Baby Shower Etiquette: Hosting with Heart and Style

Let’s Talk Baby Showers—The Right Way to Host

So, you’re planning a baby shower? First of all—how exciting! But let’s be real, planning one can feel like navigating a maze of “do this, don’t do that.” You’ve probably heard things like “family members shouldn’t host” or “never ask for gifts directly.” Confusing, right?

Here’s what I think: let’s break this down together, like friends chatting over coffee. We’ll go through everything from who should host, to the best invitation tips, to the modern rules that actually matter.

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Who Hosts the Baby Shower? Let’s Set That Straight

Back in the day, it was a no-no for family members to throw a baby shower. Why? People thought it looked like the family was begging for gifts. But times have changed, thank goodness!

These days, it’s totally fine for just about anyone to host the shower—your sister, your best friend, even your coworker. The only person who shouldn’t be hosting? The mom or dad-to-be. That still feels a bit like gift-grabbing.

Here’s a fun twist: multiple people can co-host, and that actually makes things easier and more affordable for everyone involved. More hands, more creativity, more fun.

Planning the Guest List: Be Thoughtful, Be Kind

Now, this is where you’ll want to sit down with the parents-to-be and ask, “Who would you love to have there?” Because really, a baby shower should feel personal.

Once you have a guest list, you’ll want to think about logistics. Are you hosting in someone’s backyard? A tea room? A rented hall? Your location will shape the vibe and the invite count.

Don’t forget this—include all important people: family, close friends, and even that sweet neighbor who always brings cookies.

Gift Registries: Yes, They’re Helpful!

Okay, let’s talk gifts. You won’t believe this, but some people still feel weird about gift registries. Honestly? They’re lifesavers. They help guests know what’s actually useful instead of guessing and buying baby shoes that’ll be outgrown in two weeks.

So if you’re hosting, gently suggest the parents-to-be create a registry. Big stores like Target, Amazon, or Buy Buy Baby make it easy. Some sites even let you combine multiple stores into one list.

Share the registry link in the invite (more on that soon!) or on the shower website if you’re getting techy with it.

Baby Shower Invitations: Timing and Wording

Let’s chat invites. When should you send them? Ideally, 4–6 weeks before the shower. That gives everyone enough time to RSVP and shop for gifts.

What should you include? Here’s a quick checklist:

• Name of the parent(s)-to-be
• Date, time, and location
• RSVP details
• Registry link (yes, again!)
• Theme or dress code, if any

You can go old-school with printed invites or modern with digital ones. Sites like Evite or Paperless Post are easy, stylish, and quick.

Theme or No Theme? Totally Up to You

Themes are fun, but not required. If the mom-to-be loves sunflowers, go yellow and bright! If she’s into books, throw a “baby storybook” shower.

Keep the theme light and centered on what will make the guest of honor smile. Don’t overthink it. A loving vibe trumps Instagram-perfect decor any day.

Food and Drinks: Think Easy and Enjoyable

You don’t need a five-course meal. Honestly, finger foods, mini sandwiches, cupcakes, and lemonade do the trick. Bonus points for mocktails!

Dietary restrictions? Always good to ask and accommodate when possible. It shows thoughtfulness, and guests will appreciate it.

Games or Nah? Feel the Room

Games can be a blast—or a total eye-roll—depending on the crowd. If your guest list leans playful, go for classics like Baby Bingo, Guess the Baby Food, or Diaper Raffle.

But if everyone’s a bit more low-key, maybe just one or two short games, and then let the convo flow naturally. Read the room, and you’ll know what’s best.

Gift Opening: Yes or Skip?

Ah, the age-old question: should the mom-to-be open gifts during the shower? Some say it’s sweet and fun. Others say it drags on. Here's the middle ground:

• If she opens gifts, keep it short and thank each person.
• If not, take a photo of each gift later with a thank-you note.

Either way, make sure every guest feels appreciated.

Thank You Cards: Old-Fashioned but Gold

This might sound old-school, but hand-written thank-you notes? They still matter. They show care and make your guests feel valued.

Pro tip: jot down who gave what during the gift-opening. It’ll save your sanity later.

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Conclusion: Celebrate with Love, Not Rules

Well, my friend, here’s the truth: the “right” baby shower is the one that celebrates love, support, and new beginnings. Etiquette matters, sure, but heart matters more.

Make the mom-to-be feel special. Make guests feel welcome. That’s the secret to a memorable baby shower—one that everyone leaves smiling.

So, how do you feel about hosting now? Confident? Inspired? I hope this helped—and hey, if you’re still stuck, don’t hesitate to ask. You’ve got this!

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