Duration of a Baby Shower

lhuang

Hi Ladies...I just wanted to know how long a baby shower should last.  Would 2 hours be too short?  My good friend is offering to throw me one, but I'm not big into the games. 

EastCoastBride

If it's a small shower, I think 2 hours is plausible. But realistically, I always figure on 3 hours. The first 1/2 hour is often mingling, waiting for people to show up, etc. Depending on how the food is done (do people start eating right away, or is food being served at a specific time), that can eat up some time.

The gift opening doesn't have to take terribly long if you're relatively efficient in opening, thanking, and moving on.  But still - I allott about 45 mins for the gift opening. 

Even w/o games - 2 hours could be tight if you're looking at a good number of guests (like 20 or more).

holymolymatrimony

Even without games, 2 hours would fly by!  The last couple baby showers we've been to, takes forever just to get through the presents! lol

Typically Im there 3-4 hours, etc...

nooniesgal

I personally would put 2 hours on the invite and then if people dwindle than that is ok. 

lhuang

Thank you all.  Your responses were very helpful. 

grinsandgiggles

You sound like you don't even want this shower...be grateful.

I wouldn't put a time duration on the invite.  Most don't.  People know (for the most part anyways) that these things don't have a set time except for the start time.  We just put "Time:  1:00 pm" on my invitation. 

I've been to one that was 5 hours, but most the ones I've been to are about 3.  She invited like 80 guests and was opening presents for quite a while.  So open the presents quickly, but not to the point where it's rude.

I would only do one or two games, most people hate them and just want to get on their way.  Baby Bingo is done while opening presents, so that's a time saver.

northtamarack

grinsandgiggles:

I wouldn't put a time duration on the invite.  Most don't.  People know (for the most part anyways) that these things don't have a set time except for the start time.  We just put "Time:  1:00 pm" on my invitation. 

This.  I have yet been invited to a shower that had a time frame.

lhuang

Actually, I am grateful that my friend offered. I was getting worried that no one was going to offer. I asked the question because this is all new to me and I wanted some feedback from other mothers or soon-to-be. I appreciate everyone's responses. Thanks again.