Baby Shower FAQs

Common Questions & Answers For The Shower Planner -

Q - Who should host a baby shower?

A - The shower can be hosted by a close friend (or friends) of the mother-to-be. It has traditionally considered improper for a family member of the mother-to-be to host because showers are primarily a gift-giving event. However, today family members commonly help and many often plan the showers in many regions. It is still considered improper in some areas for family members to host the shower, so if you are concerned about this, it is best to ask some close friends that might know more of the local etiquette.

A - Throwing any type of party for yourself, where guests are asked to bring gifts, is still frowned upon by many people. It all really depends on how understanding your guests would be about the situation. Some people care, some people don't.

A - There are no rules saying a mother-to-be must have a baby shower. Simply let your friends and family know you don't wish to have one.

A - As long as you do not invite the same guests, it is fine. Sometimes family or friends don't get along or are from separate parts of the new parents lives (dad's co-workers as opposed to mom's family members) and two showers are needed.

A - A shower typically ranges from about 5-20 people although there can be more or less. Remember that people want to get a chance to spend time with the mother-to-be, so make sure that the number of people keeps the shower somewhat intimate.

A - Immediate female family members of both the mother & father-to-be's families should be invited as well as close friends of the mother-to-be. It is best to consult with the mother-to-be when making up the invitation list.

A - These friends should definitely be invited to the shower. Send them an invitation and let the decision of attending be theirs. While many will be ready to share in the joy of the new baby at the shower, it may be more difficult for some. If someone decides not to attend, respect their decision and be understanding.

A - The home of the hostess is the most common place for the shower to be held, however the home of any friend or relative who is willing, or places like banquet halls, church gyms, restaurants, picnic/park areas and club meeting halls are becoming common as well.

A - Typically the host(ess) is responsible for all expenses when throwing a party. If you have your heart set on having your shower at a restaurant, but your budget doesn't allow for pricey meals, try calling ahead to the restaurant and asking if they can make a special menu of lower priced foods for your guests. If you believe your friends and family would be understanding and willing to pay for their own food, you might try including in the invitation that free drinks and dessert will be provided, letting them politely know meals are not free.

A - A good time for the shower would be 1-2 months before the baby's due date. If the shower is held later, there is always a chance that the baby will be an early arrival and make it to his/her own shower or the mom and baby may still be at the place of delivery. The shower can also be held after the baby is born. This is the tradition in some cultures or regions.

A - It can be a neat idea to have a shower after the baby is born and this is tradition in some regions and cultures. This allows everyone to meet the new arrival. However, this time can be a hectic and tiring time for new parents so be sure to plan accordingly.

A - This can be tricky, unless all the guests know both moms-to-be equally well. If some guests know one of the mothers and not the other, the issue will arrive as to whether they should buy a present for each, or just the mom they know. Also, some moms-to-be prefer to have this special occasion be centered around themselves, like their wedding and may not appreciate sharing the limelight. However, if you know the two wouldn't mind sharing the occasion and all guests know both moms, it might be a fun idea.

A - If two or more people want to host the shower, and can get along well enough to run it together, co-hosting is a great idea.

A - When throwing a baby shower for a loved one, you should try your best to get along well for the mom-to-be's sake, however sometimes this is impossible. If your host or co-host is simply unbearable, try talking to them rationally about what is upsetting you and perhaps work out a solution. If worse comes to worse, you may think about telling them thank you for what they've done so far, but you will take it from here. Feelings will probably be hurt and friendships may be damaged, so think first before acting.

<< Previous    [1]  2  3    Next >>