Mum-to-be Britney hosts 'African baby shower'

With just weeks to go before giving birth, Britney Spears hosted an emotional Moroccan-themed baby shower.

Guests were welcomed into a bamboo tent set up in front of her Malibu home, where they walked barefoot through thousands of rose petals.

“I wanted it to be really intimate with just my closest girlfriends and family members,” she said.

“The night was everything I envisioned.”

Sitting amongst hundreds of candles, Britney presided over a North African feast which included Moroccan brisket and salad Tangiers.

The meal was topped with a cake in the shape of a Moroccan pot with a baby peeking out.

Presents included a white wrought-iron bassinet from her mum, Lynne, a car seat, a stroller, an infant bathtub and lots of stuffed animals.

Britney, 23, and husband, Kevin Federline have not revealed the baby’s gender but are rumoured to be having a boy.

“Everyone really outdid themselves,” the singer told People magazine. “Even the packaging on some of the gifts was heartfelt.

“I truly couldn’t have been happier to share this day with people who are so close to my heart.”

While everyone wrote personal messages in a book, Britney’s mother and mother-in-law made emotional toasts.

“Lynne Spears talked about when she was pregnant with Britney and how she felt such emotion, and Kevin’s mum, Julie, was saying that they’re so happy Britney’s a part of their family,” said Alyson Fox, whose company planned the event.

“Everyone’s eyes were just welling up with tears.”

Ms Fox said Britney could not wait to give birth. “Her hand is always on her belly. She’s ready to take on motherhood,” she revealed.

Kevin, 27, who has two young children with former girlfriend Shar Jackson, made himself scarce during the event.