Announcing Your Pregnancy

By Heather K. Scott, Tribune Content Solutions

You and your partner are ready to share the good news — you’re going to have a baby! Looking for fun, creative or poignant ways to let family and friends know you’re growing your family? We have ideas and inspiration to help you get started.

Sharing the big news that you’re expecting a baby is one of the most joyous messages you’ll ever present to family and friends. If you’re looking for fun ways to announce your new parents-to-be status, check out the following ideas.

Back in the day.

“The most traditional ways to announce pregnancy are at family gatherings or a telephone call to close family and friends,” says Alicia Smith, an event planner for Touched by Innocence in East Orange, New Jersey.

“For years, parents-to-be would get the ultrasound photo and frame it and present it to the grandparents as a gift and capture their expression on camera,” says Colleen Mook, founder of Baby Be Hip (babybehip.com).

Photo shoot news.

As the trend for elaborate announcements has escalated, couples are having themed photo shoots that hint at pregnancy or baby being on the way. Families then distribute these photos via snail mail or email, or post on social media. “For example a family photo and current child holding sign referring to becoming an older sibling,” suggests Smith.

Enlist a messenger.

“We have also had our kids help in the fun,” shares Mook. “I've had my older daughter wear a ‘big sister’ T-shirt to a family party and waited to see who picks up on it.” Have an older sibling — or even a pet — don a “big brother” or “big sister” shirt, hat, or sign to help you share the news.

Gender reveal.

Many parents like to share the news of a pregnancy and announce the gender of their baby at the same time. You can incorporate pink or blue balloons, cupcakes, booties, bibs, rattles, pacifiers and more in your reveal.

Get social.

“Social media is the easiest way to get the message to all loved ones, whether they are near or far,” says Smith. A quick video of the baby bump; photo of the baby's ultrasound; or a portrait of you and your partner with a sign, baby shoes or other allusion to baby-to-be are all great ways to post your good news.