DEAR MISS MANNERS: I am lucky in that multiple friends of mine offered to host a baby shower for my upcoming arrival. I demurred with all of them and most of them dropped the subject.

Two friends insisted that they wanted to celebrate, and asked me if I would oblige, and I agreed. I provided a list of invitees and offered to drop some if it was too many, named my other friends who had offered to host as potential co-hosts if they so desired, and my registry info. I did not provide any guidance for the event itself, as I am not the host. They suggested a nice restaurant for the event, which I said was fine.

I received an invitation at the same time as all other guests. The invitation specifies that each guest must pay for their own food and drink.

I am mortified at the prospect of being

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