Sending Baby Shower Invitations To Out Of Town Guests

by Resa
(NC)

My daughter-in-law has requested that I provide a list of my friends/family for a proposed baby shower in her honor. My dilema is that I am new in a city and don't have close friends here. My past friends in another town would be a two hour drive from where the shower will be. Is is appropriate to invite those you know couldn't make the trip? Also, my one and only sister lives a 10 hour drive away in another state. What is the proper thing to do?

Our Answer:

Hi Resa,

When deciding on inviting out of town friends and family you will need to look at a few things. Depending on how close your friendship is to them, they can take the long distance invitation the wrong way. So...how close is your friendship?

Are they close enough friends that you would feel comfortable calling them and asking them if they would like an invitation to the party? Sending invitations to close friends and family can be a wonderful way to help them feel part of the celebration. Some might be able to attend and some may not. But if they are not close enough friends for you to feel comfortable calling them to ask if they would like an invitation, it is probably best that you do not send one to them. The birth announcements can be sent to them once the baby arrives.

I hope that helps. Congratulations on the new grandbaby on the way!