Oh Baby! 20 Marvelous Baby Shower Mocktails

Sure, your bestie can’t drink alcohol, but that doesn’t mean her baby shower drinks have to be basic and boring. In fact, whether you’re seeking sweet pink and blue sips or just a hack for her favorite mimosa, these 20 mocktails are so delish, no one will even miss the real deal. Mix together a batch (or two, or three), and then let the cake munching and present opening begin.

1. Sherbet Church Punch: A classic that can be found at everything from holiday parties to church socials, sherbet punch is an oldie but goodie. Serve it at your friend’s shower as a fruity, fizzy treat. (via The Chic Site)

2. Preggy Punch: We can’t decide what we love most about this whimsical, carnival-esque drink: the goofy name, jelly bean toss-ins or sweet cotton candy topper. One thing we do know: We totally want one. (via A Spicy Perspective)

3. Ombre Grapefruit Mocktail: From wedding dresses to hairstyles, we’re crazy about all things ombre. Carry the fun over to your pal’s shower by serving this grapefruit concoction in sugar-rimmed flutes. (via Handmade Mood)

4. “Under the Sea” Punch: Take a dive beneath the sea with refreshing blue raspberry lemonade punch that’s equally perfect for a baby shower or kid’s birthday bash. (via Food Family + Finds)

5. M&M + Cookie Dough Milkshake: While boozy milkshakes will always hold a special place in our 21-and-older hearts, this non-alcoholic masterpiece tastes just as deliciously indulgent. (via PopSugar)

6. Lemon-Lime Blue Slushie: Who says slushies are only for kids? This lemon-lime delight is sure to hit the spot (and make your tongue blue) at any summer shower, no 7-Eleven Slurpee run required. (via Baked by Rachel)

7. Frozen Strawberry Milk Slushie: Give your childhood fave a fun, frozen twist with this two-step, five-minute recipe. (via Picky Palate)

8. Shirley Temple: Pretty, pink and totally classic, the Shirley Temple gets even sweeter in a Pop Rocks-rimmed glass. (via Parenting)

9. Sparkling Peach Punch: Not digging the idea of pink or blue sips? Sparkling peach punch is a fun and festive choice. (via The Kitchn)

10. Cucumber + Mint Limeade: Even if you can’t exactly celebrate in the tropics, you can still get your friends in a beachy state-of-mind with some mojito-inspired limeade. (via So, Let’s Hang Out)

11. Virgin Strawberry Orange Mimosa: Is the mommy-to-be missing her go-to Sunday mimosa? This non-alcoholic take is a great choice for baby shower brunching. (via Blackberry Farm)

12.  Piña Colada Float: If you like piña coladas, we know you’ll just love this frothy float featuring homemade pineapple sherbet. (via Cooking Classy)

13. Cranberry Cutie Mocktail: Clementine “cutie” orange slices take this blush mocktail from already awesome to absolutely adorbs. (via This Week for Dinner)

14. Iced Chocolate: With an icy concoction this irresistible, we think hot chocolate had better watch its back. (via Taste and Tell)

15. Virgin Grapefruit Mojito: Whether you serve it alone or paired with the cucumber and mint limeade featured above, this virgin mojito will bring tons of island flair right to your own backyard. (via HGTV)

16. Spiced Cider Punch: Step aside, hot cider. This chilled variation is just as tasty, plus super easy to serve in glass jars or shower-appropriate baby bottles. (via Taste and Tell)

17. Little Star Mocktail: This pineapple, grapefruit and coconut mocktail is just right for welcoming your family’s newest little star. (via Parents)

18. Blackberry Lemon Mocktail: Standard lemonade gets a spiffy makeover with the addition of seltzer and juicy, delicious blackberries. (via Running to the Kitchen)

19. Strawberry Rosewater Fizz: Fresh strawberries, rosewater and cute mason jar glasses make for a sweet, one-of-a-kind treat. (via Kitchenette)

20. Watermelon Basil Soda Pop: Running behind on party prep? This watermelon soda requires just four ingredients and is ready to go in 15 minutes. We’ll definitely drink to that. (via The Scrumptious Pumpkin)

What’s your favorite baby shower mocktail? Spill your thoughts below.

