Baby Shower Etiquette...the Four W's of Hosting A Baby Shower

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Baby Shower Etiquette 101

The 4 W's to planning a baby shower

Overtime, baby shower etiquette has become more and more relaxed. The most important things to remember are to have fun and make sure the mom-to-be is comfortable!

1) Who Should Host The Baby Shower?

The role of Baby Shower Hostess usually goes to a close friend or family member.

idea: pair up with one or two girlfriends and host the shower together. This takes all of the responsibility (both time-wise and financially) off of one person.

2) What Is My First Step?

Meet with the mom-to-be (and/or dad-to-be) to find out:

A good date and time
Where they are registered (helpful to include on invitations)
Any nursery color scheme or theme (can include this on the invitation and also good info to know for decorating for the shower)
Special people to invite/along with addresses or email

Meeting with the parents usually gets the juices flowing for great baby shower ideas!

Surprise shower? Get invite list from a member of the family or maybe you already know who to invite!

3a) When Should The Baby Shower Take Place?

Ideally, baby showers are held 2-3 months before the baby is born. This way the mom is still able to get around somewhat easily. But any time is fine. It is ultimately up to you and the mom-to-be.

Weekends are an ideal time to hold the baby shower. Guests are usually ready to unwind and relax. Have a late-morning brunch , and afternoon lunch, or an evening appetizer!

3b) When is it okay to have another shower if you were already given one for a previous child?

This is a tricky one. People have different views regarding this issue. In general, it is okay to have another shower if your children are 4 or more years apart (the logic being, styles have changed, items such as swings and strollers may be old or damaged, or the parents-to-be may have gotten rid of previous baby supplies- especially if it is a "surprise pregnancy!)

It is also acceptable to have a 2nd shower if your child is a different gender from your previous child.

4) Where Should The Shower Be Held?

Anywhere!

Hostess’ home
Friend or relative’s home
Backyard
Park
Restaurant
Office (if it is a work shower)
Church
Coffee Shop
Day Spa!

Follow Our Simple Baby Shower Checklist
You've read all about baby shower etiquette. Now put it into motion by following our checklist.

Have some great Baby Shower Etiquette ideas to add?
We would love to hear from you!

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