Your bundle of joy has arrived! Now that you’re settling in at home, we have a feeling you’ll want to announce your new addition to everyone you know. A traditional birth announcement is a fun (and formal) way to introduce them to the world. A baby announcement card also acts as an official first photo which your loved ones are sure to put up on their mantelpiece.
In this article, we explain how you can design the perfect baby announcement card (that’s personalised to perfection). Plus, we answer the following frequently asked questions:
- What should I write on a baby arrival card?
- Who should get one?
- When should I send them out?
- What kind of design should I choose?
What is the etiquette for birth announcements?
Announcing the arrival of a new baby is a delightful occasion that friends and family will be excited to celebrate with you. To make sure your birth announcements are both thoughtful and well-received, it’s important to follow some basic etiquette guidelines. From timing and content to the appropriate recipients, here’s how to share your wonderful news with grace and style.
What to write on a baby arrival card?
Your baby announcement card shares the joy of your newborn with the world. Here are some things you can include in the card – feel free to add as much or as little as you’d like:
- Baby’s full name
- Birth date, along with time and location
- Adoption date, if applicable
- Weight
- Length
- Gender
- Parents’ names
- Siblings’ names
Need some inspiration on what to write on your card? Get inspired by these baby announcement wording examples:
- Classic and simple: “We are thrilled to announce the arrival of our precious baby girl/boy, [Baby’s Name]. Born on [Date], weighing [Weight].”
- Sweet and sentimental: “Our hearts are full of love as we welcome our baby boy/girl, [Baby’s Name], born [Date]. He/She has already stolen our hearts with his/her tiny hands and sweet smile.”
- Playful and fun: “It’s a girl/boy! Meet our little bundle of joy, [Baby’s Name], born on [Date]. She’s/He’s already a star in our eyes and we can’t wait for you to meet her!”
- From the family: “We are overjoyed to announce the newest addition to our family, baby [Baby’s Name], born on [Date]. Proud big sister [Name] or brother [Name] can’t wait to show him/her the ropes!”
- Poetic and heartfelt: “Our family has grown by two feet! Welcome to the world, [Baby’s Name], born on [Date]. Our hearts are so full of love and gratitude.”
Baby announcement quotes can also add a touch of warmth, humour and inspiration to your special news. Here are some examples from famous authors:
- “A baby is an inestimable blessing and bother.” – Mark Twain
- Oh, the places you’ll go! Today is your day. Your mountain is waiting, so… get on your way!” – Dr. Seuss
- “Sometimes the smallest things take up the most room in your heart.” – A.A. Milne
- “The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step, or in this case, a single little heartbeat.” – Graeme Base
Who should I send a birth announcement to?
Your birth announcement is a personal way to share your joy, so feel free to include anyone you think would appreciate being part of this special moment. Here are some suggestions on who to include in your birth announcement mailing list:
- Family: Immediate family members such as grandparents, aunties, uncles and cousins.
- Close friends: Those who have been supportive and involved throughout your pregnancy.
- Neighbours: Especially those who are close to you or have been particularly supportive.
- Healthcare providers: Your OB/GYN, midwife or doula who helped you during your pregnancy and birth.
- Social circles: Members of any clubs, groups or communities you’re part of.
- Long-distance relatives: Extended family members who would appreciate being included.
When should I send out my birth announcements?
Sending out birth announcements is entirely up to you and your family’s preferences. Traditional etiquette suggests sending them within two to six months after birth. However, it’s completely up to you and when you feel ready to share your news.
VistaPrint Tip
Was your little one born within a few months of the festive season? Consider creating a card that doubles as a Christmas card and birth announcement.
What kind of design should I choose?
Picking a baby announcement template can be fun – choose a design that reflects your personality and values. Here are some baby announcement card ideas to help you get inspired. Rest assured – whatever design you choose, your baby announcement card will be adorable.
Traditional
A traditional, elegant design never goes out of style. A script-style font and muted colours allow people to focus on any photos you include.
Minimal
A modern, minimal style can be achieved with light colours and minimal text.
Typographic
Using a beautiful font can add a touch of elegance to your announcement. This style puts the focus on your newborn’s name.
Greenery and florals
A floral design is especially perfect for spring and summer babies, and greenery is a gorgeous touch at any time of year.
Celestial
Find a template that uses moons, stars, clouds and other celestial-inspired motifs. It’s an announcement card design idea that’s almost as dreamy as your newborn.
Adventure
If your family is known for globetrotting travels or weekend adventures, add a sense of adventure to your announcement. This is also the perfect card design to include a ‘Hello, world!’ message.
Colourful patterns
Create a fun, bright and vibrant design that’s packed with personality and love.
Animals
An animal-themed birth announcement adds a playful touch to your happy news.
How to announce my baby arrival on social media?
Announcing your baby’s arrival on social media can be an exciting moment for new parents. But, it’s completely up to you to decide when and how you choose to share the news. While birth announcement cards are a classic choice, you can also create a heartfelt post for sharing on social. Add a cute graphic or use a baby announcement template to make your post extra special.
Looking for creative caption ideas for your baby announcement post? Here’s some inspo:
- And then there were three… Our little bundle of joy has arrived! 💕👶 #BabyOnBoard
- Life just got a whole lot sweeter with the arrival of our precious little one. Welcome to the world, baby [Baby’s Name]! 🍼💫
- Tiny fingers, tiny toes and a whole lot of love to share. Our family is now complete! 💖 #BabyLove
- Hello world, meet the newest member of our family! We couldn’t be more in love. 💕 #Blessed
- And just like that, our family grew by two tiny feet! Welcome to the world, baby [Baby’s Name]! 💙 #BundleOfJoy
- From bump to baby! Our little one has finally made their grand entrance. Get ready for all the cute baby spam coming your way! 📸👶
VistaPrint Tip
Find inspiration for your perfect baby announcement social post with VistaCreate. Explore thousands of free templates, choose one you love, customise it to your liking, and share your joy with the world.