Who should I invite?

by karen
(Orange County, California)

I have some friends and family that live far away in other states. I really doubt that they will make it to my baby shower unless they are able to coordinate it with a trip that they were already planning on making.

Should I send them an invitation or would they take it as if I were just trying to get them to send a gift?

Thank you

Our Answer:

Hi Karen. Thanks for your etiquette question. When you send out invitations to friends and family that live far away, it is a very considerate guesture. It gives them the chance to show up or join in on the celebration and most likely will not be looked upon as a money grab.

On the flip side, some of them might be planning a trip to the area and would love to drop in if the dates match.

Side note: I have made this mistake myself, only to find out my friend who lived a few states away happened to be in town and would of come to the shower if she had known about it.

The rule that I like to go by is if you feel comfortable calling them to ask if they would like an invitation, then they are probably close enough friends to send it to. People you rarely are in contact with should get a birth announcement instead.

I hope this helps! Good Luck With Your Baby Shower!