There is really no such thing as Baby Shower Etiquette. Instead there are some general guidelines of good taste that have come about over the years. However, it is up to the host or hostess of the baby shower as to whether you want to follow these guidelines.
Here are a few of the basic baby shower etiquette guidelines:
- How long should a baby shower last? - Typically, 2 hours.
- Who pays for the baby shower? Usually the hostess will pay
- Can there be more than one hostess? Yes. They then share the expense and planning
- Who can give a baby shower? Usually a non-family member. The mother-to-be should never be the hostess of her own shower. A family-member or friend should play hostess, although it is okay to hold the shower in the new mother’s home if that is the best location.
- Who gets invited? It depends on your relationship with the mother-to-be. If you are a work or school friend, then you would want to invite other school friends or co-workers. If you are a relative, then you will want to discuss the guest list with the mother-to-be.
- What is the baby shower etiquette about the timing of a baby shower? Discuss the best time for the shower with the expectant mother. Typically you want to hold a baby shower approximately 6 weeks before the due date. It is becoming more common to have the shower after the baby is born, which is a lot of fun for the mother and guest as they get to see the new baby.
- Does a shower have to be on the weekend? Not necessarily. Weekends are often preferred as that is when most people typically have off work, and usually dads can be home to babysit the other children. However, more and more showers are being held on week nights for those who work during the day.
- What’s the best venue for a baby shower? Most host a baby shower in their home, however, if expense is not a problem a restaurant or reception hall may be the perfect choice, especially if parking and noise might be a problem in a close neighborhood. You may also find that your apartment complex has a community room that you can book, or you might check with your church and see if you can use their fellowship hall.
- Is it necessary to have a baby shower theme? Not at all. However, it does make it easier when planning the décor, invitations, favors and menu. Following a theme can add a lot of fun and flavor to the event, and there are so many cute themes you can choose.
- When should baby shower invitations be sent? As early as possible, but at least six weeks in advance, although some suggest that 3 weeks is enough time. Be sure to follow some basic guidelines for the particulars of baby shower invitations.
These are just the basic baby shower etiquette guidelines that will help you if you are thinking about planning a baby shower. The most important thing to remember is to keep it fun and have the focus be on the mother and new baby.
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