Remember the Ps and Qs of Baby Shower Etiquette

Throwing a baby shower seems easy—right?  Wrong!  All of the little details involved mean that whoever hosts the baby shower (which is a common source of dispute in itself) is left with a lot of decisions! While there are certain traditions associated with the throwing of a baby shower, other things can be determined at the host’s discretion.  Despite the difficult decisions, by following basic baby shower etiquette, you can ensure that you throw a loving baby shower for the proud mother-to-be!

Logistics: Who, What, When, Where, and Why

The first question to answer and perhaps one of the most commonly asked, is who should be the host of the baby shower.  In traditional baby shower etiquette, the baby shower was thrown by someone outside of the future mother’s family.  This usually left the duty up to a friend or coworker.  However, nowadays, a baby shower can be thrown by anyone.  The future mommy’s sister is usually the host today, but it is also common for groups of friends and coworkers to throw joint baby showers as well.

Another common dispute when it comes to baby shower etiquette is whether or not multiple baby showers are acceptable.  Though in the past, it has been traditional for baby showers to be given just for the first born child, now it is common to have one for every child.  Sometimes, there are even multiple baby showers held for one baby.  Multiple baby showers ensure that everyone who is important to the parents-to-be is present to share in the celebration.

You’re Invited!

There are several key pieces of information that should be included on the invitations as part of proper baby shower etiquette.  First, make sure to put the names of both the host and the mommy-to-be.  It is important that both names are on the invitation because they are nearly always different people.

Also, make sure to put the standard information, like the location and date of the baby shower.  Include a phone number for questions, and a number at which to RSVP.  Other information is not standard, but should still be included as a part of baby shower etiquette.  Directions can be helpful, especially if you are inviting guests from out of state.  Also, including the baby shower’s theme and the place at which the mother is registered are important bits of information.  If you include all of this information on the invitations, the guests will appreciate it.

Staying Within the Guidelines

Though these are good guidelines for baby shower etiquette, it is by no means a tragedy if you fail to comply with certain rules or traditions.  In the end, the important part of the baby shower will be taken care of no matter what—the future mother will always be surrounded by those she loves.