Being aware of etiquette helps the hostess of a baby shower ensure her event is a success for the expectant mother and guests. While many of the formal practices observed in the past have been relaxed, many of the traditional rules of etiquette have survived for a very good reason: they take the guesswork out of planning the shower and help set everyone's expectations!
Invitations - Setting the Tone of the Shower
Give everyone plenty of time to prepare for the baby shower by sending out invitations at least two to three weeks ahead of the event. This allows plenty of time for guests to 1) plan their schedules, 2) find a sitter for their kids, and 3) shop for a fabulous baby shower gift.
Hosting - The Best Baby Shower Gift You Can Give
Traditionally, a friend, but not a relative, of the expectant mother was expected to host the shower to avoid having it look as though the family were soliciting presents. Now, however, anyone can throw the baby shower to honor the mother-to-be including the expectant mom herself!
Because hosting a baby shower can be quite expensive in terms of both time and money, someone who gladly volunteers for the honor is best for the job. Never put someone on the spot and ask him/her to host a shower. Volunteer hosts who are happy to perform this service for their friend or family member are the best hosts to have.
Timing of the Shower
The baby shower is usually held before the birth of the baby. In the very late stages of the pregnancy, there is a tendency for fears to set in for a variety of reasons - bodily discomfort, stress, worry about the delivery - so the baby shower is often times just the diversion the mom needs to ease her mind.
The sight of loved ones gathered to celebrate her pregnancy helps remind the mom-to-be of the importance of her pregnancy. Now, traditionally, showers were only held for the first child, but now, that's out the window! Showers are now acceptable for subsequent children, including those who are adopted.
Guest List
While it may be tempting to do all the planning for the expectant mother, having her input on the guest list is critical. There may be many guests she'd like to include on the guest list whom the host doesn't know. And though traditionally, baby showers were only for women, the mother nowadays can choose to have both men and women at her gathering. In fact, a greater number of baby showers are being held for both the mom and dad today.
Behavior
Since the purpose of the shower is to celebrate the arriving baby, congratulations to the expectant parents(s) are expected of every guest. And as with any party, guests should also thank the host for holding and planning the shower.
About the Author:
Still need to find a baby shower gift for the big event? Charmaine L. Smoot has hand-picked some fabulous baby shower gifts for mom as well as baby shower gifts for dad.
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