For all you Southern Mamas, what is a "sip and see"?

[ChefGirl]

Okay, just rec'd an invite to "sip and see" in honor of a neighbor's baby girl on the block. What is that? A shower??? Is this a Southern thing? Anyone?

It's like a little party to visit the new baby. You have something to eat or drink (sip) and you (see) the new baby. I've never been to one so I don't know the gift protocol.

[lilycat88]

It might be different in some areas but I would liken it to an open house. Some people might bring gifts but not all.

[BaileyBea]

We are having a Sip and See for DD in a couple of weeks. It's basicly an open house with a variety of drinks and appetizers where your guests can meet your new baby. For us Gifts are optional. You should do whatever you are comfortable with gift wise.

[madelinesmom]

It is a wonderful opportunity to dress up your child, and visit, see a new baby w/o disturbing the new family. I really enjoy them so much more than a shower. We usually don't do gifts, but if you would like I am sure the no one would be offended. My rule is if it dosen't say shower that means no gift... I am not sure if it is a "Sourther Thing" but we do them in Louisiana and Texas...

Jane
Madeline and Emily's Mom
1/20/03 11/29/05

[Mommy_Again]

One of my good friends wants to have one but we are not sure on a few points. Her mom and MIL want to throw it for her...is this appropriate? I know for a shower, family members hosting is taboo, but what about sip n see? Also, is it bad if it is held in her own home, or should it be elsewhere? I offered to join as a hostess and do it at my house.

I had a very informal one at our country club organized by my mom and one of her friends who also had a grandbaby there (it was for both of us)...but no invitations were sent out and it was very casual.

[madelinesmom]

I think it is fine for her Mom and MIL to host, but why on earth would someone want to have it at their own home, especially with a new baby??? My house looked like hell for or should I say, Still looks like hell and Emmy is almost 10 month now... I guess if she is a glutton for punishment she could have it at her home but I think somewhere else would be more appropriate. CC is a great solution...

Jane
Madeline and Emily's Mom
1/20/03 11/29/05

[jarrettsmom9705]

I had one of these for my DS after he was born. It worked well for us since we didn't want to know the sex until the birth. So instead of baby showers before the birth, we were given "Sip 'N Sees" after he was born (actually, at 3 months old). It was pretty much the same as a baby shower - food, gifts, etc. - with the added bonus of the guests getting to "oooh" and "aaah" over the baby. Very fun.
I'm Southern, but surely they have these in other parts of the country besides the South.
Tracy

[tarahsolazy]

I have never heard of this in my life! So they must not be common in the midwest, anyway. Sounds like a fun idea, though.