Occasion Information

Traditionally, what information does a Birth Announcement include?
Birth announcements are decorative cards that announce a baby's birth and list statistics such birth date, time, weight, and length. Parents and sibling (if applicable) names are also included on the card. Photo birth announcements (or including a photo of your little one with your announcement) are recommended for those recipients who will not have an opportunity to see baby shortly after arrival.

Why is it important to send a printed Birth Announcement?
A Birth Announcement is your best avenue for introducing your newcomer to his or her network of family and friends and also allows you to share your happiness with all those who have been important to you and the life of your growing family.

Is an E-Mailed Birth Announcement acceptable?
Etiquette experts agree that an informal E-Mailed notification of baby's arrival is o.k. to get the word out, but only when followed up with a printed or handwritten announcement.

To whom should Birth Announcement Cards be sent?
All family members, close and new friends, neighbors, and business associates should be included. Don't forget to send the your Obstetrician an announcement, as well as any other birth involved participants such as Doulas, Nurses, Birthing Class Instructors etc... Anyone who played an important role in your child's arrival to this world. Traditionally, many newlyweds use their wedding invitation list to seed their birth announcement list.

When should Birth Announcements be sent?
Ideally, printed or handwritten birth announcements should be sent before the baby is three months old. Non-photo announcements are generally sent earlier than photo birth announcements. Remember, though, it's never too late! Friends, family, and associates will always appreciate you sharing your happy news!

I'm worried that recipients will feel obligated to send a gift, even when they've already given a shower gift!
Don't worry! Most friends and family who participated in your shower will not feel an obligation to send another gift after receiving the birth announcement. Recipients of baby announcements traditionally respond with a handwritten note or a phone call congratulating the new parents.

With twins, do most parents send separate announcements or combine into one announcement.
Almost all parents of twins choose to send one birth announcement, announcing both babies. Some parents choose to list the birth date only once while still including separate stats for each baby. Some parents choose to omit stats to minimize text on the announcement while others include it all!

What if baby is in the hospital for an extended period of time after birth?
If baby's health is stable but must remain in the hospital, it is perfectly acceptable to send out birth announcements before baby has arrived home. It is equally acceptable to wait until baby has arrived home. Some parents who wait like to include not only the birth stats, but also the "arrived home" stats.

What should be included on the signature line?
The signature line usually includes parent and sibling names. (i.e. Proud Parents Bob & Sue Smith; Bob, Sue and Josh Smith). Parents with different last names can include their first and last names. In this instance, it is important to include baby's full legal name. If parents are sending to only very close family and friends, they may wish to leave their last names off of the announcement but still include baby's full name. Sibling names, if any, are sometimes preceded by "Big Brother" or "Big Sister". Be sure not to exclude step-siblings, or adult siblings.

What should be included on the signature line for single parents sending out birth announcements?
Single parents can reference just themselves (i.e. Proud Mommy Jennifer Morton), or both parents (i.e. Proud Mommy Jennifer Morton and Father Trent Smith), or include anyone that is going to be involved in helping raise baby (i.e. Proud Mommy Jennifer Morton and Grandparents John & Sylvia). Just be sure to include baby's full name on this announcement leaving no guess work for the recipients.

What should be included on the signature line for same-sex parents sending out birth announcements?
Gay and lesbian couples should include both of their first and last names (i.e. Janet Smith & Kristen Maxwell). Be sure to refer to the full legal name of the baby in the birth announcement.

What should be included on the signature line from a mother that becomes widowed during her pregnancy?
Such a joyous and sad occasion and we hope this advise is rarely needed. Traditionally, the new Mom should indicate her name as either "Mrs. Thomas Peterson" or "Betty Peterson." Her husband may be referred to as "the late Thomas Peterson," if desired, or she may want to include her name only.