Picking the perfect name for your baby can feel like a mix of excitement (it's a big deal!) and pressure. You want something you love that feels unique and also has some meaning — but you haven’t even met the little person whose name it will be for the rest of their life?! Plus, you and your partner have to agree on a name, which can make the whole process feel daunting.

Before we even knew we were having a girl, my partner and I struggled to agree on boy names. But naming my daughter was surprisingly easy. That was settled on our first date — Matilda was a name he had always loved and I came to love it too.

If you’re still on the hunt for the one, don’t worry. We’ve got you covered. Here are 75+ baby names set to trend in 2025. According to Baby Center, this year’s big inspirations come from pop culture, sports, and celestial themes. Music-inspired picks like Chappell and Kendrick are climbing the charts, while sports stars Caitlin and Travis are making waves as top contenders in the babe department too. Ready for some fresh baby name ideas? Let’s dive in!

The Top Trending Baby Names

Jonathan Borba

Andie

This cute name, from the Greek name Andreas, means "strong" or "manly" but I also think it makes a great feminine name (Andie MacDowell, anyone?).

Apple

Apple Martin's debut in Paris may have sparked baby name buzz inspired by the symbol of love, beauty, and wisdom.

Arlette

This combo of French words meaning "lion" and "of God" conveys something fierce, as well as divine protection.

Arthur

Arthur has multiple meanings, including "bear-like" (cute), "of honor," and "strong man."

Aurora

This mystical name means "dawn" in Latin. It also has Sleeping Beauty vibes.

Yuri Shirota

Beckam

"Beck" means "brook" while "ham" means "home." Either way, it's a strong name from soccer + Spice Girls fame.

Billie

Billie Holiday or Billie Eilish, you've got good role models covered. This British and German name means "protection," and it's short for William or Wilhelmina.

Boden

Bode comes from the Old Saxon word bodo meaning "messenger."

Bodhi

This very spiritual name means "final enlightenment," or your way to Nirvaṇa.

Colin Maynard

Caitlin

This popular name, thanks to WNBA player Caitlin Clark, is derived from the Gaelic term caith, meaning "pure."

Carmen

Wine lovers? This name means "garden" or "vineyard."

Casey

"Brave" and "vigilant" are words that make up the gender-neutral name Casey.

Chappell

Chappell was an Old English name meaning “one who works at the chapel," but it can also mean a safe space for friends and family.

Rene Terp

Circe

For those who loved the book Circe, the origins of this name make sense: a feminine name of Greek origin meaning "to secure with rings" and a symbol of feminine strength and individuality.

Cove

This sensory name can mean "bold" and "courageous." It's a great one for coastal lovers!

Crew

The name Crew signifies unity and collective strength.

Raul Angel

Edgar

Edgar comes from the Anglo-Saxon words meaning "rich or prosperous" and "spear."

Eclipse

Astrology lovers might lean into this name that signifies seeking change and ushering in evolution.

Elodie

This French name means "wealthy" or "riches."

Emir

Emir comes from an Arabic word for "commander" or "prince."

Emrys

This gender-neutral Welsh name means "immortal."

Pixabay

George/Georgia

These classic names comes from the Greek word georgos, or earth worker, and are inspired by the dragon-slaying knight Saint George.

Goldie

Goldie means "gold" and cues visions of the lovable actress Goldie Hawn.

Anna Shvets

Hallie

A variant of the name "Hayley," this actually ancient name is short for the word "Hallelujah."

Hazel

In Celtic lore, Hazel is associated with "wisdom" and "inspiration."

Holden

This Anglo-Saxon name means "deep valley," and may have originated from places with the same name around England.

Hollis

This gender-neutral name from medieval England translates to "near the holly" or "one who lives by the holly tree." Might be fun to plant a holly tree when they're born!

Hugo

This Germanic name means "mind," "intellect," "thought," and "heart." All good things.

Vika Glitter

Isaiah

This masculine Hebrew name means "salvation of the Lord."

Ivy

A simple three-letter name, this name implies fidelity (so v. loyal) and eternal life because of the plant's gorgeous green color.

Daniel Reche

Johanna

This name has origins in Hebrew, Greek, and Latin and means "God is gracious."

Jolie

This sweet French names comes from the word joli, which means “pretty” or “agreeable.”

Juniper

Juniper, or Juni for short, represents "hope" and "warmth."

Juno

Hailing from the Latins, Juno means "queen of the gods" and "youthful," and was the inspiration for naming the month of June. Due date, anyone?

