In the history of preparing for little ones, baby sprinkles — which are more low-key baby showers to welcome second (or third, or fourth) babies — are a relatively new phenomenon. So naturally, there are lots of questions about what is acceptable and what might not be.
The key to ababy sprinkle is that, unlike a shower, it doesn’t focus on stocking new parents with everything they need for their baby-to-be. It’s a celebration of a new life — which is always appropriate, whether the baby is the first or the sixth.
With the emphasis placed squarely on the support and love of your closest family and friends rather than a focus on big-ticket gifts, a baby sprinkleis a party that, ideally, is relaxed, warm and laid-back. While there are no hard rules when it comes to baby sprinkle etiquette, here are some tips to help you feel prepared to throw (or attend!) a sprinkle party.
Who hosts a baby sprinkle?
While there are plenty of differences between a baby sprinkle and a baby shower, the host for both events is often a close friend or sibling. The host of your baby sprinkle may be the same person who threw your first shower, or it may be someone different. Of course, anyone may throw you a baby sprinkle, whether it be a co-worker or another relative.
Just like withbaby showers, the host generally organizes all of the details, so you can rest easy and soak up the celebrations rather than worrying about all the ins and outs of planning.
Who should you invite to a baby sprinkle?
While baby showers are typically larger and more involved, baby sprinkles are often intimate and casual, centering around support and encouragement rather than presents and funny games. That's why lots of parents prefer to keep the invitation list small, surrounding themselves with close friends and family rather than a large crowd of loved ones.
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Is it okay to have more than one baby sprinkle?
Yes, it's fine to have more than one sprinkle. If a co-worker and your best friend offer to throw showers, and they’re different groups of friends, it’s perfectly acceptable to accept both invitations. The same goes for sprinkles in honor of baby number three or four— if a loved one offers to organize the celebration, feel free to graciously say yes.
Baby sprinkle etiquette for parents-to-be
While every baby sprinkle is unique to the host and the guest of honor, these etiquette tips may help you feel more prepared:
- Don’t expect someone to throw you a sprinkle. And don’t bring it up to anyone else either — especially not whomever threw your first shower. Leave it to your other close friends or relatives to think of it on their own.
- Register for (smaller) gifts. But step away from the scanning gun! Yes, ababy registry is okay, but it shouldn’t, and won’t need to be, as long as your first list (and it shouldn’t be on the invitation — instead it should be given to guests on an as-requested basis or included on a separate card). Set your sights on everyday essentials, like diapers, wipes, baby wash and the like, plus one or two big ticket items you absolutely need (such as a newinfant car seat or double stroller).
- Don’t forget to thank the host. A batch of homemade cookies or muffins with a handwritten note is inexpensive and sure to be appreciated. If you’re not up to baking (or delivering anything for that matter), you can't go wrong sending a bouquet of flowers.
- Send thank-you notes. Even if few or no gifts were given at your sprinkle, it’s still nice to let people know you appreciated their presence and support. And just in case baby arrives early, prepare the thank you notes in advance and send along with the birth announcement.
Baby sprinkle etiquette for guests
Many guests who attend baby sprinkles opt to bring a gift — but what you offer is totally up to you. If you're not able to make it, it's up to you whether or not you send a gift. Either way, it's a good idea to RSVP so that the host can prepare for the event adequately.
From the What to Expect editorial team andHeidi Murkoff,author ofWhat to Expect When You're Expecting. What to Expect follows strict reporting guidelines and uses only credible sources, such as peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions and highly respected health organizations. Learn how we keep our content accurate and up-to-date by reading ourmedical review and editorial policy.
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FAQs
Baby sprinkle etiquette for guests
Many guests who attend baby sprinkles opt to bring a gift — but what you offer is totally up to you. If you're not able to make it, it's up to you whether or not you send a gift. Either way, it's a good idea to RSVP so that the host can prepare for the event adequately.
