Monday 24 November 2014

Baby Shower Invitations Etiquette

Consider adding embellishments like this diaper pin to baby shower invitations.


Planning and hosting a baby shower starts with the invitations. These are the first impressions the guests have of the event. Select invitations to match the theme of the baby shower. Consider a theme following the baby's room or gender, such as a tea party or sports. Check with the expectant mother to finalize the guest list and send invitations a few weeks before the shower. Does this Spark an idea?


What to Include


Select baby shower invitations following the theme of the baby shower. Incorporating the theme tells guest what to expect, such as a tea party or backyard barbecue. It can also inform guests about the baby's gender or multiple births. Start the invitation wording with a short, catchy phrase such as, "Hickory, Dickory, Dock, A baby boy is heading for our block." Include the expectant mother's name, date, time, location of the shower and RSVP information. Place hostess names at the bottom of the invitation. Make sure to include information regarding participation in baby shower games such as bringing baby pictures to play a matching game. Consider adding a separate insert with directions if the location is unfamiliar to many guests.


Who to Invite


Determining a guest list depends on the type of shower you host. Check with the expectant mother as to what type of shower she prefers, women only or a couples shower. Inviting men for a couples shower is enjoyable if the expectant parents have several close couple friends. Hosting a shower for women includes the expectant mother's close friends and family. Ask the expectant mother to finalize the guest list so no one is forgotten or invited to multiple showers. Make sure to invite the soon-to-be grandparents also.


Send Invitations


Sending guests an invitation in the mail is traditional baby shower etiquette, but it isn't an absolute requirement. Follow this format for formal baby showers. Think about more modern and inexpensive options such as e-mail, phone calls or electronic invitations. Use this if the shower is small and close friends and family. Consider making your own invitations or using a baby shower invitation template from the Internet. Both of these options require a time commitment, but are less expensive than purchasing, personalized invitations.

Tags: baby shower, expectant mother, guest list, baby shower invitations, Check with, Check with expectant