Polina Tankilevitch

Kai

In Hawaiian, Kai means "sea."

Kendrick

From Old English words meaning "bold" or "brave", Kendrick can mean "bold ruler."

Kira

The feminine form of the name Kir, means "mistress" or "ruler" and the masculine form means "a beam of light."

Kit

Kit actually derives from the names Christopher and Katherine and means “bearing Christ,” or "pure."

Dobromir Dobrev

Lorelai

Gilmore Girls fans will love this Germanic name meaning "alluring" and "enchantress" or "sorceress."

Lottie

This English name means "free."

Louise/Louis

The name Louise means "famous warrior" and is the feminine version of the name Louis.

Luna

Meaning "moon" in Spanish, Luna is often associated with mystery, beauty, and femininity.

Tim Bish

Margot

Inspired by our favorite Barbie, this French name means "pearl."

Mateo

This Spanish name, a version of the English Matthew, means "gift of God."

Miller

Miller means someone who grinds grain and operates a mill, but it's also very cute.

Lawrence Crayton

Nash

I also love Dash, but this name of English origin means "by the ash tree."

Nova

Inspired by the astronomical event that causes the sudden appearance of a bright light, this name can mean "new" star.

Joshua Reddekopp

Opal

This gem is a symbol of hope, purity, and truth.

Otis

Music lovers, this masculine name means "wealthy" and can be associated with prosperity.

Otto

Otto is a masculine name of German origin that means "wealth" or "prosperity."

Ozzy

Ozzy is a shortened version of names like Oswald or Osborne, and has a connection to a deity or divine entity.

Kelly Sikkema

Palmer

Palmer is a name meaning palm bearer or pilgrim, inspired by Christian pilgrims who traditionally carried the palms.

Paloma

The Spanish word for dove, Paloma is associated with peace, love, and spirituality.

zelle duda

Raphael

This classic name of Hebrew origin means "God has healed."

Rain

Rain can mean life, growth, and renewal, but it can also represent sadness, loss, and despair. Let's go with the positive association.;)

Remi

Meaning "rower" derived from Latin, this name can also mean "God comforts me."

Riley

"Courageous and "valiant" are words that come to mind for Riley.

Ripley

For The Talented Mr. Ripley (AKA Jude Law) fans, this gender-neutral name means "meadow" or "clearing" and it goes back as far as the 12th century!

Rocky

Cue the Rocky theme song, this name is often associated with strength, resilience, and a steadfast nature.

Walaa Khaleel

Sabrina

The Celtic word "saber" means "water," which may be the origin of this name.

Saoirse (pronounced "SEER-shə" or "SUR-shə")

Made popular in places other than Ireland by Saoirse Ronan, the Irish female name means "freedom" or "liberty".

Santiago

This name combines the Spanish words santo, meaning "saint", and Iago, a variation of the name James.

Scottie

This Scottish name literally means "from Scotland" or "Gaelic speaker".

Sol/Soleil

Sol is the Spanish word for "sun," as is Soleil in French.

Stone

Cool, calm, and collected (like a rock) is the essence of this British name.

Lawrence Crayton

Tate

Happy baby! This English name means "cheerful" and it's gender-neutral.

Teddy

This masculine name of French origin means "wealthy protector" or "God's gift." (I'm seeing a trend here.)

Travis

Our girl's favorite guy is getting baby-name popular with this Old French word meaning "to traverse" or "to cross".

Pixabay

Van

From the Old Dutch word van, this cool baby name means "from the marsh."

Veda

This girl's name of Sanskrit origin means "knowledge" or "wisdom".

Viviana

This Italian name means "alive" or "full of life." Vivi for short!

Juan Encalada

Warren

Warren can mean "to protect" or "guard."

Walton

This masculine name of English origin means "town of walls" or "city of streams or wood."

Wesley

This English name means "western meadow".

Wilder

Wild child? This name means "untamed" or "wild," and also eager or enthusiastic. I can totally picture Wilder climbing everything!

Jonathan Borba

Zaida

This Arabic name, generally for girls, means "fortunate," "prosperous," and "abundant."

Zara

This pretty name means "blooming flower" or "radiance."

Zephyr

This gender-neutral name comes from the Greek word zephyros, which means "gentle breeze".

