No Children Allowed

by Gloria
(Seattle, WA)

I am throwing a shower for a friend at work and plan to include everyone however I don't want any children at the party and believe there are a few women who will most certainly bring their kids without asking me if it is okay for them to do so. How do I politely communicate that children are not welcome on the invitation?

Our Answer:

Hi Gloria,

Thanks for your etiquette question. You have 2 choices. You can indescreetly place "Adults Only" or a message indicating that although you love their kids, you ask that guests not bring them to the party. There would be no question in your guests minds whether their children are allowed or not at the party. You might end up losing a few guests to this if they are unable to secure a baby sitter.

Another option is the place "Babysitting provided, if needed. Please R.S.V.P. to use babysitting service." This way, you will know ahead of time those guests who would like to come but need to bring kids. But by asking them to r.s.v.p. you can also have a few babysitters set up in another room to entertain them during the party.

Either descision is perfectly acceptable to use for a baby shower. I have seen both varities on invitations and they both solve your problem.

Good Luck planning the baby shower!