Baby Announcements

After you have ordered your custom printed birth announcements, it’s time to start thinking about adding an individual note and getting them in the envelope, addressed and mailed. So what is the protocol for writing on birth announcements? What should you write?

Well first of all, it’s important to realize that writing nothing by hand on your printed birth announcements is not wrong. A lot of people just send them out as is with a handwritten address on the envelope. Some people print address labels from a list they created on their pc. None of this is rude and is perfectly acceptable.  Hand written notes on announcements is just a personal touch a lot of people like to do, sort of a finishing touch.

For close relatives, at least a paragraph of handwritten words is appropriate on the back or the inside of the birth announcement (depending on type). Use the new titles such as Auntie or Grandma in your note and be sure to express your happiness as you count on theirs. Finish with the signature of both parents (no writing the hubby’s for him-his mother knows his handwriting).

For distance relatives or acquaintances, go with a basic handwritten signature for your birth announcement.  It’s just enough to let them know you took a little more time with it than just sticking the announcement in an envelope but not too much that they feel obligated to reply or show up when you are trying to finally get some sleep.

When it comes to the extra birth announcements you had printed for the mailman or your co-workers you could get away with no handwritten message at all. It wouldn’t be expected and if you don’t have the time (or just want to get them in the mail before your six week time limit) don’t worry about it. In many cases they will just be happy to have made it onto your list. Everyone enjoys being a part of the birth celebration.

Birth announcements are multifaceted. They can act as a personal correspondence to your parents and a token of appreciation for good service. Above all they announce the birth of your child and making them as personal as possible will be worth it in the end.

Filed under: birth announcements on August 21st, 2010