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

I can't stop thinking about Nosferatu, and I know why. Robert Eggers obviously created a cinematic masterpiece, but it's the gothic horror theme that I appreciate more than anything. Some of my favorite films in this genre are Bram Stoker's Dracula, Sleepy Hollow, Candyman, and 2010's The Wolfman. But it's not movies that made me fall in love with them; it's books.

I wish I would've embraced being a 'weird' Black girl who loved cutesy things as much as she enjoyed reading about monstrous creatures, but there's always now. If you're a proud fan of supernatural, morally gray characters, and psychological warfare, I have more than a few surprises for you. Here are all the gothic horror books you should pick up ASAP!

Scroll to see all the gothic horror books to read after watching Nosferatu!

Amazon

1. HUNGERSTONEby Kat Dunn (February 18, 2025)

Lenore has been married to the successful steel magnate Henry for a decade, but there doesn't seem to be anymore love between them. Still, they put on a united front to travel to the moorlands and that's when it happens — tragedy.

One accident unites the couple with Carmilla, an intriguing woman who's appearance changes depending on the time of day. The longer she's in their lives, the more Lenore feels inexplicably drawn to her. But, the timing of Carmilla's presence coincides with young girls developing insatiable appetites accompanied with a perplexing illness.

Also, Lenore doesn't feel like herself anymore. Rather, she's questioning if she's been honest about who she is all along. She thinks she wants to rekindle the passion in her marriage, but she can't ignore Carmilla's influence on her...

Amazon

2. Immortal Dark by Tigest Girma

Kidan Adane's an heiress who's trying to outrun the fate of living among vampires, but is drawn back in when her sister June vanishes. Kidan decides accepting her place as a student at Uxlay University is the only way to seek revenge against the house vampire she 'knows' took June — Susenyos Sagad.

He's as dangerous as he is enchanting, but Kidan will quickly discover that he's not the most dangerous being she needs to worry about. In fact, she'll confront the morally ambiguous students, faculty, and families that are tied to Uxlay as she searches for answers about June's whereabouts.

However, there'll be no turning back once she discovers the truth.

Amazon

3. The Southern Book Club's Guide to Slaying Vampires by Grady Hendrix

Patricia Campbell is a housewife who was certain she was going to have an amazing life with her husband and kids, but they're too busy for her. The only things that are consistently present are her volatile mother-in-law, her never-ending checklist, and the true crime book club she's a part of.

Life begins to imitate art when Patricia is left scarred after a terrifying attack by a neighbor lands her in the hospital. Shortly after, she meets James Harris and begins to welcome his presence. As soon as she lets her guard down, she can't help but feel alarmed at news of young Black children going missing.

And the night she sees something so terrible no one will believer her is when she Patricia decides to take matters into her own hands.

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4. Salem's Lot by Stephen King

The disappearance of a young boy creates a suspicion in Mears considering nothing like that has ever happened in the small town he lives in. Before long, people he once knew begin to change into darker versions of themselves and he rushes to create a group of survivors/hunters to stop this unnatural takeover. But he'll have to find the source first and it just make take everything he's ever held dear.

Amazon

5. Hemlock Grove by Brian McGreevy

When a young girl is discovered brutally murdered in the town of Hemlock Grove, PA, whispers about what's truly going on begin to stir since she was found near what's left of the Godfrey Steel mill. There's also rumors that someone could've escaped from the biotech building that the Godfreys are also in charge of.

On the other side of suspicions about them lie accusations that a young Gypsy named Peter Rumancek is responsible. After all, he's been telling people he's a werewolf. It doesn't come as a shock when he and Roman Godfrey become best friends as they try to uncover what happened.

But fate has something different planned for them and it'll change who they thought they were.

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6. Vampires of El Norteby Isabel Canãs

Life for Nena and Néstor is full of grief in 1840s Mexico. With threats of Mexican land being taken over by settlers, Nena's seen it all. Plus, she's been attacked by an evil spirit before.

At some point, she and Néstor are separated without any contact. The latter believes his love has been lost and has been trying to drown himself in vices to forget what he thinks could've happened to her.

So when they finally see each other a few years later, their meeting is anything but pleasant. One's running from possibly marrying someone she doesn't love while the other is trying to reconcile his habits.

