Baby shower invitations: who to invite, what to include and when to send

A baby shower is one of the warmest events you can host. The invitation sets the tone: relaxed or elegant, a small afternoon tea or a big family celebration. Here is how to get it right.

Who hosts, and who is invited?

Traditionally a close friend or family member hosts, but today many parents-to-be host their own shower, and that is perfectly fine. Before you invite anyone, agree with the parents on:

• The size: close friends only, or family, colleagues and neighbours too
• Mixed or not: many showers now include partners and friends of every gender
• Children: welcome, or an adults-only afternoon

A good rule: only invite people who are also likely to be close to the family after the baby arrives.

When to send it

Most showers happen four to eight weeks before the due date, when the parent-to-be still feels comfortable and the nursery is not finished yet. Send invitations four to six weeks before the shower. If the baby might arrive early, add a line saying the plan may change and that you will message everyone if it does. With a digital invitation, updating the date is one edit.

What to include

1. Who the shower is for ("Celebrating Aisha and baby Khan")
2. Date, start and end time
3. Venue with a map link and parking notes
4. The theme or dress code, if any
5. Gift and registry details
6. RSVP deadline, one to two weeks before the shower

About gifts and registries

It is now normal to include a registry link, but keep it gentle:

If you would like to bring a gift, Aisha and Omar have a small list here. Your company is the best present.

For a second or third baby, a "sprinkle" with nappies or a meal train instead of gifts is a lovely idea. Say so on the invitation.

Wording ideas

Oh baby! Please join us for a shower honouring Aisha. Saturday 3 May, 1 to 4 pm, at Sara's home.

A little one is on the way. Join us for tea, cake and baby games to celebrate Emma and Tom.

Boy or girl? Come find out with us at a gender reveal garden party.

Games, food and the day itself

Ask guests on the reply form if they have dietary needs, and use the guest list to plan quantities. Keep games optional and short. If some guests can't travel, share the invitation link with a video call for the gift opening.

After the shower

Collect who gave what as gifts are opened, so thank-you notes are easy later. A digital guest list with a notes column saves a lot of scribbling.

Find a design you love in our baby shower invitation templates.