When my girlfriends asked about a baby shower for this fourth pregnancy I knew I wanted something really different and special. I wanted something laid back yet full of intention. I wanted guests to celebrate themselves as much as this belly of mine. I wanted a day to bask together in the magic of Mama Kaua’i and the sisterhood we share.
Aside from communicating these key priorities, I was completely hands off and cannot take any credit for the event details I share below. I also cannot express enough gratitude for the women who made this day happen because it turned out to be a truly beautiful experience beyond my wildest dreams.
The Venue
Being outside was a necessity and it wasn’t difficult to settle on my favorite beach here on Kaua’i–Polihale State Park. The wide open space was perfect for gathering and soaking up the magic around us.
The Setup
We needed a large shade structure to protect us from the elements and the ladies did a fabulous job of dressing it up with tropical flowers, colorful fabric garlands, and Mexican blankets. I loved that they used what was easily available on island. The seating area was inviting and opened up to epic views of the crashing waves.
The Food & Drinks
The potluck spread was really quite impressive. From homemade bread and pastries, to delicious dips and salads, the women in my life showed up in full force with nourishing treats to share. Kasey (the genius behind The Surf Shack) even made a morning run to Holey Grail Donuts! The hosts asked everyone to bring a “healthy dish to share” and the guests did not disappoint.
One of my favorite dishes, brought by my dear friend Julia, was a plate of “Hot Honey Local Sweet Potatoes” roughly based on this Bon Appétit recipe. She says she never makes them the same way but I was smitten with her use of Okinawan sweet potatoes and green onions.
Copious amounts of bubbly was definitely a top priority of mine. The dream team set up a lovely mimosa station complete with a citrus press and a crate of local produce. I think I need this as a permanent feature in my kitchen at home…
Requests for the Guests
- “Please wear all white clothing.”
- “This is a day to celebrate you too, please leave the keiki at home.”
- “Please bring 1-2 loose beads that remind you of Priscilla to string on her birthing necklace.”
- “Rather than gifts, please consider signing up on the Soulé’s meal train. A link will be sent out when baby arrives.”
Rituals
“No games please” was my final request. I hoped to give these friends an excuse to eat, drink, and relax with each other. To just be fully present in this extraordinary moment together. I dreamed of authentic conversations and frolicking down the beach. If there was to be any programming at all, I wished for it to be short, sweet, and purposeful.
We began with a brief seated meditation led by one of the guests who also happens to be a fabulous yoga teacher. She helped us ground ourselves in the present, in our bodies, and within each other’s company. She helped us open our hearts to this babe in my belly and to the power within ourselves.
Then came the time for each guest to add their bead(s) to my birthing necklace. A chord was passed around the circle and beads were strung along with silent intentions. Can you spot the handmade centerpiece from my talented friend Mallory? And oh my were all the beads spectacular, both individually and as the rainbow of prayers they formed together. I’ll be wearing this necklace and/or keeping it close during labor to soak in everyone’s love and support.
Next, a basket of simple matching bracelets made its way around the circle as neighbors tied them onto each other’s wrists. These will serve as a visual reminder of this beautiful day and how we are all connected in spirit. Upon seeing or touching the bracelet, folks can send off extra prayers to us because they will remain tied on until baby arrives.
Finally, each guest departed with a blessing candle to be lit at the start of my labor accompanied by a prayer, positive thought, or mantra. The candles will serve as another symbol of our connection and community of support. As I labor to bring baby Earthside, I know that I’ll be surrounded with love and light.
