Traditionally, the mother-to-be’s closest family and friends should send out the baby shower invitations. Depending on the type of baby shower, some friends of the mother-to-be may also be included. If the mother-to-be is having a co-ed shower, then both the men and women who are close to the couple should be invited.
It’s important to keep the guest list limited to only close friends and family, as it’s not appropriate to invite every single acquaintance. If the mother-to-be has a paper or online invitation service, she may be able to use that to create and send out the invitations.
Another option is for the mother-to-be to enlist a friend or family member to help her create and mail out the invitations—handwritten invites can be particularly thoughtful. Be sure to make the invitations clear about who is invited and include the date, time, and address of the event.
Also, make sure to plan out when to mail the invitations, as the right window of time is essential to ensure adequate RSVPs.
How much notice do you give for a baby shower?
When planning a baby shower, it is generally recommended to give guests 6-8 weeks of advance notice. This allows for enough time for those invited to plan for the event, arrange for childcare if necessary, and purchase a thoughtful gift for the expecting mother.
However, the actual amount of advance notice needed may vary depending on the size of the event and individual circumstances. For instance, a small, intimate gathering of close family and friends may need less notice than a larger celebration with many guests.
If possible, try to give guests as much notice as possible; the more advanced notice they are given, the less likely anyone will make a last minute decision not to attend.
Who pays for a baby shower?
Traditionally, the host (or hosts) of the baby shower are in charge of paying for the event. Who this is will depend on the culture and particular baby shower you’re attending. Generally, it’s the mother-to-be’s closest friends and family members who decide to host the baby shower in her honor.
In some situations, relatives—like the mother’s mother or mother-in-law—may decide to host the baby shower as a surprise for the expectant mom. In these cases, the relatives may take full financial responsibility for the event.
You may also find that more than one person takes on the role of host for the baby shower. This could mean that the costs are split between them in order to reduce the burden.
For example, if the expectant parents’ workplace is hosting the baby shower, the costs may be covered by the employer or some other organization. Additionally, some churches may host baby showers and help cover some costs.
No matter who decides to host a baby shower, friends and family can pitch in and help with the cost. Some guests may be able to bring decorations or food, while others may contribute a financial donation.
Ultimately, ensuring that the costs of the baby shower are covered is the responsibility of the host(s).
Is 5 weeks enough notice for baby shower?
It really depends on the type of baby shower you are planning. If it is a large gathering with many guests, 5 weeks might not be sufficient notice. You should allow enough time for your guests to make travel arrangements and for you to organize the event and buy any supplies you might need.
If you are having a smaller, more informal shower with a few guests, 5 weeks might be adequate. You should still plan to send out invitations at least 4 weeks in advance to give guests enough time to plan and RSVP.
What is the etiquette for baby showers?
The etiquette for baby showers typically involves inviting guests, preparing food, and playing games. Guests should be invited a few weeks in advance of the event, with the invitation indicating the theme, location, and any required attire or gifts.
Food and decorations should be chosen to fit the occasion, and games should be appropriate for the estimated guest attendance. Before the event, the party organizer should plan a schedule of activities and designate an area to open gifts and note who gave each item.
The honoree should thank guests for coming and for their gifts, or have a designated person do this for them. At the end of the event, it is polite to follow up with a note of appreciation to each guest.
Guests should consider bringing a small gift of their own, along with a card. It is polite to refrain from bringing gifts that are too big or impractical as they can overshadow the honoree’s gifts. Etiquette dictates not to wear black to the shower, and clothing should be comfortable and appropriate for the event.
What should I serve at a 2pm baby shower?
At a 2pm baby shower, it is important to serve a selection of light and tasty dishes that will keep everyone satisfied. Consider making some finger sandwiches, such as cucumber and cream cheese, or smoked salmon and cream cheese.
Serve with a variety of salads, such as tomato and mozzarella, or potato salad. If you are feeling a bit more indulgent, you could bake a selection of mini quiches or tartlets.
For those with a sweet tooth, bake a selection of cupcakes or other mini cakes, or provide a variety of biscuits and slices. Decorate the food table with balloons, confetti and twigs of fresh baby’s breath.
Make sure you put out trays of drinks, such as tea, coffee, juice and sparkling water.
By providing a varied selection of food, you can be sure to keep everyone’s appetite satisfied at the baby shower.
Do I have to open gifts at baby shower?
No, it is not a requirement to open gifts at a baby shower. It is ultimately up to you and your guests as to whether or not gifts should be opened during the event. If you would prefer to open gifts after the shower, you can politely let your guests know that you will be doing so.
Many baby showers opt to not open the gifts as it can take up a lot of time and take away from the overall celebration. In this case, thanking each guest verbally as they arrive or when they leave is a great option.
If you decide to open the gifts, be sure to show your appreciation for each one and thank the gift giver for their thoughtful gesture.
Can you send evites for baby shower?
Yes, you can absolutely send evites for a baby shower. Electronic invitations make planning and attending events easier, and allow you to keep track of RSVPs, comments, and other additional information.
Depending on which platform you use, you can create and send your evite in a matter of minutes. You can easily design evites online with your own images, words, and style, or choose from a variety of premade templates to suit your needs.
To ensure the invitees receive the evite, send out reminders a few days before the event to avoid last-minute complications. Evites also ensure you never run out of paper invitations and can help you save both time and money!.
How far in advance should baby shower invites be sent out?
For an optimal outcome and maximum attendance, baby shower invites should be sent out 6-8 weeks before the baby shower date. This allows guests adequate time to plan and arrange their schedule in order to attend.
Additionally, in order to not inconvenience family or close friends, you may want to give extra advance notice, such as 8–10 weeks out. However, if the baby shower is being thrown as a surprise, then it is best to send out the invitations one or two weeks prior.
This helps ensure that guests have enough time to respond but are still surprised.
Do you write a baby shower card to both parents?
Yes, it is always appreciated to include both parents when writing a baby shower card. In the card, you can include your well wishes and congratulations to the mother and father and wish them the best in their journey of parenthood.
Writing the card to both parents shows your support and appreciation for both the mother and father’s role. Depending on how well you know the expecting parents, you may want to tailor the message specifically for each one.
Regardless, writing a card for both parents is a great way to show that you care about both and are excited for them as they embark on their new adventure of parenthood.
