How to Choose Baby Shower Invitations
Posted 09/09/09
Have a new baby on the way, huh? For expecting mothers, baby showers are a tradition. Invitations are sent out to friends and family, typically only other women, and they come bearing gifts for the baby. This is how many generations of American mothers have started out with a new set of clothes and toys for a new baby, especially if it is their first one. Showers are celebrations as well as a way to help out new mothers.Baby showers can differ in many ways. Jewish culture, for example, has baby celebrations after the birth. One new trend is to hold a baby shower for the father, although this is still rare. More common is to allow men to attend a baby shower, traditionally a women only event. For new grandmothers, a "grandma shower" is even sometimes held.
An important part of baby showers is to send out invitations. First, invitations must be purchased. Consider the fact that baby showers can be held in many different ways. Some may require invitations for guests that differ from tradition, which may be harder to find. That said, being able to purchase baby shower invitations where many options are available is best. Try an online store, which is an obvious best choice. Choose a set of baby invitations that has an appropriate theme, whether that is a gender specific card type, religious, or funny. The mother's taste matters a lot in this area. Try finding invitations that have blank spaces as opposed to having words already printed on them.
The other step in baby shower planning, once the invitations are bought, is to figure out who will be attending. In modern times, anyone may be receive invitations. Think of which people know the mother well enough to purchase things appropriate for the family's needs and values. Also know that invitations sent to people who do not know the mother are likely to be considered a bit rude. On the other hand, not only those very close to the mother may be sent invitations. It is advantageous to be on friendly terms with a neighbor for many reasons, and a baby shower is great way to start a new relationship with them. Inviting coworkers is also good way to foster a team spirit back at the office, at least amongst the girls. But as always, invitations to baby showers should go out to those people the mother feels comfortable sending them to... there is nothing wrong with having a small, more intimate get together.
Sites Consulted
Birth announcements ... Christmas birth ...