Should a Mother Throw a Baby Shower? Tips and Considerations

Planning a baby shower is an exciting part of getting ready for a new baby. Many wonder if the mom-to-be should host her own shower. The tradition holds that the mother-to-be should not throw the baby shower. Doing so might look like you are asking for gifts. Instead, it’s typically friends or family who throw this celebration for the expecting mom.

If you’re expecting and worried about who will organize the event, talk to a close friend or a relative. They will likely be happy to help take the reins. In the past, immediate family members were often excluded from hosting the shower, but these days, it’s more acceptable for any close friend or family member to do so.

Baby showers are a wonderful way to bring together family and friends to celebrate the upcoming arrival. As the guest of honor, you can relax and enjoy the special day without the stress of planning it yourself.

Planning the Baby Shower

Planning a baby shower involves choosing the right time, location, and theme. It also requires creating a guest list and sending out invitations in a timely manner.

Choosing the Right Time and Location

Selecting the best time for the baby shower is crucial. It’s often held a month or two before the due date. This timing helps ensure the mother-to-be is comfortable and able to enjoy the event. Coordinate with her to find a date that suits both her schedule and that of key guests.

For the location, consider the size of the guest list and the type of activities planned. A home, community hall, or a rented venue can all work well. The location should be easy to access and have enough space for all planned activities and seating arrangements.

Creating the Guest List

Begin by consulting with the mother-to-be about whom she wants to invite. Immediate family, close friends, and perhaps some coworkers might be on the list. It’s important to limit the list to those who are genuinely close to the expecting mother to keep the event intimate.

Managing RSVPs is crucial to ensure there’s enough food and seating for everyone. You might also want to divide the guest list into smaller groups if it’s too large, making sure each group is manageable.

Deciding on a Theme

Choosing a theme can make planning the other details much easier. Themes can range from classic baby motifs like animals or storybook characters to more personalized themes reflecting the parents’ interests.

The chosen theme will determine the decorations, invitations, and even some of the games or activities. It’s a lot of fun to get creative with this part, and it helps to set a joyful and festive mood for the event.

Sending Out Invitations

Once the date, location, and guest list are set, it’s time to send out invitations. Aim to send them at least four weeks in advance to give guests plenty of notice. The invitations should include all necessary details: date, time, location, RSVP info, and registry details if applicable.

You can choose to send physical invitations through the mail or opt for a digital version. Both methods are effective, but digital invites might be easier to track RSVP responses. Consider the preferences of the guest list and the overall feel you want for the announcement.

Hosting Etiquette

Hosting a baby shower involves thoughtful planning and following certain social rules. These include choosing the right host, understanding etiquette, deciding on a coed shower, and managing the budget.

Determining the Host

Traditionally, friends or distant relatives host baby showers. This avoids the appearance that the family is asking for gifts. You might consider asking a close friend or extended family member to be the host. In some cases, coworkers might also host the event.

It’s customary that the expecting parents do not host their own shower. This keeps the focus on celebrating without seeming like they’re requesting presents.

Understanding Baby Shower Etiquette

Baby shower etiquette includes several key points. Gifts are a central part of the celebration, so the host should include a registry link. Invitations should be sent out about four to six weeks in advance.

Tracks like games and activities should be well-planned to keep guests entertained. Additionally, the event often happens in the afternoon and includes light refreshments or snacks.

Considering a Coed Shower

You can also consider hosting a coed baby shower. Including both men and women can make the event more inclusive and fun. Make sure the activities and games cater to all guests.

If you choose a coed shower, think about the venue. A backyard or large living room can be great for accommodating a larger, mixed crowd.

Managing the Budget and Expenses

Setting and managing the budget is essential. The host typically covers the costs, so plan according to your financial comfort. Decide on the venue, decorations, food, and activities that fit within your means.

You can also ask close friends or family to contribute. They might help with food or decorations to ease the financial burden.

By considering these aspects, your baby shower will be memorable and enjoyable for everyone involved.

Baby Shower Activities

Baby showers are a time to celebrate and have fun. Key activities include planning entertaining games, organizing appealing food and drinks, and arranging an engaging gift-opening.

Planning Fun Games

Games are a highlight of any baby shower. Classic games like Baby Bingo or Diaper Derby are loved by many. Baby Bingo involves marking off baby-related items on a card as the mom opens gifts.

Diaper Derby can get competitive as guests race to change a diaper on a doll. You might also enjoy a Name That Baby Tune quiz, where guests guess popular songs with “baby” in the title.

Creating a mix of interactive and relaxed games ensures everyone has a good time, making it a memorable event.

Organizing Refreshments and Menu

The food can make a big impact on your baby shower. Depending on the time of day, you can serve brunch, lunch, or even an afternoon tea. Consider setting up a refreshment table with finger foods like mini sandwiches, fruit platters, and cookies.

Mocktails can be a fun and inclusive drink option for everyone. If you want to add a personal touch, you could include a themed cake or cupcakes decorated with baby shower motifs.

Offering a mix of savory and sweet treats caters to different tastes and dietary needs, ensuring all guests can enjoy the party.

Arranging Gift-Opening

The gift-opening segment is a key part of the baby shower. Arrange comfortable seating where everyone can watch. A gift table can help keep presents organized before opening.

You might assign a friend to hand each gift to the mom-to-be and another to note who gave each present. This makes it easier to send thank-you notes later.

Some guests enjoy playing a game like Baby Gift Bingo during this time, where they mark off items on a bingo card as they’re unwrapped, keeping everyone engaged and entertained.