Gender reveal parties have become increasingly popular in recent years, offering expectant parents a chance to celebrate and share the excitement of their impending arrival with loved ones. However, as these events have gained traction, questions surrounding proper etiquette, including whether or not to bring a gift, have arisen.

So, you've received an invitation to a gender reveal party, and you find yourself pondering whether or not to bring a gift. Let's explore some factors to consider before making your decision.

First and foremost, it's essential to remember that a gender reveal party is ultimately a celebration of the forthcoming addition to the family. While gifts are not traditionally expected at these events, bringing a small token of congratulations can be a thoughtful gesture. If you’re anything like me, you probably don’t feel comfortable coming to an event empty handed. The parents to be are providing food, spending money on decorations, taking the time to host a party, big or small, and it doesn’t feel right not to return the hospitality. 

Consider your relationship with the expectant parents. If you're a close friend or family member, you might feel inclined to bring a gift to mark the occasion. More than likely, if you’re being invited to a gender reveal, the hosts consider you to be close to them. Typically, gender reveals tend to be more intimate than baby showers and other large scale events.  In this case, opt for something simple yet meaningful, such as a children's book or a book for mom, a gender-neutral onesie, or a picture frame for the ultrasound printout. 

Another factor to consider is the nature of the gender reveal party itself. Some hosts may explicitly state whether gifts are expected or welcome on the invitation, while others may leave it open-ended. If you're unsure, don't hesitate to reach out to the host and ask for clarification. They will likely appreciate your thoughtfulness in wanting to adhere to proper etiquette. 

If you do decide to bring a gift, keep in mind that gender-neutral options are always a safe bet. Practical gifts, such as diapers, wipes, or gift cards for necessities, are also highly appreciated by expectant parents. Consider a diaper rose, diaper bouquet, or a small diaper cake, which are more visually appealing than a plain old box of diapers. 

If your financial situation doesn’t allow for bringing a gift or you’re in a time crunch, the hosts will understand! Your presence and warm wishes are often more than enough to contribute to the joyous atmosphere of the event.

Ultimately, the decision to bring a gift to a gender reveal party is a personal one, influenced by factors such as your relationship with the parents-to-be, the nature of the event, and your own preferences. Whether you choose to arrive empty-handed or with a small token of congratulations, the most important thing is to show your support and enthusiasm for the growing family. 

Some recommendations include:

• Diapers and/or Wipes. For a beautiful presentation that’s sure to wow the mom-to-be, consider bringing a diaper rose, diaper bouquet, or a small diaper cake.
• Children’s book. Some popular ones include the Very Hungry Caterpillar, Where’s Spot, and Go, Dog, Go. 
• Book for mom (and dad). Some that I really enjoyed were Drinking for Two (a book of recipes for non-alcoholic, nutritious, refreshing drinks), Bringing up Bebe (a non-traditional parenting book framed around anecdotes but filled with so many helpful tips), 12 Hours Sleep by 12 Weeks (because what parent doesn’t want an infant that sleeps 12 hours straight? Yes, it’s medically approved, yes, it really works - speaking from personal experience, and no, it doesn’t involve crying it out), Expecting Better (busting modern pregnancy myths and helping put the future mom at ease about making the decisions that are best for her, focusing on what mom can do during pregnancy versus what she can’t), and Cribsheets (a sequel to Expecting Better, helping parents make informed decisions about the first few years of their baby’s life).
• Gender neutral clothing. Onesies are good for this.
• A toy.
• A gift card. The easiest option for when you’re in a pinch, and the parents to be will sure find it useful. $25-50 will be sufficient depending on your relationship with the parents-to-be. 

In conclusion, while gifts are not obligatory at gender reveal parties, they can be a thoughtful way to congratulate the expectant parents and celebrate the joyous occasion. Consider your relationship with the parents-to-be, the nature of the event, and any guidance provided by the host before making your decision. Above all, let your presence and warm wishes be your most precious gift of all.

What are your thoughts on gifting at Gender Reveal parties? Comment below to let us know!