<<< back to main resources listing Birth Announcement Etiquette .......................................................................................................................................... Photo birth announcements are the perfect way to let your friends, family and co-workers know about the birth of your child. Although the electronic age has taken over most aspects of our lives, the time honored tradition of sending an announcement in the mail is still the classiest way to announce a birth. Let's face it--we all love to look at the collection of cards and photos strewn on each other's refrigerators and mantels. Below are a few questions and answers to make sending out yours easy and fun. Choosing a Birth Announcement Traditionally, gender determined the colors of your design: blue for boy birth announcements and pink for girl birth announcements. Although these palettes are still popular and look adorable, these days anything goes. The trend in baby announcements is to send a card that reflects YOUR taste! Take a moment to think about what you like: bold colors, modern lines, polka dots? Remember, the card is from you, and should be a reflection of your own individuality and personality. (Feeling unique? Try this design for a girl, or this design for a boy) When to Send Birth Announcements Many sites will tell you 'as soon as possible!' and that school of thought still partially holds true. However, with photo birth announcements, feel free to send any time within the first six months. Having a newborn can be---IS---tiring and stressful, and photo shoots are the last thing on parents' minds. Within a few weeks, time becomes more manageable and your baby becomes a bit more cooperative with expressions. Don't think you're not "on the ball" if you can't get them out right away. Your friends and family will be so happy to see your baby's adorable face at 1 month, 2 months, or even 6 months. *Tip: Pre-Ordering your envelopes and making your lists before your baby arrives will give you a little more breathing room. Also, picking a design that you like beforehand will help when you are taking photos (or having a professional take them). Wording for Birth Announcements Our photo birth announcements designs have sample wording for you to review. Usually, the following announcement verse includes the following elements: An introductory phrase or passage such as "We joyfully introduce" or "We welcome with love." Baby's Name: First and middle, or first, middle and last. This is your preference. Birth Stats: Baby's birth date, time, weight and length. Some parents enjoy adding where the baby was born, for example: "Born in Brooklyn, NY on February, 20th, 2008 at 3:45 pm." Closing: Parents names, sibling names, and sometimes pet names! Wording for Adoption Announcements Adopting a child is a momentous and special event that also warrants sending out an announcement. (We have adoption announcement designs, but please note any of our boy or girl designs can be modified to be adoption announcements). Typical information includes: An introductory phrase or passage such as "We joyfully introduce" or "We welcome with love." Baby or Child's Name: First and middle, or first, middle and last. This is your preference. When the child was born, as well as when the child became a member of your family. For example: Juliana Grace Born on November 3, 2007 Welcomed into our hearts and home on January 14, 2008 If your child has come from another part of the world or country, feel free to share that with your recipients. Closing: Parents names, sibling names, and sometimes pet names! Is a personalized message needed on each announcement? Not at all. With all the time that a newborn demands, your friends and family will not expect a hand-written note from you. However, if you'd like to include a special hello to some recipients, the back of the card is a great place for this. Grandparents or out of town relatives may especially appreciate it! This is my second child. Is it okay to send out an announcement? Absolutely! In fact, if the baby's sibling is old enough, why not make him or her a part of the announcement process! They can help you look through designs, put stamps on the envelopes, etc. Sample wording could be as follows: Jonas proudly announces the birth of his new baby sister! Samantha Ann (stats, etc.)