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The Do's and Don'ts of Baby Shower Etiquette

Updated: Apr 19


Welcome to TotTroveTown, your friendly neighborhood guide to parenting, pregnancy, and all the precious moments in between. Today, we're diving into a topic that excites almost every expectant parent and their close circle: baby showers. Whether you're hosting, attending, or the guest of honor, navigating baby shower etiquette can feel like walking through a minefield of social norms and expectations. But fear not! We're here to guide you through the do's and don'ts of baby shower etiquette, ensuring a joyful, memorable event for everyone involved.


Diverse group of friends and family at a joyous baby shower surrounding expectant mother with gifts and decorations, conveying love and anticipation.
Baby Shower

The Do's of Baby Shower Etiquette


  1. Do Send Invitations Early: Aim to send out invitations 4-6 weeks in advance. This gives guests enough time to RSVP and look for the perfect gift. Digital invitations are perfectly acceptable and eco-friendly!

  2. Do Consider the Expectant Parent's Preferences: Some parents-to-be may prefer a co-ed shower or a more modern celebration. The key is to honor their wishes, making the event as personalized and comfortable for them as possible.

  3. Do Plan Games and Activities: Engaging activities can break the ice and make the event fun. Opt for inclusive games that encourage participation and laughter, but always consider the comfort level of your guest of honor.

  4. Do Provide a Variety of Food Options: Cater to different dietary needs and preferences. Finger foods, a selection of teas, and non-alcoholic punch are always hits.

  5. Do Set Up a Gift Registry: This is incredibly helpful for guests and ensures the parents-to-be receive items they actually need. Include a range of options across different price points.


The Don'ts of Baby Shower Etiquette


  1. Don't Surprise the Expectant Parent Without Their Consent: While surprise parties can be thrilling, it's crucial to ensure the guest of honor is up for it. Pregnancy can be unpredictable, and it's always best to err on the side of caution.

  2. Don't Forget to Consider Timing: Hosting the shower too early or too late in the pregnancy can be inconvenient or uncomfortable for the expectant parent. Aim for the sweet spot: typically when the pregnancy is visibly noticeable but the parent-to-be is still feeling energetic, around the end of the second trimester or early third.

  3. Don't Make It Entirely About Gifts: While gifts are a traditional part of baby showers, emphasize celebrating the new life and supporting the parents-to-be. Creative expressions of love, such as personal notes or advice for the parents, add a meaningful touch.

  4. Don't Overdo It With Alcohol: If you choose to include alcohol, also provide plenty of non-alcoholic options. Remember, the focus should be on inclusivity and celebration, not the drink menu.

  5. Don't Pressure Guests to Spend a Lot: Encourage gifts of all sizes and sentiments. Handmade presents or contributions towards a larger group gift can be just as cherished.


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Conclusion


Baby showers are a beautiful tradition meant to celebrate the upcoming arrival of a new life and support the expectant parents. By following these do's and don'ts, you can ensure the event is enjoyable, stress-free, and filled with love and laughter. Remember, the heart of baby shower etiquette lies in empathy, respect, and thoughtfulness towards the guest of honor and all attendees.


Stay tuned to TotTroveTown for more insightful guides on navigating the wonderful world of parenting and pregnancy. Here's to creating beautiful memories together!



Remember, these guidelines are for informational purposes only and are meant to enhance your baby shower experience. Always prioritize the happiness and comfort of the expectant parents and their unique preferences.

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