In traditional times of the past, women were often the only ones at baby showers. It used to be that only relatives and close female friends would join in the celebration of the expectant mother. Relatives often included sisters, nieces, aunts, grandmothers and mothers.

However, times have changed. No longer is this tradition widely used. Now, baby showers are for women or men. In fact, fathers can have their own baby shower event held by their friends.

If you are planning a baby shower for a close friend, it is best to ask (don’t assume) if she would like it to be a traditional shower or a co-ed shower. Chances are that men will opt out of the event but be grateful for the thought and invite. Remember, a woman didn’t get pregnant by herself so it’s important for the man to share in the tradition as well, if they so choose to.

Fathers don’t have to be the only ones invited to the shower. Why not invite other male relatives and friends to the event? These can be friends of the mother and the father. There is a catch though… you have to make them feel as if they are wanted and belong at the baby shower. Your biggest challenge: decorations. You have to find decorations that will suit men too.

Games: You’ll have to modify the games so that they include men. In fact, some games you can play include: baby bottle “suck” off, guess-the date, pick the gender (if this isn’t known) and predict the weight. Try to be flexible in the games you choose if men are coming to the event. You don’t want to embarrass them or leave them out of any games.

Party Favors: You also have to change some of the party favors and prizes you will be handing out. You can’t exactly give a man bath beads or women’s deodorant. A helpful tip in helping you choose products are to purchase gender neutral gifts such as candy, cookies, bumble gum cigars, etc. You can also get a gift certificate or card if you have the money to spend.

Food: While women are fine with finger foods, you might want to bring in some meat for the guys. You can also do a barbecue if you want. Most guests don’t mind having a potluck so have your guests will bring their favorite dishes. Men too.

Attendance: If you have a lot of people showing up, have a book set aside for people to sign their name in and give their blessings. This notebook will be a wonderful gift to the soon-to-be-parents.

If you are wondering, it’s perfectly fine for a man to accept a gift for his unborn child. It can be anything but a man’s touch is nice. If you know the baby is to be a boy, then you can get some boy items that the father-to-be can open.

Another helpful tip: When you are sending invitations out, address it to the couple not just the woman of the household.