Last Updated on April 10, 2023 by Kimberlee Johnson
Are you pregnant and curious about the gender of your baby? If so, you might wonder when it is best to have a gender reveal party.
Hence, we will share with you when to have a gender reveal party and what you should consider before deciding whether or not to throw one.
When To Throw A Gender Reveal Party
Generally, traditional gender reveal parties occur between 20-24 weeks into the pregnancy, many parents opt for sooner dates, such as 16 or 17 weeks.
“Making the decision to have a child is momentous. It is to decide forever to have your heart go walking around outside your body.”
– Elizabeth Stone, Essayist, Journalist & Author
Additionally, hosting the event too early may lead to a false prediction if complications arise during delivery and vice versa.
With today’s technology, couples can now share their baby’s news with friends and family earlier in the pregnancy than before.
No matter when you decide to throw the party, rest assured that the day will be full of surprises.
Related Post: 15 Most Popular Baby Shower Ideas That Are Gender-Neutral
Could A Gender Reveal Party Be Too Soon At 12 Weeks?
Planning a gender reveal party typically takes place closer to 20 weeks, but some couples may hold the event at 12 weeks, believing that the results will be more accurate.
Usually, at 12 weeks, various tests still need to be done to accurately and definitively determine the baby’s gender, so many people feel that having such a party before that could be jumping the gun.
That said, in some cases, these results can still be inaccurate, as due to certain external factors, it can take up to 24 weeks for the accuracy to improve.
Ultimately it is the couple’s decision when to plan a gender reveal party; however, if accuracy is important and avoiding any potential disappointment is a priority, waiting until at least 20 weeks may be wiser.
Is It Too Soon To Have A Gender Reveal Party At 16 Weeks?
Gender reveal parties are becoming increasingly popular, with 16 weeks being the earliest stage at which some people may choose to find out the gender of their baby.
Although no evidence reveals the most valuable time to have a gender reveal party, experts agree that waiting until after 20 weeks is safest to have the most reliable results.
At 16 weeks, early ultrasounds can provide parents [1] with an approximation of what they could expect – while false readings are not completely uncommon, waiting for even a few more weeks can greatly reduce the risk of misunderstanding.
With this in mind, it is probably preferable for many soon-to-be parents to wait and refrain from planning their gender reveal party until it is more convenient for them to do so.
Who Typically Hosts A Gender Reveal Party?
Typically, the host of the gender reveals party is either the expecting parents or the mother’s family or close friends.
It is sometimes even common for grandparents to throw a baby shower.
Hosts can choose to keep the gender of the baby private between them and their doctor; instead, guests learn as they do at many surprise bashes.
More often than not, with this type of event, it’s up to the potential hosts to decide who will be invited and how it all comes together.
Whether it’s family, friends, or the expecting parents, no matter who chooses to host, a gender reveal party is certainly a memorable way to celebrate.
What Shouldn’t You Do At A Gender Reveal Party?
When attending a gender reveal party, there are several behaviors to avoid to ensure an enjoyable time for everyone.
A parent’s wishes should be honored and cultural norms considered; thus, a surprise doesn’t have to be a big show.
Keep confetti, balloons, and other props at a reasonable level –- although everyone is excited to find out the baby’s gender, remember that the event is ultimately about celebrating the new family and supporting them during this joyous occasion.
In addition, try not to spoil their special moment by guessing or offering alternative ideas for how the announcement should be made.
After all, you wouldn’t want anyone else spoiling your big moment. But how can you tell someone they’re not invited to the party?
FAQs
Do guests traditionally bring presents at a gender reveal party?
It’s not mandatory, but it is customary for guests to bring a small gift to a gender reveal party.
What should a guest bring to a gender reveal party?
Some common gifts guests might bring to a gender reveal party include baby onesies or clothes, diapers and wipes [2], pacifiers, toys, and cake or cupcakes.
How long does a gender reveal party typically last?
A gender reveal party typically lasts about 2-3 hours. Many people like to have a little bit of food, some games, and maybe a decoration, then they open the presents and announce the baby’s gender.
Bottom Line
All in all, there is no wrong time to have a gender reveal party. It is completely up to the parents when they want to throw the party and make the big announcement.
Many factors can contribute to when the best time for gender would be. However, it comes down to what you and your loved ones find most convenient.
So go ahead and plan away. And remember, whether you’re team pink or blue (or green), your friends or loved ones are excited to meet your new little one.
Reference:
- https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/guide-parents.html
- https://www.sfweekly.com/townnews/anatomy/5-key-benefits-of-using-flushable-wipes/article_e464c710-292a-501b-8d91-659f21019b30.html
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