Planning a baby shower is an exciting adventure filled with joy and details, from picking the perfect date to crafting those charming invitations. Mastering baby shower etiquette can turn your celebration into a delightful and smoothly-run event that everyone will remember. Dive into our friendly and comprehensive guide to navigate the essentials of baby shower planning and make your special day as magical as the little one on the way!
If you’re in need of a specific baby shower etiquette FAQ, skip to a specific section below to find your answer directly:
- When Should the Baby Shower Be Held?
- Where Should the Baby Shower Be Held?
- Who Do You Invite to a Baby Shower?
- Can the Dad to Be and Men Attend the Baby Shower?
- Should You Choose a Baby Shower Theme?
- What Information Goes on the Baby Shower Invitation?
- Who Should Guests RSVP to?
- When to Send Baby Shower Invitations?
- What Do You Do at a Baby Shower?
- When Should the Guest of Honor Send Thank You Notes?
When Should the Baby Shower Be Held?
Baby showers can be held anytime between the sixth or eighth month of the mom-to-be’s pregnancy. If you’re counting by weeks, 28-34 weeks is an ideal time to host a baby shower. This timing allows the expectant mother to comfortably attend the event while still giving her enough time to prepare for the baby’s arrival. Scheduling the shower too early may mean the mother-to-be isn’t yet ready to start planning, while holding it too close to the due date might lead to unexpected complications.
Where Should the Baby Shower Be Held?
Choosing the location for the baby shower depends on the size of the guest list and the preferences of the guest of honor. Common venues include the host’s home, a friend’s house, or a rented event space. For a more intimate setting, consider hosting it at a cozy café or a park. Ensure the location is convenient for most guests and has enough space for the planned activities.
Who Do You Invite to a Baby Shower?
Traditionally, baby showers are attended by close friends and family of the expectant mother. This typically includes the mother’s family, close friends, and work colleagues. It’s important to consider the comfort and preferences of the guest of honor when creating the guest list. Ensure that everyone invited feels comfortable and that the event remains a joyful celebration.
Can the Dad-to-Be and Men Attend the Baby Shower?
While traditionally baby showers have been female-only events, it’s becoming more common to include the dad-to-be and other men. Co-ed baby showers or “sip and see” events are gaining popularity, where both men and women celebrate together. If you choose to include men, ensure the activities and atmosphere are inclusive and enjoyable for all attendees.
Should You Choose a Baby Shower Theme?
Choosing a theme for the baby shower can add a fun and cohesive touch to the event. Popular themes include nautical, woodland, or floral designs, but you can tailor the theme to the interests of the guest of honor. A well-chosen theme can enhance decorations, games, and even the menu, creating a memorable experience for everyone involved.
What Information Goes on the Baby Shower Invitation?
Baby shower invitations should include essential details such as the date, time, and location of the event. Also, include RSVP instructions, the name of the guest of honor, and any specific requests or themes related to the shower. If there are any special instructions, such as a gift registry or dress code, be sure to mention those as well.
Who Should Guests RSVP to?
Guests should RSVP with the hostess of the baby shower, not the mom-to-be. This allows the host to accurately plan for the number of attendees and make necessary arrangements for seating, food, and activities. Make sure to provide clear contact information for guests to confirm their attendance.
When to Send Baby Shower Invitations?
Send out baby shower invitations about 6-8 weeks before the event. This timeline gives guests enough time to check their schedules and make any necessary travel plans. For guests who may need more time to make arrangements, such as those coming from out of town, consider sending invitations a bit earlier. Find more tips to complete your timeline using our guide on when to send baby shower invitations.
What Do You Do at a Baby Shower?
Activities at a baby shower typically include games, gift opening, and socializing. Common games include diaper raffles, baby trivia, and guess the baby food flavors. Providing a variety of activities helps keep guests entertained and makes the event more enjoyable. Don’t forget to have refreshments and snacks available for guests to enjoy.
Additionally, you can set up advice cards or a message wall where guests can write down words of wisdom for the mom-to-be. It is also standard for the mom-to-be, dad-to-be, hostess, and grandparents to give brief speeches and share their sentiments towards the end of the baby shower. Lastly, don’t forget to send guests off with cute baby shower favors as baby shower etiquette.
When Should the Guest of Honor Send Thank You Notes?
The guest of honor should send thank you notes within 2-4 weeks after the baby shower. This allows time to personally thank each guest for their presence and gifts. Sending thank you notes promptly shows appreciation and maintains good etiquette. Include a personal note about how the gift will be used or how much their attendance meant to you.
Must-Have Shutterfly Products for Expecting Parents
When you’re expecting a baby, Shutterfly has everything you need to celebrate and document this special time:
- After your child is born, create birth announcements that capture the joy of your new arrival and share the news with family and friends.
- Explore our range of personalized baby gifts, from custom nursery wall art to baby blankets, perfect for welcoming your little one into the world.
- Capture every precious milestone with our baby photo books, designed to hold and showcase your favorite moments, from the first ultrasound to the first steps.
With Shutterfly, you can cherish and share each milestone in a way that’s uniquely yours.
Final Thoughts
By following these guidelines, you’ll ensure that your baby shower is a memorable and well-organized event, celebrating the upcoming arrival in style and grace. For more tips and ideas, visit Shutterfly’s Baby Shower Invitations page.
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