Meghan Markle will have to miss out on a classic American tradition if she has a baby

Baby showers are an American tradition that have found their way over here in a big way in recent years.

While christenings have always been celebrated on this side of the pond, the idea of having a party before baby even comes along is pretty new to those of us outside the states. It is a lovely idea; a chance to get excited about the new arrival and spoil the mum-to-be - but it's something that Meghan Markle will miss if she becomes pregnant. The Duchess of Sussex is no doubt putting a fresh spin on being a royal. Her and Harry's wedding in May was a clear indication that she wants to incorporate elements of her American upbringing into her royal life. Her friends will be used to baby showers - her pal Serena Williams held a cute 1950s-themed party before welcoming her daughter Alexis last year - but Meghan probably won't have one because of who she's married to. Guests at an American baby shower are usually expected to bring gifts for the baby or to help out the new parents. Given how comfortable the royal family is it would be seen as vulgar to hold a bash where presents play such an important role, according to one royal expert. As they're "very wealthy, a lavish baby shower would be seen as highly inappropriate," royal expert Victoria Arbiter told The Sun. "There's nothing they can't go out and buy themselves." This idea was reflected in Meghan and Harry's wedding too. The couple asked that instead of giving gifts, guests make a donation to one of the Prince's charities.