But nothing is more troubling than the fact the evil spirit is still out there and is looking to wreak more havoc on anyone who's unfortunate to cross its path.

Amazon

7. Thirst by Marina Yuszczuk

Thirst breaks from tradition by attempting to humanize a female vampire and her desire to live despite her nature. Escaping from Europe, she takes up residence in Buenos Aires and assimilates into its culture.

Years later, another young woman finds herself coming to terms with what motherhood means to her now that she's watching her own mother's life slip away. When she and the female vampire from long ago connect, something sparks between them and their lives take on a new meaning.

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8. Interview with the Vampire by Anne Rice

Louis has been alive for a long time and is ready to tell his story to a young, eager journalist. He begins with the early telling of his former life when he was still a 'good' man in Louisiana who happened to cross paths with the manipulative Lestat. Unable to grapple with becoming a 'monster,' he remembers trying to survive off animals but never could satisfy his thirst.
Louis remembers giving in to vampirism and even the sweet Claudia who he gingerly took under his wing instead of harming her. However, the familial love they have for each other is cut short when they commit an unspeakable crime against Lestat and are forced to flee the opulent space they called home.

And lastly, Louis remembers what it was like to love Armand but feel unable to cope with knowing he did nothing to stop his band of vampires from seeking their own private justice against those he loved.

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9. House of Hunger by Alexis Henderson

All Marion Shaw's ever known is what it feels like to be poor. Though she's dreamt of finding somewhere else to start over, she lacks the motivation to do so until she discovers an opening for a bloodmaid.

She's not sure what it means but she ventures to the House of Hunger anyway. There she becomes indoctrined in a new way of life that's led by the charming and horrifying Countess Lisavet. Somehow, Marion's caught her eye and they develop a consensual mistress-servant relationship.

But there's much more to the House of Hunger than Marion knew about and she'll have to use all of her wits to pay attention or she'll never be able to leave.

Amazon

10. This Cursed House by Del Sandeen

Jemma Baker decides to leave Chicago to pursue a job working for the Duchon family in New Orleans. It feels like an answered pray until she realizes how colorist they are.

Despite being Black, the Duchons have no problem feeling like they're superior because of their wealth and lighter skin. Jemma doesn't understand why they act the way they do until she realizes they're a cursed family who's relying onher to free them.

Soon, Jemma will have to use her gift to unlock secrets about the Duchons but she'll discover something dark that seeks to threaten her life if she's not careful.

Amazon

11. Her Little Flowers by Shannon Morgan

55-year-old Francine Thwaite has never left her childhood home in England's Lake Manor, but she doesn't mind. She fills her days interacting with the ghosts in the manor, especially her 'friend' Bree. However, Francine's sister Madeleine returns home and disrupts the quiet reality Francine had with a reimagining of what really happened there.

Suddenly, Francine's forced to realize the Thwaites weren't always so kind and have a sinister past that she may not be able to escape.

Amazon

12. Witchcraft for Wayward Girls by Grady Hendrix

In the 1970s, young women who dare to have sex before marriage and get pregnant are sent to Wellwood House in St. Augustine, Florida. It's a way for families to hide their shame and pretend like 'sinful' stains no longer exist.

When young Fern is sent there to contend with Miss Wellwood, she realizes there are other girls who's situations mirror her own. While their backgrounds differ, their pregnant bellies and controlled reality do not.

The girls are given a chance to rewrite the rules when Fern receives an occult book that introduces them to witchcraft. As they being casting spells and realizing how powerful they are, a growing realization that there's a price to learn for increased knowledge dawns on them.

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13. The Book of Witchingby C.J. Cooke

Clem's worst fears come true when she rushes to her daughter Erin's hospital bedside after a hiking trip went wrong. What's even scarier is that Erin refuses to believe that's her name and has no recollection of Clem being her mother.

Resolved to get to the bottom of things, Clem ventures to the Orkneys where her daughter was before the accident took place. She encounters tales of someone being tied to a murder and witchcraft long before she or Erin were born.

The deeper she digs, the more Clem questions what's capable of being true in a world that doesn't always believe in the occult.

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14. A Haunting on the Hillby Elizabeth Hand

Playwright Holly Sherwin hasn't seen much success until she's granted the chance to bring Witching Night to the big stage. To gain inspiration, she takes a mini vacation where she discovers Hill House. It's a sprawling mansion who's presence is felt even from it's partially hidden location.
Holly and her girlfriend Nisa decide to live there a month along with those who will make Witching Night a success. As everyone grapples with their own inner terrors, Hill House comes to life.

