Baby Shower Etiquette Tips for 2021

Traditionally, baby showers were held for first-time parents who were getting started and needed everything from diapers to draperies for their newborn. Large ticket items were reserved for close family members wanting to help their young adult children set up a happy and safe environment for their soon to be grandbaby or great niece or nephew. Today, first-time parents are generally financially secure, well established and can easily pay for their own baby items. Still, it’s a time for friends and family to get together and celebrate the upcoming arrival of the new bundle of joy. Registries make it easy to select an item that fits a guest’s personal budget.

Of course, in the midst of a pandemic, a large gathering is not advisable, but the questions continue to emerge so here are some tips on baby shower etiquette – pre and post Covid-19 and somewhere in between.

Baby Shower Etiquette Tips for 2021

Baby Number One

People almost always welcome their first baby with a shower. When it comes to throwing a party for the second, third and fourth arrival, the decision becomes more difficult. By this time the parents usually have an abundance of clothes, toys, books and knick-knacks. However, much like birthdays and other special events, it’s a reason to gather with people you love and celebrate the occasion.

Host Etiquette

A baby shower should not be hosted by the parents or a member of the immediate family, such as mom or mom in law. Friends and siblings can join together to host a shower. And certainly anyone may discreetly contribute financially or offer the use of their home or facility. Translated: Mom can offer to help without her name on the invitation!

Multiple Baby Showers

If you have more than one shower, DO NOT invite the same people. Coworkers and clients may want to show their support by doing something special, but avoid asking the same group to the shower with family and friends.

Gift Giving Etiquette

Whether it’s a second or a fifth shower, an invitation requires a gift. Unless otherwise requested (no gifts please), a gift is always mandatory. Like a birthday party, a gift is a traditional gesture and registry information will be an excellent guide to what the baby will need.

Guest List Options

It’s okay to include dads and kids in a baby shower. Take the wishes of the mom-to-be into consideration and invite accordingly. The guest of honor may also have input on the types of party games, foods being served, cake and shower theme.

Pandemic Caution

Social distance is still very much in play when it comes to hosting a shower. Following all of the guidelines to keep your guests safe. Keep the gathering small, within your own pod, outside seating, well ventilated inside, mask requirements, and all other considerations during this time frame. Ultimately, a virtual event is the best option for the time being.

Drinks and Libations

Liquor does not have to be a part of the soiree. Offering both mocktails and cocktails is a good idea and water and soda should always be available options.

Opening Gifts and Thank You Notes

The guest of honor does not have to open all of the gifts in front of the guests. You can opt to open them later and just enjoy the conversation.

Thank you notes are a requirement. You can send them via email, snail mail but not by text. Follow the lead of the invitation. If you invited guests by mail, send a thank you through USPS. While handwritten is always best, you can acknowledge Paperless posts via email using their app.

You may also like How to Genuinely Connect In This Social Distanced Digital World. For more of Diane’s etiquette tips read her posts on Inc., subscribe to her articles on The Huffington Post, “like” The Protocol School of Texas on Facebook, and follow her on Pinterest,  Instagram and Twitter.