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Who
should host the shower?
Tradition suggests that sisters-in-law, close
friends, aunts or cousins. While this is a useful guideline, it is
perfectly acceptable for any relative, friend or close co-worker to
plan the shower. |
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What
is expected of the host?
Whoever is the host has a very rewarding job
- making the mommy-to-be feel extra special, loved and excited! Beginning
with sending out invitations,
the host will also plan the menu, orchestrate
the games and designate a guest to prepare
a list of gifts received. |
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How
long should the baby shower last?
Showers typically last 2 hours, but they may
of course be shorter or longer, depending on the number of guests,
games and gifts. |
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Can
grandmothers have showers?
Yes, baby showers can also be extended to grandma.
The idea is for grandma’s friends to throw her a shower to celebrate
the arrival of the new granddaughter/grandson. Gifts can be both for
the new mom as well as for grandma (after all, if granny is going
to help out she’ll need a bassinet,
teething
rings, books,
bibs
and burp cloths, diaper
duty, and plenty of brag time.) |
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Are
showers only for firstborns?
Every new baby is a reason to celebrate, so
the age-old idea that only the firstborn should have a shower doesn’t
hold true anymore – especially if the second child is of a different
sex. Of course if the shower for the first baby was fairly recent,
it’s nice to only invite very close friends and people who were
not invited before. |
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What
about showers for adopted babies?
There is no difference for adopted babies, except
that since the new addition may not necessarily be a newborn, it’s
helpful to include the correct clothing
sizes. |
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When
should the shower be held?
Tradition suggests before the baby is born,
during the last two months so that the mother can use the gifts right
away and figure out what else she needs. |
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Can
you have a shower after the baby is born?
Yes, it is perfectly acceptable to throw a shower
post-delivery with goodies for the newborn (plus sometimes baby makes
an early arrival!). Also keep in mind that if friends and family have
to travel far and wide to attend the shower, they’ll probably
want to see the new bundle of joy! |
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How
many guests should be invited?
A comfortable number of guests is anywhere from
5-20 people. This keeps the occasion more intimate and special, but
it’s fine to include more or less. |
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Who
should be invited?
Invitees should include immediate female family,
and friends of both the mother and father-to-be, as well as close
friends of mommy-to-be. It’s best to consult the expectant mom
on the guest list prior to sending out any invitations. |
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Are
men invited to baby showers?
Yes, guests may include men but note that the
shower will in turn take on a wholly different feel. It’s a giddy
get-together with just the gals (the oohing and ahhing tends to reach
particularly high notes!), but cool
couples showers are just as fun. |
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