The daily grind might be paused but life goes on.

And new parents and parents-to-be are finding innovative ways to celebrate their new arrivals while adhering to strict rules on Covid-19 social distancing.

The lockdown has seen a boom in virtual baby showers happening via Zoom across the country, with flower deliveries flourishing too as friends and family seek out no-contact ways to show they care.

At The Wild Floral Emporium, a new addition to the wide range of services offered by florist Jill O’Keeffe, has been delighting new mums with surprise blooms, carefully left on the doorstep.

The mixed flower and foliage bouquets start at a very reasonable €40 (check out the selection here) and they can be delivered all over Cork.

Meanwhile, Joanne O’Brien, who owns online children’s boutique Petit Avenue, says she’s seen a 40 per cent uplift in the gifting side of her business since the lockdown began in March as people go online to shop for newborns and children’s birthdays.

“It has become popular for groups of friends to gift parents-to-be with vouchers which they can put towards the purchase of nursery furniture and they can even choose a special going home outfit for the newborn,” Joanne told us.

“Just last week we managed to organise for a rocking horse to be delivered to a couple, just as their virtual baby shower was kicking off. Apparently it was a great surprise for them and helped to make it really special,” Joanne said.

Drive-by viewings, where family members gather outside a living room window to peer at the new baby inside, are also a popular choice until proper hugs and cuddles are allowed again.