Amazon

15. The Only One Left by Riley Sager

In 1929, Lenora Hope's family were found murdered and everyone was sure she did it. Yet, she goes free when there's not enough evidence to convict her. As such, she's remained tucked away behind the walls of Hope's End.

When health aide Kit McDeere is assigned to assist Lenora in 1983, she's not sure what to expect since the previous nurse abruptly left. What Kit finds is an older mute woman who's only form of communication involves a typewriter.

Soon, Lenora surprises Kit by telling her she's ready to recount what happened the night her family was murdered. Insisting she wasn't responsible for her family's death, Kit helps Lenora document what happened.

The more Kit writes, the more she realizes Lenora may not be a victim after all.

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16. Our Share of the Night by Mariana Enriquez

Gaspar and his father are still grieving the death of both mother and wife when they decide to journey to the home tied to her ancestry. Their mission is to understand the origins of the Order which is the family she left behind.

They quickly realize this cult is menacing and tied to Gaspar's fate. Choosing to run from them, Gaspar and his father try their hardest to avoid something terrible coming to past.

Alternating between the present and the future, readers will come to understand how the Order was created and if Gaspar is destined to join them.

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17. Rouge by Mona Awad

Belle's known for prioritizing her skin's health and spends time creating skincare content. However, she's forced to deal with her mother Noelle's death and travels to Southern California to confront what happened to her.

When Belle sees a woman wearing red at her mother's funeral, she's confused about who she is. Her confusion deepens when the woman alludes to what may have happened to her mother and somehow leads Belle to La Maison de Méduse, a cult-like spa Noelle frequented.

Once there, Belle realizes there's a reason she and her mom shared the same obsession with looking at themselves in the mirror because there's more behind the glass than she bargained for.

Amazon

18. Plain Bad Heroines by Emily M. Danforth

While at the Brookhants School for Girls in 1902, Flo and Clara develop an obsessive bond with each other as well as Mary MacLane. The latter's written a moving bestseller that details her life and leads the young girls to create the Plain Bad Heroine Society.

After meeting at an apple orchard, Flo and Clara are discovered murdered by yellow jackets while holding copies of Mary MacLane's work. Soon, the Brookhants School for Girls shuts down after more people die while there.

Years later, writer Merritt Emmons has written a book about the history of Brookhants that's set to be adapted into a horror movie. With lesbian actress Harper Harper set to play Flo and Audrey Wells starring as Clara, production gets the green light to arrive at the school.

However, it's hard to tell where the past ends and the present begins when Merritt, Harper, and Clara arrive. What is clear is that history has a way of repeating itself.

Are you in need of more shocking twists and turns? Check out the thriller books we've already pre-ordered!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

When I was pregnant, I was terrified of labor. I heard only the horror stories, but my experience, like many others I later learned, went surprisingly smooth. It was definitely not what I imagined from the movie labor scenes I witnessed, with the OTT screaming and sweating, especially since I chose to get an epidural.

I was soon reading Amy Poehler's Yes, Please! while lying on the delivery table. (Which was actually the perfect book because she talks about her labor fears too). I even took a nap! I felt great. It wasn’t until the last two hours that I had to “push” — which was no picnic, but also you get through it with lots of nursing cheers and partner support — and the immediate feeling after when you finally meet your babe is BLISS.

This is all to say: maybe keep the scary pregnancy stories private if you have them. I always make a point of sharing my positive story with newly expecting moms in hopes that they will worry less when all you can do is wait. I think a good rule of thumb is to be supportive, positive and excited for her/them. Here are 15 things you maybe shouldn’t tell a woman with a baby bump.

Toa Heftiba

1. "Wow, you’re huge!" or "Are you sure it’s not twins?"

Comments about size or weight, whether the person is “too big” or “too small,” can be hurtful. Every pregnancy looks different so put any thoughts about physical attributes to bed.

Yan Krukau

2. "Should you be eating/drinking that?"

Policing someone’s food or drink choices is invasive and unnecessary. Trust that they’re capable of making informed decisions, with their OB/GYN's support, about themselves and their baby.

Vince Fleming

3. "Was it planned?" or "How long did it take?"

