Baby Shower Etiquette is Another Way to Make Your Guests Comfortable

Baby shower etiquette would be rules that govern good behavior at a baby shower, since the dictionary says that the word etiquette is rules that govern socially acceptable behavior in general. I like to think of it as just another way to make my shower guests feel comfortable. Following rules of etiquette helps to avoid embarrassing or uncomfortable situations. Luckily, throwing a baby shower is light and fun, with few rules of baby shower etiquette you should adhere to. Most of it is just good common courtesy and common sense.

Who can host a baby shower?

Back in Grandma’s day, baby shower etiquette would dictate that a family member would never give a baby shower. Since a shower is a gift-giving event, it could look to the gossipy types that the family is asking for presents. Thank goodness, things have relaxed a lot since then. A baby shower can be given by anyone that is close to you, whether it is your mother, sister, relative, friend, or co-worker. The only person inappropriate to throw a shower would be yourself; you should never have a shower for yourself. Just seems tacky somehow, doesn’t it. It’s that common sense thing again.

If you are hosting the shower, the shower is considered your gift to the mother. No other gift should be expected, of course, that’s totally up to you if you want to give more.

Is it proper to have a baby shower for a second or third baby?

Baby shower etiquette aside, I think all would agree that the second or third baby is just as precious as the first baby. Yes, it is perfectly acceptable to have a baby shower for each baby, no matter how many babies you have. If the mother is outfitted well with baby things from the first child, you might think of having a different type of shower, such as one that restocks all supplies (non-tear shampoo, washcloths, powder, etc.), or a pamper-the-mom shower, or casserole shower.

Can I have more than one shower for the same baby?

Of course you can, if you invite a different set of guests. A church member may give you a shower, inviting other members. Co-workers may give you another shower, inviting other co-workers. Even friends can give you more than one shower as long as different guests are invited. But according to baby shower etiquette, if by chance, someone is invited to more than one shower, it should be made clear that no present is expected at the second shower.

How much should be spent on a shower gift?

That depends upon your relationship to the mother and your pocketbook. If you are only a casual friend, neighbor, or co-worker, or if you are limited on funds, ten to twenty dollars is perfectly acceptable. Of course you can feel free to spend more. Usually a very close relative, like the grandmother or aunt spends more in the neighborhood of fifty dollars. But then again, that’s just a ballpark. It’s also quite common for a group of friends or co-workers to combine their money and purchase a big ticket item like a stroller or baby swing. If going that route, be sure to check with the new mom first.

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