Miss Manners: I don’t want to show them my baby registry

Key Takeaways:

• The original baby registry was meant as a private wish list
• Friends and family are now requesting access to it
• The writer is reluctant to share despite social pressures
• Miss Manners addresses etiquette around gift-giving
• Published in Sun Sentinel on August 30, 2025

Introduction

A short snippet highlighted in the “Miss Manners” column recently sparked an etiquette debate: should an expectant parent share a baby registry that was initially meant to be private? This dilemma arises as the baby shower date approaches and eager attendees want to see the registry to decide which gifts to purchase.

Background

Baby registries often begin as a practical tool for expectant parents to track items they need or want. While many families make their registries public, some prefer to keep them for personal reference until closer to the shower or the baby’s arrival.

The Challenge

The writer of this letter explains that their registry started merely as a wish list—more of a personal checklist than a formal gift guide. However, enthusiasm from relatives and friends quickly turned into multiple requests to access the registry. This shift has left the parent feeling uneasy, as sharing the lineup of specific items might seem presumptuous or private.

Etiquette Considerations

Such a scenario poses questions about societal norms and personal comfort. Is it more polite to honor guests’ requests for a direct look at the registry, or is it acceptable to hold back? While the snippet does not detail Miss Manners’ official response, it emphasizes the writer’s concerns about seeming demanding. These considerations reflect broader issues many parents face: balancing practicality, kindness, and personal boundaries.

Conclusion

Though the complete advice from Miss Manners remains behind a paywall, the snippet from Sun Sentinel reveals that baby shower etiquette still evolves, prompting parents-to-be to weigh openness against privacy. The final takeaway underscores a universal truth: even well-intentioned gifts can prompt complex conversations about courtesy.