Father Fest Book Registry
Introducing Bookshelf Builder's
80% of brain development occurs in the first 3 years of life. Reading with a child deepens relationships and boosts the child's lifelong ability to learn.
Having a rich, diverse and exciting library from the start forms a strong foundation for learning, compassion and character.
Did you know ...
How the Registry Works
1. Sign Up
Start by filling out our signup up form.
We'll ask if there are any specific interests the parents have that we can incorporate into the book list.
Examples:
French language, Indian culture, camping, architecture, diversity, travel, gardening.
2. Book List
We'll generate about 50-70 book recommendations for you to review.
This replaces the need to create your own wishlist! We then work with you over email until the registry perfect for you.
Guests are also encouraged to go off-list and pick their own special books.
3. Share
Share the registry link with your guests.
Writers block? View our sample invitations, which also shows how you can use Bookshelf Builder alongside a traditional registry.
To avoid duplicates, guests claim their selections on Bookshelf Builder and then purchase books from anywhere (either online or at a local bookstore).
A Treasured Baby Shower
At the event
We encourage guests write something special in the book. This is best done in advance, but can also be done at the event.
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An initial library of 25-50 books is a perfect starter library. Our recommendations cover a broad range of formats, authors, styles and topics so parents can build knowledge and insight into how they want to grow their library going forward.
Years later
The initial library will hold a special place in a parent's heart, and those books tend to get read for years (even after a child has out-grown them).
The notes inside the book form a deep connection to the book. Books that have a connection to the grownup make a fantastic reading experience for the baby!
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Bonding
Reading encourages holding baby close so baby can smell and hear Dad
Skin-to-Skin Contact
Cuddling while reading gives a newborn a sense of security and warmth
Empowering
Books that reflect the father's interests and values empower the father now and for years to come
Guided Script
New (and tired) parents can use books when they are unsure of what else to do
Meaningful
Gifted books with a note from the gifter hold a special place in caregiver's hearts
Sustainable
Books have enduring utility, minimal packaging and can be reused or recycled
Soothing Voices
Fathers can read, sing or murmur books to their babies
Shared Passions
Fathers can use books to share their passions and foster a special bond that is unique to them
A Rich Library is the Best Gift You Can Give a Child ... and a Father
Want to see it in action?
View a sample registry.
What is a Father Fest?
A Father Fest is a baby shower for a dad-to-be. These events are often more casual than traditional baby showers, but it all depends on the dad's preferences. A Father Fest can be co-ed or just the guys. They are often thrown by the father-to-be's family, friends, co-workers or hobby-mates.
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Other Names
Dadchelor Party, Man Shower, Baby Stag, or Daddy Diaper Party
We love the phrase Father Fest because it celebrates the dad as his own person embarking on his own life-changing journey (and dads do more than diaper changes!).
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History
Father Fests have been around for a decade, but have picked up in popularity in the last few years. With improving gender equality, men have started to hold Father Fests as their own form of enjoyment and celebration.
What to Gift
Using a book registry as a focal point for the Father Fest gives it gravity and meaning. Building baby's bookshelf is a wonderful way for a father to get involved during pregnancy and beyond. And books are fun and welcoming for all guests, regardless of their interests or backgrounds.
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A father's friends and family are uniquely positioned to choose books that reflect the father's personality, interests, vibe and culture.