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Planning a baby shower is one of the most exciting and heartfelt moments leading up to the arrival of a new baby. From choosing the perfect theme and decor to finalizing the guest list and menu, every detail matters. But one question that often puzzles hosts and parents-to-be is this: When to Send Baby Shower Invites?
Timing is everything when it comes to organizing a baby shower. Send the invites too early, and guests may forget; send them too late, and they might not have time to RSVP or prepare a gift. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive deep into the perfect timeline, invitation etiquette, planning tips, and modern trends.
You should send baby shower invitations 4 to 6 weeks before the event.
This window ensures guests have enough time to RSVP, purchase a gift, and make arrangements. However, the exact timing depends on several factors like location, type of invite (digital or printed), and how formal the event is.
Let’s break down what should happen and when, from early pregnancy to delivery:
| Pregnancy Month | What Happens | Baby Shower Planning Stage |
|---|---|---|
| Months 1–4 | Early pregnancy, usually kept private | No planning yet |
| Months 5–6 | Gender reveals, registry setup begins | Start initial baby shower planning |
| Month 7 | Ideal month for baby showers | Finalize guest list & send invites |
| Month 8 | Some showers happen now (for later preemies) | RSVP follow-up & confirm plans |
| Month 9 | Usually avoided for showers | Send thank-you notes or host virtual options |
Note: Most baby showers happen in the third trimester (weeks 28–34).
If you’re inviting people who live far away or internationally, send invites 6–8 weeks ahead to allow for travel plans.
If the baby shower is around holidays or peak vacation times, give extra buffer—send invites 7–8 weeks ahead.
A baby shower invite should be informative, clear, and warm. Always include the following:
Example:
Please join us for a baby shower honoring Sarah Thompson
Saturday, August 12, 2025 • 2:00–5:00 PM
123 Bloom Lane, New York, NY
Hosted by Emily Johnson
RSVP by July 25: 555-123-4567
Registered at BabyList and Amazon
If using printed invites, plan your ordering process:
Use websites like:
Set the RSVP deadline 1 to 2 weeks before the shower. This gives the host enough time to:
Make sure the RSVP deadline is visible and easy to respond to (online or via phone).
Before locking in a date, do a quick poll with key guests (e.g., grandparents, close friends) to ensure availability.
If your shower falls near a holiday or includes many out-of-town guests, send a “save the date” 2–3 months in advance.
Make sure the gift registry is live and functioning before including it in the invite.
Platforms like Paperless Post, Evite, or Greenvelope track RSVPs for you and even send reminders.
Typos can be embarrassing — double-check names, dates, addresses, and contact details before finalizing.
Traditionally, the invite list includes:
Be sure to align the list with the guest of honor’s comfort and cultural norms. Always ask if they prefer a more intimate or larger gathering.
| Task | Ideal Timeframe |
|---|---|
| Choose shower date | 10–12 weeks before |
| Confirm venue | 8–10 weeks before |
| Finalize guest list | 6–8 weeks before |
| Design/order invites | 7 weeks before |
| Send invites | 6 weeks before |
| RSVP deadline | 1–2 weeks before |
| Final planning (food, games) | 1 week before |
Yes. It can make it hard for guests to RSVP or plan. Stick to at least 4 weeks before the event, or 6 weeks if mailed.
For casual or virtual showers, yes. But for traditional or formal settings, it’s best to send proper digital or printed invites.
Yes, especially if many guests are traveling or it’s around the holidays. Just make sure to send a reminder closer to the date.
Most showers take place between 28 and 34 weeks of pregnancy — late enough for bump photos, early enough to avoid labor surprises.
Sending baby shower invitations is more than just picking a date and mailing cards — it’s about creating a meaningful and smooth experience for everyone involved. By sending invites 4 to 6 weeks ahead, you ensure that guests have ample time to celebrate the upcoming arrival in style and without stress.
Always factor in location, invite format, event type, and guest preferences. When in doubt, plan earlier and give your guests a little more notice — especially in today’s busy world.
