Birth Announcement Etiquette
Birth announcements are sent to anyone you feel would be happy to hear about the new addition to your family. Mailing them within six months is appropriate; the most common time frame is one month after the baby's birth.
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Formality
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There is no rule on how formal the announcement must be. You can go in for engraved stationery or be as casual as making a picture of the baby into a postcard.
Name
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The baby's last name doesn't need to be included unless the parent sending the announcement is a single mother or it's a couple with two different last names.
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Grandparents
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Although it is a nice touch, including the names of the baby's grandparents isn't required.
Adoption
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An announcement should be sent when a child is adopted, no matter what his age. Include his birthday and the day he officially joined your family.
Vital Statistics
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While it's a popular tradition, it isn't necessary to include the baby's weight and length.
Gay and Lesbian Parents
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Gay and lesbian couples should include the full first and last names of both parents, as well as the child's full legal name.
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