Craft Gossip

Independent craft blog since 2007

6 Tips for Hosting an Adoption Shower

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Sometimes those who are adopted are forgotten when it comes to showers to celebrate a new addition to a family. Nicole Witt, Executive Director of The Adoption Consultancy, says there are six key tips to keep in mind if you’re planning an adoption shower for a friend or family member who is adding to the family.

  1. Ask What Time Works Best: Some people prefer showers before the adoption, while others would like to wait.  Ask the prospective parents what they want. Some will want the baby shower prior to the birth so they can enjoy what other women get to enjoy, while others will prefer to have the shower after the placement when they no longer have to worry about the adoption falling through.
  2. Specify Age, Gender and Size on the Party Invites: If the child was not adopted as a newborn or if the shower is taking place some time after the placement, make sure guests know the age (& sizes) of the child so they can buy appropriate clothing
  3. Choose an Appropriate Theme: An adoption shower should have a non-pregnancy theme, either something cultural associated with the birth mother’s life or where the baby will be/was born. You can also make it match the nursery design the parents have selected.
  4. Consider a Co-ed Shower: Having a co-ed shower makes it less baby-centric and more of a celebration of life and the parenting journey.
  5. Adult Beverages or Fancy Non-Alcoholic Drink Are a Must: Serve mimosas or another specialty/themed cocktail (with alcohol or not) so that the adoptive mom gets something special from not being pregnant.
  6. Games Are A Must–But Stay Away from Anything Pregnancy Related: Do a baby shower games that don’t relate to pregnancy, such as Nursery Rhyme Jeopardy or a Baby Item Scavenger Hunt.

If your shower is for a child placed through an international adoption, I love the globe themed shower at The Pleated Poppy. I think this beautiful event perfectly showcases the miracle of the adoption process. If you think about it, there’s nothing more amazing than a child traveling halfway around the world to meet his forever family.

Have you read?

Michaela McMillan: Weaving Stories into Sculptural Art

Michaela McMillan is a UK-based mixed media artist known for her unique, narrative-driven sculptures made from recycled and found materials. Her work is deeply inspired by a childhood filled with parables and a strong ‘Good Life’ philosophy, which emphasizes sustainability and resourcefulness—values that continue to shape her artistic practice.

At the core of Michaela’s creations is her love for storytelling, paired with a deep connection to nature. Her sculptures often feature animals and human figures, skillfully assembled using decoupage, assemblage, and textile techniques. Each piece is a playful yet thought-provoking exploration of themes like identity, transformation, and the environment.

Michaela’s work has been featured in various exhibitions, including a notable show called “Our Journey” at Hub Sleaford in 2022. Her pieces are praised for their intricate details and the way they breathe new life into discarded objects, turning them into treasured works of art.

For those who are interested in discovering more about Michaela McMillan’s artistic journey and her eco-conscious approach to sculpture, her portfolio offers a fascinating glimpse into her ongoing commitment to sustainable, meaningful art.