Some Frequently Asked Questions About Holding a Baby Shower

A baby shower is one of the best gifts you can possibly give to a dear friend who is about to experience a joyous moment. Whether or not it's for her first baby, having friends and family around to lend their support and express their congratulations is a great way to lift a mother's spirits.

But a baby shower would still call for some etiquette, which could be tricky especially if this will be the first shower you have ever thrown. Even if this is not your first shower, you may still be in the dark about some things. Here, we shall attempt to address some of the questions that people who throw baby showers tend to ask.

1. Should the event be held before or after the delivery?

Most baby showers are held one month before the delivery, but sometimes mothers will elect to have the showers thrown after the baby is born. This way, it will be easier for guests to pick out gifts for the baby, based on the baby's sex. Mothers who are having a hard time during their pregnancy may also wish to hold the shower at a more convenient time.

2. Should men be invited?

If the mother is comfortable with having male friends and family over, why not? Run your guest list by the mother to be sure if she will appreciate the company of the people who are slated to attend. The last thing you will want to do at a baby shower is make the mother uncomfortable!

3. Is it all right to hold a surprise shower?

Motherhood is a sensitive state, so you may wish to be cautious when holding a surprise party for the mother-to-be. There have been cases of successful surprise baby showers, of course, so go with your gut feel. Take into consideration how well you know the mother, as well; this is the best indicator if she will or will not appreciate having a surprise party held in her coming baby's honor.

4. Is it all right for guests to bring gifts for the parents?

Absolutely! Gifts for the mom or dad are not uncommon, and should be quite welcome. You shouldn't begrudge the guests their concern for the couple. It's also a bit tough picking out gifts for a baby who hasn't even been born yet, so some guests may feel more at ease picking out gifts for the people they already know well.

5. Where should the baby shower be held?

Usually baby showers are held in small, comfortable locations, like the home of the new parents. But it will also depend on the parents' wishes, as well as your budget for the event. They may want to keep it within their extended family's household, for example, or hold it at a church fellowship area.