Over time, baby shower etiquette has become more and more relaxed. The most important thing to remember is to have fun and make sure the mom-to-be is comfortable!
Baby showers have long been a cherished tradition for expectant parents, serving as a celebration of new life and a way to gather friends and family.
However, like many aspects of our lives, shower etiquette has changed over the years. In this blog post, we’ll explore current etiquette advice for both hosts and guests.
Whether you’re planning a baby shower or attending one, these guidelines will help ensure a memorable and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
1) Who Should Host a Baby Shower?
The role of Baby Shower Hostess usually goes to a close friend or family member.
ideas: pair up with a girlfriend or two and host a shower together. It removes all responsibility (both time and financial) from one person.
2) What’s My First Step?
Meet with the mom-to-be (and/or dad-to-be) to find out:
- A good date and time
- Where they are registered (helpful to include in invitations)
- Any color scheme or theme of the nursery (this can be included in the invitation and also good information to know for decorating for the shower)
- The invitation list with addresses or emails or cell numbers – depending on whether you are sending, emailing or texting the invitations
- Any particular cultural or religious tradition
Meeting the parents often gets the juices flowing for great baby shower ideas!
Surprise shower? Get an invite list from a family member or maybe you already know who to invite!
3a) When Should a Baby Shower Be Held?
Ideally, baby showers are held 2-3 months before the baby is born. In this way the mother can still wander quite easily. But anytime is fine. It’s up to you and the mother-to-be.
Weekends are an ideal time to hold baby showers. Guests are usually ready to relax and unwind. Have a late-morning brunch, and an afternoon lunch, or an evening snack!
-Timing and Invitation
Send invitations early: Generally, baby shower invitations should be sent at least four to six weeks before the event. This allows guests enough time to RSVP and make the necessary arrangements.
3b) When is it okay to shower again if you already had one for a previous child?
This is a tricky one. People have different views about this situation. In general, it’s okay to re-shower if your kids are 4 or more years apart (the logic is, styles have changed, things like swings and strollers may have gotten old or broken, or the parents. get rid of the baby’s old stuff- especially if it’s a “surprise pregnancy!)
It is also acceptable to have a 2nd shower if your child is a different gender from your previous child.
But in my opinion, all babies are unique and special and deserve to be celebrated! If you want to have another baby shower – go for it! If you don’t need all the basics like a crib, stroller etc., you can have diapers, wipes, and shower clothes.
4) Where Should You Take a Shower?
Anywhere!
- House of the hostess
- Home of a friend or relative
- Backyard
- Park
- Restaurant
- Office (if it’s a work shower)
- church
- Couple
- Day Spa!
5. Games and Activities
– Keep it fun and engaging: Plan games and activities that involve all guests and are enjoyable for everyone. Avoid games that may embarrass or isolate individuals.
6. Thanks Tala
– Express gratitude: The new mother and or father-to-be should send thank-you notes that show appreciation for the guests’ gifts and presence. Usually within a month or 2.
Guest Etiquette
1. RSVP now
– Respond to invitations: As a guest, it is important to RSVP before the requested date. It helps the host make the necessary preparations (food, drinks, prizes, favors.)
2. Gifts
When choosing gifts, consider using a baby registry. This ensures that you are providing something that parents really need or want. Gift cards are also a popular gift choice.
3. Time of Arrival
– Be punctual: Being on time is a sign of respect. Late arrivals can disrupt the flow of the event and make the host’s job more difficult.
4. Social Media
– Be careful about sharing: Always ask for permission before posting event photos on social media, as not everyone may be comfortable with their photos being shared online.
5. Baby Shower Etiquette for Boys
– Co-ed showers: In modern times, co-ed baby showers are becoming more common. If you are invited to one, feel free to attend as a male guest and participate in the celebration.
Baby showers are an opportunity to celebrate the imminent arrival of a new family member.
By following current baby shower etiquette guidelines, both hosts and guests can ensure a smooth and memorable experience for all involved.
Remember that the key to a successful baby shower is a thoughtful and thoughtful approach, reflecting the joy and love surrounding this significant life event.
Follow Our Simple Baby Shower Checklist (free printable PDF)
Baby Shower Etiquette Question – Is it okay to ask for money?
My best friend has a lot of friends and family out of state who can’t make it to the shower.
It’s really rude to put a suggestion of a place where they can donate money (for big ticket items – car seats, strollers, cribs, etc) in the wording of the invitation instead of them worrying about a registering or sending anything?
I don’t want to hurt anyone’s feelings but I also want to help my friend get the things she needs for the baby. HELP!
ANSWERS
I will say, gift cards are always welcome . I had a baby shower and on a side note, my sister got a lot of letters/cards with gift cards and checks from out of town guests.. she got all her big items in time for baby
Gift cards are becoming a more accepted form of baby shower gift. A decade ago, it would have been rude to suggest to guests that they buy a gift certificate – but I definitely think times have changed and it’s fine to say something like “to save on shipping costs, we have Babies R Us will offer gift cards” – or whatever. which suggests you have the best interests of friends or family in mind.
You’ve read all about baby shower etiquette. Now, put it into practice by following our checklist.
best supplies for a newborn baby
Newborn babies have basic needs, so the supplies needed are minimal. Some important things to have on hand include:
- Diapers and wipes: You’ll go through a lot of these two, so it’s a good idea to stock up.
- Formula or breast milk: If you are not breastfeeding, you will need to buy formula.
- Bottles and nipples: If you’re formula feeding or planning to pump and store breast milk, you’ll need bottles and nipples.
- Clothing: Newborns grow quickly, so you don’t need to buy too many clothes in advance. However, you will need some onesies, sleepers, and outfits for going out.
- A baby blanket: A soft and warm blanket is essential for swaddling and keeping your baby comfortable.
- A car seat: This is essential for getting your baby home from the hospital safely.
- A baby monitor: This is a great way to keep an ear on your baby while they sleep.
- A baby bathtub: This is not necessary but it is a handy item for bathing your baby in their first bath.
- Diaper cream: Diaper rash is common in newborns, so it’s a good idea to have a cream on hand to treat it.
- A baby carrier: This can be a great way to keep your baby close while you’re on the go.
It’s important to remember that every baby is different, so you may find that your own baby has different needs. But it’s a good starting point for gathering the essentials.
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