Baby Shower Etiquette - 11 Things You Must Remember

Baby showers are a popularly celebrated tradition by all moms to be in various countries. Baby showers are in addition to giving gifts, also social events. For this reason, a certain amount of etiquette must be observed. Etiquette differs from country to country but here are some common tips.

1. Baby showers must be held sometime prior to the birth of the child, usually one or two months before. But in recent times its even being held one or two months after the birth. Conducting the party before birth of the baby gives the mother time for buying the items that she did not receive as baby shower gifts.
2. According to tradition, a very close friend of the mother-to-be hosts the party. But co-workers and relatives can also be the host of the baby party.
3. Baby showers are for all babies, not just first-borns. There is no harm in throwing baby showers for subsequent babies as a pregnancy is always a joy worth celebrating.
4. It is only expected that the gifts received are gifts for the baby. If the sex of the child is unknown, the gifts can have a neutral color. It is preferred that the gifts chosen are useful and relates to the babies everyday needs like feeding bottles, diapers, baby blankets and bibs.
5. Games are always a nice way to break the ice but they are not necessary. The party should be hosted for good food, drinks and conversation. It would be a good idea to have all the guests write messages and notes to the mom in a book.
6. Normally the number of people invited are around twenty but it mostly depends on the venue and how many people it can accommodate. Usually people invite a small group of people before birth and a larger group after birth.
7. The most convenient time to hold a baby shower is the weekend as most visitors would be free on these days for a few hours, which is how long a baby shower lasts. If everything goes well, the duration may be extended.
8. Food and other expenses is shouldered by the host of the baby party.
9. Usually the venue of the baby shower is the home of the host. The mom-to-be is informed, as pregnant women should not be subjected to surprises.
10. A special invitation need not be printed. The person hosting the party can buy greeting cards and stationary with baby themes from bookstores. Ideally, the invitations should be sent three weeks prior to the party. This gives the guests enough time to RSVP. Also, the directions to the venue must not be forgotten.
11. It is not necessary for the party to have a central theme but having one always adds life to the party. Decorating the venue and wearing costumes creates an atmosphere of joy and celebration.
There should always be someone to welcome the guests on arrival and thank them while leaving. The host is responsible for this and must be present throughout the party and must attend to all the guests.