Shanann Watts, 34, was meticulously planning a gender reveal party for her unborn child, spending hundreds of dollars on preparations. However, the celebration was canceled just 11 days before the event, amid growing marital discord. Tragically, Shanann was murdered by her husband, Chris Watts, five days after the cancellation.

The $864.71 Gender Reveal Party That Never Was

Shanann Watts had arranged an elaborate gender reveal party for around 50 people at her home in Frederick, Colorado. Financial records show she spent $482.94 on a cake and party food from Costco, $124.37 on a cookie arrangement, $89 on flowers, and $168.40 on party supplies, totaling $864.71. The party was scheduled for August 19, 2018, but was canceled on August 8.

Marital Strife and the Name Nico

According to the Daily Mail, Shanann canceled the party after her husband, Chris Watts, admitted he did not want a third child. The couple had settled on the name Nico for their unborn child, a name that has drawn attention due to its similarity to the name of Watts' mistress, Nichol Kessinger. Shanann's family has clarified that the name was a nod to her Italian heritage .

Shanann's Suspicions and the Divorce Request

Shanann's suspicions about her husband's infidelity led her to confide in a friend, Nicki Atkinson, who was the only person who knew the baby's gender. Shanann had planned to reveal the gender by popping a balloon filled with blue confetti, indicating she was carrying a boy.. After canceling the party, Shanann asked Chris Watts for a divorce on August 7, 2018.

Tragic Texts and the Aftermath

The Daily Mail has obtained texts from Shanann to a friend, revealing her anguish over her marriage in the days leading up to her murder. shanann was 15 weeks pregnant when she was strangled to death by her husband. Chris Watts also suffocated their two daugters, Bella, four,and Celeste, three.