Is there a way to politely decline a baby shower?

Question

So I’m 6 months with my 3rd, and my in-laws just mentioned that they will be planning my baby shower this summer. I’m not sure if it’s because of cultural differences or what, (they are Mexican) but I’ve always understood baby shower for the first baby, and baby shower for the second only if it’s opposite gender, and then following that, MAYBE a baby sprinkle? I’m honored that they want to be so generous, but to be honest, I’m just not really up for being in the spotlight again. I have anxiety issues, and it’s hard to open gifts in front of everyone, I just don’t love being the center of attention. And to make matters worse, my family from out of town will be there and I’m just not sure if there is a way to decline this? Or would it be a massive faux-pas culturally? I’m just torn. I don’t want to be offensive, but I don’t really want a party. Thoughts?

Answer

You should definitely do what makes you most comfortable. I honestly think with all the struggles going on in the world, people just like an excuse to get together and celebrate to distract from everything. Nothing wrong with it, but also nothing wrong with declining if it makes you uncomfortable.

Answer

I’m the same way as you- very shy and I’m pregnant with my third baby (second girl) and I’m having two baby showers. Because my church wanted to throw me one and my sisters wanted to throw me one. 
It felt a little weird at first but then I just realized that it’s because they love me and my baby and what a precious gift it is to have so many people that already love this baby so much and want to celebrate her. I personally lost my mom in August, so to have all these wonderful people rally around me and my family has been so wonderful. 
You don’t have to open the presents at the shower. Just tell them you want to open the presents at home with just you and your husband. Also- my second baby shower is men and women and just a bbq which I feel like is more fun and takes the pressure off of all the attention on me. Also- it’s totally ok to have a shower for every baby.

Answer

I will be having a baby shower for my third because people want to celebrate my baby. I could also always use more wipes, diapers, and soap. I am not going to turn down free stuff.

Answer

Just tell them that you appreciate the gesture but no need to have a baby shower. Have your partner tell them no and come up with an excuse for you. But if it is a cultural thing or they insist, I’d just accept it and get through it, but that’s just me. Plus, it’s free, new stuff for baby!

Answer

I personally really regretted after not having one for my second as I too have anxiety but with this bean I want them to be celebrated nothing big just close family and friends

Answer

I’m not sure if it’s cultural- in my culture, every baby is celebrated with a baby shower no matter what order they’re born in (I’m not Mexican). And for me, gifts are just a bonus because I can get everything I need on my own. But you could opt out of opening gifts at the baby shower if that would make you more comfortable. Either way, I think having an honest conversation about your feelings should take place.

Answer

Just tell them you don’t want a baby shower due to how you have been feeling and would like to do a registry instead. That way you get all of the things you need mailed to you directly and you know what you’ll need more of.

Answer

I would feel the same way, yes a very nice and generous offer but baby showers takes alot of energy out of you. Any mother would understand if you graciously decline.

Is there a way to politely decline a baby shower?

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