Baby Shower Etiquette
OK so we’ve all attending a few too many baby showers where there is always the “crazy” aunt, sister, friend, etc in attendance. She goes a little over board with the spiked punch and eventually finds herself crying in a corner or lashing out at the mommy-to-be. How can this horrendous behavior be avoided? A friend of mine happens to have a family full of these not-so-classy relatives and decided that, as a joke, send out basic baby shower etiquette ideas. Although she sent them out as a gag, the baby shower actually went very smoothly. Because of this, I’ve compiled a few do’s and don’ts that you may want to take notes on… maybe even send them out to your guests!
Invitation Etiquette
As hostess, you are responsible for selecting, addressing and sending out the perfect baby shower invitations. Choose a style that suits the theme of your shower and don’t forget to get matching thank you cards!
- DO check with the expectant mother to finalize the guest list - you don’t want to forget an important friend or relative!
- DON’T expect Mom to take part in any of the other planning, decorating or clean-up. This is her day to be spoiled!
- DO order and send your invitations at least two weeks in advance of the event.
- DON’T forget any important details on the invitation. Remember to list the date, time and location of the shower as well as your phone number in case guests have questions.
Party Etiquette
- DO have a few extra chairs set out for late or unexpected guests so they don’t feel awkward when they arrive.
- DON’T forget to introduce guests as they come in, especially those who may not have met before. Use name tags if necessary.
- DO provide refreshments throughout the shower and a light meal or finger foods with the cake.
- DON’T force or cajole guests into playing games if they would rather sit back and watch.
- DO keep the party moving along with steady activities to avoid awkward silences and dead spots in the party.
- DON’T bother the Guest of Honor with trivial concerns or any negative comments. If people aren’t having fun or the cake fell on the floor, keep smiling and Mom will follow your lead!
Thank You Card Etiquette
Thank you cards are an important way of showing the shower guests how much you and the expectant mother appreciate their time, gifts and well wishes.
- DO keep track of who has sent which gift by writing their gift on the back of their card. This makes personalizing thank you cards an easy task after the shower.
- DON’T wait too long after the shower to send the cards in the mail. Guests should receive their thank you cards within 2 to 3 weeks of the event.