Questions about conception are deeply personal and inappropriate unless they choose to share this info with you.

Leah Newhouse

4. "What are you going to name the baby?"

Many couples want to keep the name private until the baby is born and I'll explain why. Because when you do share, people have their own associations with the name and are not afraid to share what they think, even with just a look on their face. We decided to stop telling people we were naming our baby Matilda because we got negative comments. Now all people say when they meet her is how much they love the name. It's all about the person, not the name!

Jessica Rockowitz

5. "Are you returning to work?"

This is a decision a woman can make with her partner and family without the need to share or decide during the pregnancy stage. I decided three months in, after returning to work, that I couldn't manage a new baby and a demanding job and thought my only option was to leave. Turns out, my boss was very accommodating and allowed me to work from home my first year as a new mom. This is a private decision but also so much changes once the baby arrives.

cottonbro studios

6. "Are you hoping for a boy/girl?"

Talking about gender can put unnecessary pressure on the idea of gender preference when the health of the baby is what truly matters.

Pavel Danilyuk

7. "You look tired."

Pregnancy is exhausting, especially during that first trimester. Pointing it out doesn’t help and might make expecting moms feel self-conscious. "Glowing" and "beautiful" are better words for mama-to-be to hear!

Shutterstock

8. "You’ll sleep when the baby sleeps."

Actually, you won't because mom has so many other things to take care of, including herself, when the baby is sleeping. Instead, offer to help watch the baby so she can get some sleep or offer to help run errands. This is so much better than advice that is just not practical!

Jonathan Borba

9. "You're going to have your hands full!"

Pregnancy and parenthood come with plenty of changes, but fear-mongering or negativity isn’t helpful. Everyone’s experience is unique, and making blanket statements like this one is just not useful to new moms.

PNW Production

10. "Enjoy your freedom while it lasts."

Parenthood may change things, but it’s not helpful to imply life ends once the baby arrives. The first year and beyond are so rewarding and can even bring you and your partner even closer. Yes, it's challenging in terms of having free time, but you find so many moments of joy too that you don't really want to be away from your baby!

Febe Vanermen

11. "Can I touch your belly?" (or worse, touching without asking)

Always ask for permission, and don’t take offense if they say no. Personal space and body autonomy is still important.

Ivan Samkov

12. Do you plan to breastfeed?

This is such a personal choice and the question itself comes off as judgmental. Also, some women who plan to breastfeed can't so this is a question better left unasked.

Jeferson Santu

13. "How much weight have you gained?"

Weight-related comments are intrusive and can be offensive. See question one!

Amina Filkins

14. "You’re going to bounce back, right?"

Recovery is personal, and this type of comment pressures new moms to meet unrealistic expectations.

Germs

15. "Is the baby here yet?"

I was a few days late and had several people check in maybe a little too often. I wanted to say, 'You'll know when I know!" Late in pregnancy, this can be frustrating and annoying. We're already counting the days and don’t need reminders!

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Sweet Magnolias season 4 is almost here — and based on the new trailer, we're in for a ton of surprises...and not just because Maddie has declared this to be a "new chapter." Despite the tragedy and storm that are coming in the TV show this season, Helen, Maddie, and Dana Sue (JoAnna Garcia Swisher, Heather Headley, and Brooke Elliott) are definitely going to get through it together.

Keep reading for a breakdown of that new Sweet Magnolias season 4 trailer before new episodes drop February 6, 2025.

JoAnna Garcia Swisher, Heather Headley, and Brooke Elliott weather a variety of storms in 'Sweet Magnolias' season 4.

There's always a lot that happens between Halloween and Christmas Day, but Sweet Magnolias season 4 is really packing on the drama. I'm talking "a tragedy, a town crisis and a fierce storm," according to the official trailer.

Throughout the new Sweet Magnolias season 4 trailer, we get a glimpse of that storm, protests in town, and what appears to be a funeral. Dana Sue hugs an emotional Annie, Maddie finally voices her fear of losing someone she loves, and Helen has to deal with just how much the town is struggling. TLDR; Serenity is dealing with a lot of unrest in a lot of different forms. But despite the difficulty the message of the show remains clear.

"We're best friends," Heather Headley's Helen reminds Maddie. "Best friends carry each other, and each other's burdens." And that's really what the show is all about.

