Etiquette for a Single Man at a Baby Birth: A Guide

Question
Hi,
My best female friend's daughter is expecting next month...and as a single man, never married, no children...I now have to opportunity to be in attendance at the birth of her child. However, it's very unlikely that I will be in the birthing room...witnessing the event.  It is very likely that I will be the only male in attendance.  

What is the protocol for someone like me...should I bring flowers, etc???  

I am very very close to the family and the pregnant young lady and I want to do my best.

Thanks!

Ron

P.S. I know I am probably in the wrong section...maybe you can point me in a right one!

Answer
Definitely bring flowers.  You could also bring a gift for the baby, something small like a rattle or booties or something like that.  You could take lots and lots of pictures for her, so that she'll have those to remember the day by.  Even better than what to do at the birth itself, though, is what to do in the next week or two.  She'll need lots of help while she recovers and gets used to her new baby, so you can offer to bring food, clean house, do yardwork for the dad, whatever can be done so that the new mom and dad can both focus on the baby.  Don't wait to be asked; ask what you can do, or if you see something to do jump right in.

If you want more advice, you could check out a manners or etiquette expert.  I'm certainly not that; I tend to think more like a guy than a girl anyway!  Good luck, and congratulations to your friend and her daughter!