Many parents want to shout from the rooftops when they find out they're pregnant. That's one option, but there’s a lot of other fun ways you can announce your new arrival, as well. From unique t-shirts to gender reveal parties, there are dozens of ways to announce that you are pregnant, the sex of your baby, and your due date to family, friends, and even complete strangers.
Traditional Announcements
There are a few different ways you can stay traditional while still making your announcement very much your own. Websites like Shutterfly, Zazzle, and even your standard Walgreens, WalMart, or Target photo center can help you create (online or in-store) pregnancy and birth announcements.
Including an ultrasound photo is a nice way to express the closeness you feel with those you cards to. A classy shot of your pregnant belly or growing family can also make a great background. Alternatively, opt for a wedding-esque save-the-date card, and replace it with your own pictures, theme, and due date. Using this theme also gives you the option to send a follow-up birth announcement, in line with the wedding invitation that follows a save-the-date card.
Some stores will mail your cards for a small fee, or you can have them sent to you so you can mail them yourself. Mailing them yourself gives you the option to turn plain cards into a refrigerator magnet or another less flimsy option.
Social Media
Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and the million other social sites present a variety of ways to make your big announcement. The best part is, you can be as extravagant or as simple as you want. Take a picture with a sign that says "## Weeks Pregnant" and an arrow pointing to your belly. Post your ultrasound. Super simple!
If you want to get more extravagant, make or buy t-shirts for you and your spouse that say "Pea in the Pod," "Dad to Be," or "The Bump" and "The Man Behind the Bump." If you already have children, go for "big brother" or "big sister" on the front with your due date on the back. You can find a ton of cute shirts online with slogans like, "I'm so cute, mom and dad did it again" or "Does this shirt make me look pregnant?" Whatever your style, it’s out there. You can even pull grandparents, aunts, uncles, or cousins into the big news. Take groups shots, individual shots, or make a short video. Some families record mom telling dad.
If you want to go really big, call your local radio station, and pair your announcement with a baby themed song (i.e. "Baby Love" by the Supremes). You can make an announcement in newspapers as well, but this traditionally takes place after the baby is born.
In-Person
Telling the grandparents is generally more of an in-person kind of experience. Throw a party, and wear an announcement apron. Write it on a cake, or bake miniature pacifiers inside cupcakes. If you’ve been waiting to make sure everything goes smoothly and you already know the sex, get a box of pink or blue balloons to open during dessert.
During the holidays or a birthday, you can pass out homemade coupon books. Include coupons for things like "free diaper changes" and "one newborn cuddle session." Alternatively, create a "wanted ad" looking for future babysitters, play date availabilities, and ending with your due date for the position beginning.
There are a million ways to share your big news. Do what’s fun and makes you comfortable!
