom as their own.

Here in the UK we have been slower on the uptake and the trend is only now starting to really grow, with celebrities leading the way. George Michael recently held a high-profile baby shower for Geri Haliwell, with guests including Emma Bunton.

A traditional baby shower is an all female event held in the third trimester (last three months of pregnancy), organised by a close friend or relative of the expectant mother. Invites are sent, often with a theme and there are nibbles, drinks and possibly games before the gifts are given.

These dayshowever anything goes. It can be as low-key or as grand an occasion as you choose, from a few drinks after work to the full works in a hired venue. You could opt for a surprise, hold it after the birth or even invite the men folk if you want. Whatever the form, the underlying sentiment is the same - to spoil mum and celebrate the new little life (or lives) she has been working so hard to grow.