Baby Shower Etiquette

Question

Now that I'm almost at the halfway point I've been thinking more and more about my baby shower(s).  I know the girls at work are going to have one for me and I would really like for my MIL to have one for family and friends.  When is the appropriate time to have the shower - how far along?

Is there anything I should be aware of, from those of you who have had showers before?  Are there any good websites to check out for safety ratings for items?  I plan to register at Babies R Us and Target.

We are going to find out the sex, but we are in desperate need of anything but clothes.  We really need people to help us out with all of the big stuff.  Any suggestions on that one?  I don't plan to register for clothes, but I know that's the most popular (and cutest) item to buy.

amandamae1126 · Accepted Answer

I just found out im preggo myself and haven't done my baby shwoer yet (not even close)! But, I've been the host of 25+ baby showers so far. As far as friends go, it's not really popular to ask for the big items. I would definetly register for them though. I know it is common for office people to get together and get one big gift. Another option is to ask ONLY certain family members if they would like to get you a certain item. But if you decide to do this, be cautios of 1) their potential budget, 2) how close they are you to, 3) probably not a good idea to "assign" items to DH side of the family, and 4) some people might get offended. Just be careful about it. Finally, the best practice is usually to accept the gifts you get graciously. Many people will include a gift reciept and you can return some of the items and put it towards the larger items you need. Many people DO get clothes as it is the funnest and cutest items to shop for.

If you are financially worried about the larger ticket items (crib, stroller, bouncer) you can visit a retail store like Once Upon a Child and get them for a discount price. Perhaps one of the best tactics is to go shopping with YOUR MOM! Grandmas tend to LOVE to shop for their grandbabies, especially if this is your first.

Also keep in mind that some people will simply give you a gift card and allow you to shop on your own to get the last minute items you need.

Hope that helps!

bam1014 · Answer

Thanks so much for the advice AmandaMae!!  I giggle a little because my family is a little backwards then most.  My mother wants nothing to do with me (dispute over religion) and my MIL adores me.  In fact my MIL has already bought our crib and dresser/changing table!  So I'll just switch around your advice a little and insert in-laws where you say family - LOL

pol79princess · Answer

I'm having one at the end of oct and my due date is Jan 6. I don't want to do it too early to Xmas b/c then people have a lot of expenses of their own. Don't really expect anyone to get u big items like stroller or carseat, that's gonna have to be your expense. Just invite as many people as you can to get the most out of it lol ;)

Baby Shower Etiquette

You are reading content posted in the Pregnancy: Jan 2011 Babies Community