who not to invite to your baby shower
Do not invite people who might bring negativity or drama, such as family members with whom you have unresolved conflicts or toxic friends known for causing arguments. Avoid inviting those who could feel uncomfortable or hurt by the event, like individuals dealing with infertility, miscarriage, or other pregnancy-related losses. Skip acquaintances who barely know you or the mother-to-be, as baby showers are best kept intimate. Exclude anyone with a history of inappropriate behavior, such as excessive drinking or making insensitive comments. Also, steer clear of people who might overshadow the occasion, like overly competitive relatives or those who tend to dominate conversations. Finally, consider not inviting anyone who poses a health risk, such as those who are ill, to protect the mother-to-be and guests.
why are guys not allowed at baby showers
Baby showers are traditionally women-only events rooted in cultural and historical norms that view pregnancy, childbirth, and related discussions as primarily female experiences. This allows expectant mothers to share personal stories, advice, and emotions in a comfortable, supportive environment without the presence of men, who might not relate to or feel included in those conversations. However, in modern times, many baby showers have become co-ed, inviting partners, fathers-to-be, and male friends, depending on the couple's preferences and cultural context.
mother in-law baby shower etiquette
Mother-in-law baby shower etiquette involves being supportive and respectful to ensure the event focuses on the mother-to-be. Always RSVP promptly and attend if invited, as your presence is valued but not obligatory. Choose a thoughtful gift that aligns with the couple's registry or needs, such as baby essentials or something personalized, while keeping spending reasonable to avoid outshining others. Avoid dominating conversations or giving unsolicited advice; instead, offer quiet encouragement and compliments. If you're hosting or co-hosting, coordinate with the mother-to-be to respect her preferences on themes, guest lists, and traditions. Maintain positive interactions with family members, steer clear of sensitive topics like parenting styles, and express genuine excitement to foster a warm atmosphere. If conflicts arise, address them privately after the event.
baby shower games
Popular baby shower games include guessing the flavors of blindfolded baby food tastings, where players sample purees and try to identify them. Another is baby bingo, where guests mark cards as gifts are opened that match items like diapers or bottles. Don't say baby challenges players to avoid uttering the word "baby" throughout the event, with penalties like wearing a funny hat for slip-ups. The diaper changing relay involves teams racing to change a doll's diaper as quickly as possible. Price is right for baby items has participants guess the costs of various baby products shown on display. Baby word scramble requires unscrambling jumbled words related to pregnancy and newborns, such as "cbrlai" for "cradle." Additionally, what's in the bag involves feeling and identifying objects inside a bag without looking, like a pacifier or rattle. Pin the pacifier on the baby is a twist on pin the tail on the donkey, using a baby poster. The baby animal game matches baby animals to their parents, like joey to kangaroo. Lastly, the melted candy bar in the diaper game has guests identify crushed candy bars mixed into diapers by sight and touch.
can a mom throw a baby shower for her daughter
Yes, a mom can throw a baby shower for her daughter. Traditionally, baby showers are hosted by friends or family members to celebrate the expectant mother and her upcoming baby, and there's no strict rule against a mother organizing one. However, some etiquette guidelines suggest that immediate family members like a mother might avoid hosting to prevent it from appearing as if they're soliciting gifts. In practice, many families do this without issue, and it's ultimately a matter of personal choice, cultural norms, and the preferences of those involved. If the daughter is comfortable with it, it can be a meaningful way for the mom to show support.
do men attend baby showers
Traditionally, baby showers were primarily women-only events, focused on celebrating the expectant mother with her female friends and family. However, in modern times, many baby showers have become co-ed, allowing men—such as the father-to-be, partners, male relatives, or friends—to attend. This shift depends on cultural norms, the hosts' preferences, and the couple's wishes; for example, some opt for inclusive gatherings with games and gifts for everyone, while others keep it exclusive. Ultimately, attendance is flexible and varies by event.
who pays for a baby shower when it's at a restaurant
The host of the baby shower, such as a close friend or family member, typically pays for the event when it's held at a restaurant. This includes costs like venue rental, food, drinks, and decorations. In some cases, multiple hosts might split the expenses, but it's generally considered poor etiquette for the parents-to-be to cover the costs, as the event is meant to celebrate them. If budget is a concern, hosts can opt for a simpler menu or ask guests to contribute through invitations, though this isn't traditional. Always check with the host or follow local customs for specifics.
who plans a baby shower
Who plans a baby shower? Typically, a close friend, family member, or group of friends of the expectant mother organizes it. Common planners include the sister, best friend, mother of the expectant mother, or even the maid of honor. In some cases, a professional event planner might be hired, but it's usually a personal effort to celebrate the upcoming arrival of the baby.