One of the best things about finding out that you’re pregnant is finding a fun, adorable way to announce it to your family and friends. In recent years, social media has helped make big, elaborate pregnancy announcements the standard, but for those who want a more intimate affair, we’ve put together some great suggestions below.
Our Favorite Ways to Tell the father
Our first suggestion is called “The Baby Themed Meal.” Plan a special dinner for two with the father with a special menu. Baby back ribs with roasted baby carrots and steamed baby bok choy are our favorite menu, and just subtle enough that he might not get the hint. If he doesn’t, you can put a special bib around his neck (for the ribs, of course) that says something about him being a brand-new dad! No doubt he’ll put together the pieces soon enough, and you get the pleasure of watching him realize he’s going to be a father!
Another great way to tell the father is with a game of “Baby Hide and Seek.” Go to the store and pick up a bunch of small baby items (rattle, bottle, booties, bib, etc.). For about a week or so, try leaving them around the house in places where he’s very likely to find them. If then he doesn’t ask you, “what’s with all that baby stuff?” you can plan a big reveal at the end of the week where you place a teddy bear in a high chair at the dinner table next to a sign announcing the big news.
When the father works far from home or is deployed in the military, it can be very hard to find a way to tell them that feels impactful. In this case, we recommend a “Baby Care Package.” You might include a bunch of baby items, a baby naming book, or some shirts that say “proud papa,” etc. Trust us, he’ll love it.
Our Favorite Ways to Tell Family and Friends
One of the most affordable and fun ways to tell the extended family is to plan an event (or show up at an existing one) wearing a shirt that clearly announces your condition. “Baby on Board” or “A Bun in the Oven” is always classic. You can also wear a sweater or coat on top to save the moment of the big reveal for when you have everyone’s full attention.
Of course, the only people who are likely to be more excited than the soon-to-be father are the soon-to-be grandparents. One of the best ways to tell them is to give them a give announcing their upcoming grand-parenthood. From t-shirts to hats to mugs and more, the tears will start rolling the second realization dawns. Plus, the object will turn into something they’ll cherish forever.
Of course, these are just a few of the countless ways that you can spread the news, and there’s no wrong way to do it! If you’re feeling particularly nostalgic (and a little sneaky), you should try to catch the moment on video so you can watch the reactions for years to come.