Mother worried about baby shower

Dear Amy: My husband and I are expecting our first baby, due in October.

This will be my only child due to my age and also because the pregnancy has been medically complicated.

I was initially excited to have a baby shower, but now I’m concerned about the health of family and friends, as well as myself and my unborn child.

Many of my family members are much older and at higher risk for having serious complications from COVID-19.

Some of them would not be willing to wear masks; and most of my family would not be computer savvy enough to do a video-call shower.

Maintaining proper etiquette is important to me; do you have any suggestions for how I can still enjoy this momentous event with a shower, and keep everyone safe? — Expectant

Dear Expectant: Because you say etiquette is important to you, you should also understand that “old-school” rules dictate that you should not host this shower for yourself. A friend or relative normally steps in to organize and host.

I have heard of many “remote” showers that seem to work out well. The basic concept is that you receive gifts that are shipped to you and then you start the shower at a prearranged time, with your guests joining you remotely.

It might be fun for you (or your host) to send your special remote guests an invitation along with a tea cup (or an inexpensive wine glass), with the directions to “join” you at a specific date and time via video conference or phone.

The host of the shower would send directions.

AARP.org offers an online tutorial on how to use this technology; even people with landlines can join by phone. Anyone who wants to send a gift would be instructed to have it shipped to your home.