On Wednesday, September 2, 41’s First Mates and nonprofit Operation Shower came together to bring an afternoon of love, laughter and baby-shower fun to 40 military moms-to-be in Virginia Beach. The “Anchored in Love” group baby shower honored expectant moms whose spouses were deployed aboard the USS George H.W. Bush (CVN-77). Held at Delta Hotels Virginia Beach Waterfront Suites, the celebration featured a catered lunch, traditional shower games and activities, prizes, gift giveaways and special guest speakers.
A highlight of the afternoon was the presentation of Operation Shower’s signature Shower-In-A-Box to each mom. Beautifully curated with necessities and thoughtful gifts for both mothers and babies, the boxes were made possible through generous donations from 41’s First Mates, Diaper Genie, Delta Children, Pierced, Angelcare, Dr. Brown’s, Chicco, and Kindred Bravely/Storq. More than just baby gifts, the boxes served as a heartfelt reminder to these moms that a community of supporters was cheering them on.
The USS George H.W. Bush is the 10th and final Nimitz-class supercarrier in the United States Navy, named for the 41st President and former Director of Central Intelligence George H.W. Bush, who served as a naval aviator during World War II. “In the military, families serve too,” said 41’s First Mates Co-Founder Judi Marchand. The “Anchored in Love” shower was a beautiful way to recognize and celebrate the strength, sacrifice and dedication of these amazing military families—and to remind them that, even during deployment, they never had to sail alone.
Thank you to the following who helped to make this day extra special:
Photography by @glennb_photo
Graphics by @paperandcake
Emcee: Mary Kathryn Wood “Woo Woo”
Balloons by @aleesias_balloons
Venue: @deltahotelsvirginiabeachsuites
DJ: @coastalvibesva Cupcakes by @incredibleediblesbakery
Chocolate Treats by @theprincessbaker