How many people should be invited to a sprinkle? ›
Since a sprinkle is a generally casual affair, you can invite as many or as few people as you'd like. Typically, though, a baby sprinkle has a shorter guest list, with only close friends and family invited. Big brother or sister can come to this one, too.
How much do you give for a sprinkle? ›
If you're pondering over the proper amount to spend on a baby sprinkle gift, the unwritten rule hovers around $20 to $50. It's a gentle shower of affection, not the full-on downpour of the first-time baby shower.
What is the etiquette for opening gifts at a baby shower? ›
If she decides to open gifts at the shower, make the process efficient. One person should hand her each gift, another person should take each gift from her after the opening, and one person should keep a list of who gave which item.
Should you do games at a baby sprinkle? ›
Activities and Games: Plan some enjoyable activities and games that involve everyone present. It could be as simple as baby-related trivia or guessing games. 10. Thank You Notes: After the sprinkle, ensure the parents express their gratitude by sending out thank-you notes to all the guests.
Is it OK to throw your own baby sprinkle? ›
While baby sprinkles are traditionally hosted by close family members and friends, Gosselin says it's becoming increasingly common for the parents-to-be to host an event themselves. “It allows them to have more control over the execution and timeline, which is often a big factor,” she explains.
Do you put a registry on a sprinkle invite? ›
Most importantly, baby sprinkle etiquette dictates not to include registry information on your baby sprinkle invitations. Yes, you can (and should) register, and provide the information to guests if they ask for it. But guests shouldn't feel required to bring a gift for the sprinkle, through many will want to.
What time should a baby sprinkle be? ›
When Should I Have A Baby Sprinkle? A baby sprinkle is generally given around the same time as a baby shower. This timeframe is usually 28 to 32 weeks gestation (or 8 to 10 weeks before your due date).
How to ask for gift cards for baby sprinkle? ›
Consider writing, “Your presence is our greatest gift, but if you'd like to contribute, gift cards would be much appreciated.” No matter your approach, you must keep your tone polite and express gratitude. As your loved ones celebrate your special event with you, take time out of their busy schedules.
How much should grandparents spend on a baby shower gift? ›
Average gifts from family members range from $50 to $200. A cousin might spend $50, while a grandma or close Aunt might aim for a higher priced gift. If it's a really close friend, your budget might hover around $100.
Most often, the host pays for the baby shower. This is not always one person. For example, several aunts and cousins might cover the full tab of a shower at a restaurant, or a group of coworkers may help coordinate all the decorations, food and fun.
Is it rude to go to a baby shower without a gift? ›
Never show up to a baby shower without a gift in hand! That being said, you're not required to buy a gift from the registry.
What is an acceptable baby shower gift? ›
For coworkers or acquaintances, people tend to spend around $30 to $50. For friends or distant relatives, many people spend between $50 and $100. For close friends or family members, most people spend between $100 and $200 or more.
Do you bring a gift to a sprinkle? ›
The biggest question I receive about Sprinkles is : Should guests bring presents? Generally, the answer is no or something small. Now some pregnant moms will retort, “But my friends really want to bring me a gift.” That may be true, and they might bring one, but the event itself shouldn't be regarded as another shower.
What do you wear to a baby sprinkle? ›
There are no set rules for baby shower outfits, so unless the invite says otherwise, you're basically free to wear whatever you fancy and feel the most comfortable in. You'll still want to find out where the 'do will be taking place, though, as some venues will automatically require you to be a bit more put-together.
Who attends a baby sprinkle? ›
Who Typically Attends? Since a sprinkle is a more low-key affair than a shower, it's typically a smaller gathering of only family and close friends. Some moms-to-be opt for a kid-friendly party, since they already have the new baby's older sibling at home.
Do you do a registry for a sprinkle? ›
If you're on your second (or later) baby and planning on holding a baby sprinkle, you may be wondering if it's appropriate to set up a registry. In a word: Yes! It's perfectly acceptable to register for your sprinkle. In fact, it makes things easier for friends and family who want to offer a token gift.