Showrunner Sheryl J. Anderson told TUDUM that season 4 will look at "the twists and turns of romance, the complexity of friendship, the surprises that pop up in life and how all these things make us more grateful for the people who love us, the people who fight for — and with — us, and the people who can make us laugh, whatever we’re going through.”

And if you ask me, most importantly, Sweet Magnolias proves that friendship has the power to change our lives. “True friendship is a living thing: It has to change and grow as we do," she continues. "And that’s not always easy. But that’s what makes it beautiful.”

Are you excited for Sweet Magnolias season 4? Let us know what you want to see on Facebook and read up on the 14 New TV Shows To Watch In February.

As much as I love Valentine's Day, Galentine's Day is actually my favorite February holiday! There's nothing I adore more than getting together with my girlfriends and celebrating each other with drinks and games — and gifts — galore. This year, the bestie basket is the best (and easiest) way to show your girls how much you care about them! These adorable gifts are super easy to make — you just have to pick a cute basket, fill it with your BFF's favorite things, and voila! You've got a perfect, thoughtful, last-minute gift!

Don't know what you need to get started? I've got you covered!

Here's everything you need to craft the perfect, last-minute bestie basket for Galentine's Day!

Target

Coiled Rope Basket

Obviously the first piece you need for your bestie basket is an actual basket. This pink rope basket from Target is cute, big enough to hold plenty of goodies, and is only $6!

Target

Felt Heart Valentine's Day Basket Red

But if you're looking for something a little more cutesy — and a little smaller — this heart basket will do the trick, too! Plus, the handle makes your gift way easier to transport to your BFF.

Target

Valentine's Day 8ct Pegged Tissue Red Heart on Cream

You can totally just put your gifts right into the basket, but a little tissue paper adds an extra zhuzh to your gift as well! And look at how pretty this heart paper is!

Target

16 fl oz Stoneware You are Loved Mug Pink/Red Striped

Whether your bestie is a coffee addict á la Lorelai Gilmore, loves a hot cuppa tea, or can't resist a decadent hot chocolate, a cute mug is a must-have in your basket. I love, love, love the pink and red stripes on this one!

Target

14 fl oz Figural Heart Tumbler with Straw

However, if your BFF is more of an iced-coffee kinda gal, she may be more into this sweet little heart-shaped tumbler!

Target

Stanley 4pk 40oz Quencher Tumbler Straws

It's no secret the gals are into Stanley cups — so why not grab some pink and red straws to make everyone's favorite hand accessory even cuter?

Target

Paucax Water Bottle Pouch for Stanley 18-40oz

This little pink pouch is another perfect addition to your emotional support water bottle, too! You can toss your phone, credit cards, lip balm, or whatever else you need on your hot girl errands in here!

Target

Women's Concentric Hearts Valentine's Day Cozy Crew Socks

Cozy socks are a definitely must in your bestie basket! These are super on-theme — and super soft!

Target

LOOPS Double Take Glow Mask

I seriously love LOOPS masks! Grab this for your girlfriends, and maybe even throw 'em on while you grab some wine and gab during your Galentine's Day celebration!

Target

Tree Hut Moroccan Rose Shea Sugar Body Scrub

Winter is doing a number on everyone's skin right now, so a body scrub is a nice little luxury to gift your girlfriends right now. Revive your skin — and smell good doing it!

Target

essie Salon-Quality Vegan Nail Polish

A little nail care is a total hallmark of a good girls night! Grab this sweet shade of red for the perfect at-home mani for you bestie!

Target

Salon Clip Hair Bow Set 2pc

Are people over bows? IDK, but I'm sure not. These are coquette and cute and so going in your bestie baskets this year!

Target

Nerds Valentine's Gummy Clusters

Bestie baskets absolutely need candy — it's a non-negotiable. Nerds gummy clusters are super viral right now, and for good reason! They're chewy, crunchy, and totally delicious.

Target

Dove Valentine's Dark Chocolate Hearts

If your friends aren't into gummy candy, classic Dove dark chocolate hearts are a solid way to go as well!

Target

Lindt Lindor Milk Chocolate Candy Truffles

And if dark chocolate is too bitter, then these sweet little milk chocolate truffles are also amazing!

Looking for more fun seasonal recs? Be sure to sign up for our weekly newsletter so you never miss a thing!

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