Baby Shower Etiquette
Baby shower etiquette is slightly dependent upon the culture and region where you live. Generally, different cultural background has different baby shower etiquette. Whether you’ve hosted baby showers before or not, chances are you’ve got some questions regarding the right baby shower etiquette. There are no specific set of do’s and don’ts, but there are a few general rules of thumb.
To follow the rules of baby shower etiquette is equally important for both the host and the guests. For the host and the hostess, they should keep in mind that creating a warm and friendly atmosphere is the key to a successful baby shower. They should decide in advance the guests who can be invited. Generally, anyone the mom-to-be feels she should call is entitled to showing up. Formal and written baby shower invitations are usually the better choice. With a written invitation, guests have all details at their fingertips and need not rely on memory. Plus, they should instruct directions on how to get there. Send out shower invitations at least 3 to 4 weeks in advance. Send them even earlier for out-of-town guests. Request an RSVP by a date 2 weeks before the baby shower. Meanwhile, she’s the best guide here. Greet all guests at the door as they walk in, provide them with name tags and introduce them to others to get conversations going. Keep records of each gift. Write down which guest gave a certain gift. This will help the mom-to-be when it comes time to send thank you cards. Sending thank you cards is essential baby shower etiquette. Walk guests to the door as they leave and be sure to thank them for coming.
Only one side put efforts to follow the baby shower etiquette is far from enough. A harmonious atmosphere can not be achieved without the contribution of guests. The real basic rule for guests is to take the wishes of the mom-to-be into account at every stage. That includes the games, food, invitation list and all other aspects of the baby shower. Guests should hand gifts to mom-to-be for her to open and take it from her once she’s done with it. This will save her the hassle of continually getting up and moving about to pick up gifts. Sometimes, some guests may need to leave early. They’ll appreciate it if mom-to-be will open presents while everyone is eating. Food and related arrangements deserve special attention. For one thing, expectant mothers can’t eat everything they normally would. At the same time, start the baby shower on time and keep it fairly short. Don’t get bogged down in any one segment like games. Be sensitive to mom-to-be’s energy level and any signs of fatigue she may show. End the party if she’s beginning to feel run down.
In all, baby shower etiquette is significant to a baby shower party, but it is not written in stone. Anyone can host a baby shower! Your baby shower is going to be a huge success! Just follow these few guidelines mentioned above.