From the moment we know we are pregnant, Latina moms aspire to share our love for our culture with our children. Knowing we get to pass down traditions and introduce another human being to the things that make us who we are, is one of the most exciting things about becoming a mom. A good way to start right out the gate is to have a baby shower that reflects our traditions, food and customs.
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Some of us really can't help but have a Latino baby shower, because well…what other way is there to celebrate than the way we've always known? But if you want to do so even more intentionally, here are some lovely ideas to incorporate your Latino culture into your baby shower.
Start with an invitation that's clearly Latino.
A Latin-influenced baby shower invitation will set the theme and get everybody excited about the party—and it will give guests some insight into what to expect when they arrive. Plus, it gives a starting point for planning the decor and other details.
Use the language.
It might seem obvious, but one prominent way to continue the Latino theme throughout your baby shower is to use the language. Whether it's ballons, table settings, or on the games, find ways to incorporate Spanish into the baby shower decor.
The games should reflect the theme.
Playing La Loteria—a bingo of sorts with Latino illustrations or topics, for example—is a great way to stay on theme. You might also use a piñata, especially if some of the guests will be children, or even just for decoration or even for example create a pregnancy bingo game that includes some Latino old wives' tales.
Make it colorful.
We Latinos are known for our love of color, and while it may seem stereotypical at times, it's kind of true. And there's just something about arriving at a brightly decorated event that sets the festive level on high.
Make sure to include the family, even the ones that are far away.
Maybe abuela or madrina are far away or it's not yet safe to celebrate in large groups of people, but you can still include far-off friends and family members via video group video call. It won't take long at all to set up and will make the celebration even sweeter.
Obviously, there must be traditional food.
It could be typical dishes from the countries of mom and dad. It could be a different selection of plates from Latin American countries. You can also serve Latino sodas or drinks from different places, just remember the mom-to-be shouldn't be drinking alcohol. And it's probably a good idea not to have everyone serving themselves from the same dish. Instead, set out individual portions.
There must be music and if possible dancing.
There isn't a better way to get a Latino party going than with music. It's in our blood and the baby will love it. Even your non-Latino friends won't be able to sit still if there's some good salsa, bachata or cumbia going.
Have it outside.
You know Latinos love a good cookout, so why not plan an outdoor baby shower? Recruit someone to grill up tons of meat or roast a whole pig, set up the dominoes, and let your cultura shine through the occasion. Even better: It'll be much safer for everyone if there are still health concerns.
Hire a musician.
We love the idea of hiring a musician (or recruiting a talented family member) to play some live music that's traditional to your country for the baby shower. It's so festive and will create a memory that won't soon be forgotten. Just be sure whoever it is is willing to follow health protocols.
Get some capias.
Not because anyone besides your mom and your abuela is likely to keep them, but because they are such a nostalgic tradition. Nothing says Latino special occasion like these intricate ribbon creations.
Don't forget desserts.
Another lovely way to incorporate your culture into your baby shower is to include some really special Latino desserts. Whether it's traditional Dominican cake, Puerto Rican bizcocho mojadito, or festive Mexican conchas, serve up some sweet treats that you grew up with.
Even a drive-by baby shower can be Latino-influenced.
Even if you have to opt for a drive-by baby shower in order to adhere to your state's current health safety protocols, there's no reason you can't infuse the event with some Latin flavor. Decorate the outside of your home, hand out those capias individually and give each gift a tasty Latino dessert to take home all boxed up. Heck, you could even still hire the live musician.
