Baby Shower Etiquette

Not sure what is appropriate? This is the baby shower etiquette that most people expect

Although there are no written rules for baby showers, there are some unwritten rules which have become traditions over time.  Following is a list of what one might expect for baby shower etiquette if they are attending, or more importantly, hosting a baby shower.

What customarily happens at a more formal baby shower?
As each of the guests arrive, the host(s) greets them.  After everyone has arrived, the mom-to-be (and father to-be if he's attending) are recognized.  They can make a statement if they want (such as thanking everyone for coming).  Since it's possible not everyone will know each other, each guest should introduce themselves and tell how they know the parent(s)-to-be.

After introductions, an activity (typically a baby shower game) is played to get everyone in a fun mood.  After the first activity, snacks and beverages are served, and then that is followed by another activity or two.  If you have a main dish of food, it is then served followed by some cake. After eating, everyone is ready for the guest of honor (mom-to-be) to open her gifts.  After all of the oohing and aahing, the guests will begin to leave.  If there are baby shower favors, they will usually be given to the guests as they go.

Are baby showers only for first-time moms?
Not anymore. It was once normal for a mother to only have a shower for her first baby, but now it's not unusual for there to be a baby shower for each of her children because each child is special and their birth should be celebrated.

Should there be a shower if the mother has already had the baby?
Absolutely. Again, new baby shower etiquette holds that each baby is a miracle who's birth should be rejoiced.  Besides, sometimes it is difficult for one reason or another to hold a party before the baby is born.

Can a shower be held if the parents are adopting?
Yes. In fact, adoption baby showers are quite the norm.  Be careful if you are planning one though.  Make sure the adoption goes through first because sometimes they don't work out for a wide variety of reasons. 

Are surprise baby showers a good idea?
Only if you think the mom-to-be would enjoy it.  They are much more difficult to plan for though because you'll have to make a lot of the decisions without input from the mom-to-be, and that can be risky.

Who should plan a baby shower?
A friend or relative of the mom-to-be.  Often it is a group of friends/relatives.  One or more of them will typically play the host  The mom-to-be should be consulted with to determine the guest list, baby shower theme, date and time of the shower, baby shower invitations, and shower food and favors.  But it is the party hosts who will make sure it all comes together as planned and pay for everything.

How do I invite the guests?
Baby shower invitations are sent out to the guests as you wish.  Printed invitations add a classy touch, but you could also invite guests by e-mail or phone call.

Do I have to give a gift?
If you attend the baby shower, you must bring a gift.  If you are invited and don't attend, it is up to your discretion on whether or not you want to give a gift.  But remember, the parent(s)-to-be thought enough to invite you, so take your relationship with them into consideration.

What about host gifts and thank you cards?
The mom-to-be typically gives the host(s) a thank you gift and is responsible for writing and sending out thank you cards to all of the guests.

I'm going to be the host for a baby shower. Where do I begin?
Check out our baby shower planning page to get some more information on what you'll need to prepare for.

Remember, follow the basic unwritten rules of baby shower etiquette we outlined above and you'll be confident you are doing things right.

Here are other baby gift links you may be interested in:

Baby Shower Baskets
Baby Shower Books
Baby Shower Cakes
Baby Shower Cards
Baby Shower Centerpieces
Baby Shower Corsages
Baby Shower Crafts
Baby Shower Etiquette
Baby Shower Games
Baby Shower Gifts
Baby Shower Ideas
Baby Shower Planning
Baby Shower Poems
Baby Shower Supplies
Baby Shower Thank You Cards
Boy Baby Showers
Girl Baby Showers
Twins Baby Showers

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