Pregnancy Announcement Ideas

Partners

• You can let your partner in on the news with something as simple as handing them the pregnancy test or you could hang a Baby on Board sign in his car window and see how long it takes him to notice it. Alternatively, you could plan a romantic dinner for two, featuring a strong "baby" theme. For example, baby back ribs with Sweet Baby Ray's barbecue sauce and baby carrots on the side. After the meal, offer him a glass of wine and when he prepares to pour your glass, respond with something like, "I probably shouldn't drink," and rub your tummy in a meaningful way. If he doesn't get it, try following dinner with a baby-themed movie, such as "Look Who's Talking" or "Nine Months." If he still doesn't get the hint, you could present him with a Father-to-Be gift box stuffed with books on parenthood, bibs, pacifiers, sippy cups, bottles, baby booties, baby name books and rattles.

Parents

• Breaking the news to the soon-to-be grandparents can be tricky. Many parents look forward to become grandparents, but others do not. The most likely reaction to the announcement should be factored in to the way the information is presented. For those parents who've been dreaming of being called grandma and grandpa, you may want to invite them out to dinner and present them with "World's Best Grandparents" T-shirts. Once they true meaning of the message dawns on them, you can enjoy a festive evening together. For a less conventional approach, try sending a blue or pink bouquet of flowers with a card saying, "See you on (due date). Love, your future grandchild" For those parents who may be less than ecstatic about the impending arrival, try writing a note or making a personalized card telling them what amazing parents they were. Follow this with an expression of hope; tell them you believe in your heart that they will be brilliant in their new roles as grandparents. Remember, the first reaction does not necessarily reflect the person's true emotions. Your news may have simply caught them off guard.

Friends and Family

• To make your news known to all of your friends, consider scanning or photographing your ultrasound. Attach it to an e-mail and offer your friends the first glimpse of your new addition. Odds are good they won't be able to tell the difference between a hand and a foot, but it's still a nice way to include everyone in your happy news. For a more personal approach, have a photo taken of you and your partner and then use it to make postcards or photo greeting cards. In the card's message, include a riddle about the upcoming event or a cleverly worded proclamation, such as "The Smith Family--currently under construction. Renovations expected to be complete by (due date)."