Hostess
Etiquette
Who Hosts the
Party?
Traditionally, the
host of a baby shower would be a close friend of the mom-to-be. Now, just about
anyone can host the party. Mothers, co-workers, friends, sisters, cousins and so
on.
When should we
have the party?
Baby showers are normally given anywhere between the seventh and ninth month.
You don't want to have the party too close to the due date just in case she
delivers earlier than expected. But, at the same time, its fun when she has a
large belly at the party, so don't host it too early. Check with the mom to see
what works for her.
Where should
it be held?
Most baby showers
are held in someone's home. But, restaurants, churches, and parks can all be
nice places to hold the party. It depends on your budget and how comfortable you
feel having the party in your home.
Here is a
guideline on the do's and don'ts of hosting a baby shower party. Simply keep your guest's
comfort in mind. Be organized and plan ahead for a successful party.
Do's:
- Send
invitations in a timely manner, 3 - 4 weeks prior to the baby shower. Always give enough time for guests to RSVP.
- Include
directions to the party in the invitations.
- Greet all
guests at the door as they arrive.
- Provide name
tags if you have a large attendance of people who might not know each other.
- Introduce
guests to one another at the beginning of the party. If you have a seating
arrangement, sit people together who know each other or have something in
common.
- Provide tables
for your guests to sit and eat if a meal is planned. Placecards are a
good idea. Please don't expect
them to eat with their plate in their lap.
- Have
centerpieces such as flowers or gift baskets for decorations.
- Bring the
gifts to the mom-to-be as she opens the gifts. She shouldn't have to carry
anything - especially anything heavy.
- Write down
which guest gave a certain gift. This will help the mom-to-be when it comes
time to send thank you cards.
- Be sure to
have enough party favors on hand. A little extra is good just in case!
- Get the party
started on time and keep events moving at a good pace. You would be
surprised just how long it can take to eat, open presents, play games, talk
and eat cake.
- Plan a few
baby shower games. Consider using printable baby shower games to
personalize your party.
- Walk guests to
the door as they leave.
Don'ts:
- "Attend"
the party - meaning: you should run the party, not sit back and relax.
- Eat before
your guests do. Serve the mom-to-be first, then guests, then yourself.
- Don't leave
the baby shower party first. It's just plain rude.
- Don't exclude
inviting guests that the mom-to-be wishes would be there.
- Don't forget to
thank guests for coming as they leave.
_______________________________________________
Written by Audrey
Cowan, party planner and proud mom of two children. Visit MommyParty.com,
online baby showers and resources.
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