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An Open House Baby Shower
A New Twist on That Special Party for the Mom-to-be
By Renee Roberson
"A pro is that [it] seems like it's a more laid-back atmosphere," says Candice Davis, another mom from Charlotte, N.C. "There's not a ton of attention placed on your shoulders, even though it's your party, and there's not a lot of stress placed on the hostess to come up with activities to be held during the shower."
Open house baby showers may also be easier for guests who are bringing small children, who usually get restless during an event that could typically last two hours or more. "Those guests that have children can bring them and leave when they want to," says Lisa Harrell, a resident of Mint Hill, N.C., who has helped put together numerous "drop-in" showers at her church.
For Davis, the only drawback to the informal atmosphere occurred when it was time to open presents. Because there isn't a specific time to open gifts, the expectant mom may feel obligated to open a person's gift right before they are leaving, which can be a little disruptive.
"I could be in the middle of a conversation with someone, and another guest who was ready to leave wanted me to open their gift before they did," Davis says. "It was kind of rude or me to have to leave my previous conversation to go open a gift, in my opinion."
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An Open House Baby Shower by Anonymous on 09/24/2009 10:40PM
My friend offered to have an open house baby shower for me. I was very hesitant since I had not heard of this before. I decided to research on the internet and found this article. It actually looks like it can be very fun and organized! We decided to have it at my house that way people can see the nursery and I can visit as they come. I think the first baby prob traditional is good, so you have the experience of the games, etc., but since this is my second I am loving this idea. Can't wait!! Thanks for the article!
An Open House Baby Shower by Anonymous on 05/05/2009 10:17AM
I think this is a great idea! My daughter is expecting her first child 2 months, but unfortunately, the baby is going to be born early, we're just not sure exactly when. The open house baby shower will be perfect for her (she is on strict bedrest) and if the baby arrives early, the shower will still work just fine and will be a much more relaxed atmosphere for everyone.
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An Open House Baby Shower by Anonymous on 10/24/2009 05:29AM
I am hosing an open house baby shower tomorrow! The mommy-to-be only wanted one shower, but had 80 people on her guest list. We figured an open house would be less painful for everyone involved, who wants to watch someone open that many gifts?!?? I noted on the invite that the shower is from 1-4pm at the local church's hall, but gift opening would be from 3-4 for the traditional people and family that really wants to see EVERYTHING she gets. We are serving snacky foods and no games will be played. Hopefully it goes well!