What is a Baby Shower?

A baby shower is a party in which expectant parents receive gifts or money for their expected child. It is a recent tradition in the US and in other cultures/countries influenced by US culture or media.

Who should host the baby shower?
Traditionally, only non-relatives are to host a baby shower -- co-workers, church groups, etc.; however, it has become more common and acceptable for mothers and sisters to host showers too. And why not? The important thing is that someone take the initiative to host the shower -- what a wonderful display of caring for a growing family and a special way to help welcome a new life into the world. Really, the only one who absolutely should not host a shower is the expecting mom herself!

It is also perfectly acceptable for more than one person to host a baby shower. It can be fun for a group of friends to share the responsibilities and excitement of planning and hosting this special event.

Who do I invite? How should I invite the guests?
You likely have some idea of those you want to invite to the shower, but it is always a safe bet to run the guest list by the mom-to-be to ensure you haven't left anyone out. If the shower is not for a firstborn, you may want to invite only those close to the mom-to-be or those who have not attended previous showers.

You can invite guests via a phone call or an e-mail (be sure they check their mail regularly!), but the written invitation is still the most preferable way to kick off a shower. Written invitations are a great opportunity to set the tone for the party -- and also a handy reminder for the guests to keep on their bulletin boards! You can purchase pre-printed invitations at card shops or stationery stores. If you're really feeling creative, make the invitations by hand! This allows you to incorporate your theme into the invitation itself.

No matter what type of invitation you use, be sure to include pertinent information -- whether it regards a theme, a note of where the mom-to-be has registered, a map or written directions to the shower, or any special item you want the guests to bring for the mom.

Click to find an Event Coordinator
Click to find Party Supplies