Etiquette for How to Write Baby Shower Invitations

Just like your other invitations, abbreviations should be avoided for formal events. The date and time, in particular, should be spelled out. An informal baby shower's format is can be a little looser by adding 'a.m. or p.m.,' the year can be left off entirely, unless it is on New Year's Day. Formal baby shower invitations usually use the full names of the host(s) and expectant parent(s). Informal invitations may use only the first and last names unless all the guests know each other by first names. If there is more than one host, list the names alphabetically. If the shower is being held at the home of one of the hosts, her name appears first followed by the others in alphabetical order.

The address on the invitation is based on how well the guests know each other or if they are from the same area. If you have guests coming from out of town, the city and state should be included, otherwise simply use the street address. Zip codes can be omitted. Maps and directions to the shower location can be printed on the back side, (or front side if there is room), of informal invitations. They can also be included as inserts on more formal invitations.

When hosting large baby showers it is a good idea to use "Regrets only," and with smaller parties to use RSVP by a certain date. These lines should and usually will be at the bottom of the invitation.