Baby Shower Guest Etiquette

RSVP on Time

RSVP in a timely manner. Many people these days respond to an invite days before the event. Or, invited guests wait for an email or phone call reminder from the host to remember to RSVP.  This is a form of etiquette that needs to be upheld. Try to respond at least a week from the party date or before the RSVP deadline on the invitation.

Baby Shower Gifts

Honor the gift request. You may think that the couple would love the little rocking chair that your child loved, but what they really need is what they picked out on their registry. And if the couple asks for cash, in the most delicate way possible, give them cash or a check. Don't give a gift card that they can only use at a certain store.

Baby Shower Games

Play along with the shower games! Even if you dread the old "what's in the diaper" game, be a good sport and participate.  The host went to a lot of trouble to plan activities so be courteous and guess what's in the diaper - as gross as it may be.

Kids at the Baby Shower

Don't assume that it's ok to bring your kids. This may be a baby shower, but most of the time it's an "adult only" affair.  Call the party host and ask!

A Note About Gossip

Finally, and this tip comes from actual experience, don't gossip with other guests about any unpleasantness that might be happening with the expectant parents.  I was at a shower one time, talking to a group of women, and one woman said, "I heard he (dad-to-be) cheated on his pregnant wife." The pregnant wife tapped the woman on the shoulder and graciously extended her hand introducing herself to the woman who had stuck her foot in her mouth. Truth!