Baby Shower Invitations: Wording, Timing and Etiquette
Send baby shower invitations 4 to 6 weeks before the shower, which is usually held 4 to 8 weeks before the due date. Include the parent-to-be's name, the host, the date, time and location, RSVP details, and registry information if you have one; registry details are acceptable on a baby shower invitation.
What to Include on a Baby Shower Invitation
- Who the shower is for – the parent-to-be, or both parents for a co-ed shower.
- Who is hosting – for example “Hosted by Jenna and Laura”.
- Date, time and location – include an end time if you are hosting at home.
- RSVP – the host's contact details and a reply-by date.
- Registry – a short line or a link, if the parents have one.
- Theme or activities – a book-for-the-library request, a nappy raffle, or a dress code.
When to Hold the Shower and Send Invitations
- The shower: usually 4 to 8 weeks before the due date, when the parent-to-be is still comfortable but the nursery is coming together.
- Invitations: 4 to 6 weeks before the shower.
- RSVP deadline: about 1 week before, so the host can plan food and seating.
- Twins or a higher-risk pregnancy: consider holding the shower earlier, as twins often arrive early.
Who Hosts a Baby Shower?
Traditionally a close friend, sibling or relative hosts, rather than the parents-to-be themselves. Today it is common and perfectly acceptable for a parent, grandparent-to-be or the couple to host. The invitation should name whoever is organising and taking replies.
Baby Shower Invitation Wording Examples
Classic
Please join us for a baby shower honouring Emily Carter
Saturday, April 17 · 1–4 pm
at the home of Jenna Brooks
RSVP to Jenna by April 10
Girl / boy / surprise
- “A little lady is on the way! Join us for a shower honouring Emily.”
- “Oh boy! Please join us to celebrate Sam and baby boy Carter.”
- “Boy or girl, we can't wait to meet them! Join us for a shower for Emily.”
Co-ed shower
“Baby Q is almost here! Join us for a backyard barbecue in honour of Emily and Sam.”
Sprinkle (second or later baby)
“Let's sprinkle Emily with love! Join us for a relaxed afternoon celebrating baby number two.”
Virtual shower
“Join us online to shower Emily with love! Sunday, April 18, 3 pm. The video link will be sent with your RSVP.”
Registry and Gift Wording
Unlike wedding invitations, baby shower invitations can include registry details, because gifts are the purpose of a shower. Keep it brief:
- “Emily is registered at [store or website].”
- “Instead of a card, please bring your favourite children's book with a note inside.”
- “Nappy raffle: bring a pack of nappies (any size) for a chance to win a prize!”
Designing and Sending Your Invitations
Choose a baby shower template, add your wording and check that the names and date read clearly at small sizes. Download a PNG if you are sharing it by message or email, or a print-ready PDF if you are mailing printed cards. For printing tips, see our home printing guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should baby shower invitations be sent?
Four to six weeks before the shower. The shower itself is usually held four to eight weeks before the due date.
Is it okay to include registry information on a baby shower invitation?
Yes. Unlike wedding invitations, a baby shower invitation can include a short registry line or link, because gift-giving is part of the event.
Who should host a baby shower?
Traditionally a close friend or relative hosts. Today it is also common for a parent, a grandparent-to-be or the parents-to-be themselves to host.
What is a baby sprinkle?
A sprinkle is a smaller, more relaxed shower for a second or later baby, often focused on essentials such as nappies rather than a full registry.