Baby Shower Gift Guide
A baby shower should be an event to celebrate, but the pressure to find the perfect gift can ruin the fun. If you don't have children, you may be completely clueless. This guide will help you choose a baby shower gift the parents and baby will love. Take the stress out of your shopping with these simple tips.
Although using the registry may seem unoriginal, these are items the family wants or needs for new baby. Any item chosen is a great choice because it has already been hand-selected. Just make sure you shop early because some of the baby items listed may be very costly. If you wait until the last minute, these will be the only items left. You want to make sure you can find a gift that will fit your price range.
If you’d like to give a more costly gift, but can’t quite afford it, ask others to go in on it with you. If you are close to the family, you will know a few friends or family members who may want to join forces. You aren’t expected to empty your bank account to give large extravagant gifts. That’s Grandma’s job.
If there isn’t a gift registry, don’t be ashamed to ask mom-to-be for a few helpful suggestions. There may be a few items she’s really hoping for, but no one has asked her. There’s no shame in asking for help. Ultimately you can be sure that your gift will be exactly what she wants.
If you are a mom, think back to your child’s infancy. Which items made life easier? What couldn’t you live without? Use this knowledge to choose helpful gifts. New parents will be thankful to have these items. Share your knowledge; it’s a great gift! Also consider creating a baby book or a baby shower book. During the shower, you can discreetly pass it around and ask everyone to write a few lines of advice. Not only is this a lovely keepsake, but parents can refer to it frequently for help and guidance.
Personalized baby items will be treasured for a lifetime. If you know what baby’s name will be, have it engraved on a money bank, clock or picture frame. Add baby’s sonogram photo for an extra personal touch. Don’t include baby’s birthday in any personalized gift until he/she is born. Mom’s due date isn’t always right, so it’s best to play it safe. Other personal baby gifts include a baby handprint or footprint kit. These unique gifts are great for any baby, and you don’t need to know the personal details.
Although it may seem tacky to give diapers as a gift, parents will appreciate every single pack. The diaper expenses for new parents are incredible, and adding diapers to your gift will help them tremendously. To dress up the gift, create a diaper cake composed of tier after tier of rolled up diapers and hidden baby toys. Not only is the gift unique and adorable, but it is also useful.
Baby clothing is another practical gift. Don’t spend a great deal of money on clothing because at this age, baby will be growing fast. Consider onesies, socks, hats and pajamas. These items are generally not very pricey. It’s safe to buy clothing a size larger than your best estimation. This way baby will grow into it, and you know it won’t be too small.
If you are buying baby toys, make sure they are safe for newborns. Check the recommended age listed on the box, and look for small parts and sharp edges. Babies put everything in their mouths, so make sure nothing could be a choking hazard and the materials are nontoxic and washable. Even large stuffed animals can be a hazard for newborns, increasing the risk of suffocation if they are placed in the baby's crib. Stick to simple, classic baby toys.
Gift cards and gift certificates are always useful to new parents. Choose one for a mall, baby store, convenience store or grocery store. Parents will be grateful to have extra money for diapers, clothing or other accessories. They could even use it to purchase something they didn’t receive at the baby shower. Either way, they will be able to choose how to spend the money, and purchase something they want or need.
Consider adding a small gift to pamper mom, or giving her a gift certificate for a massage or spa treatment. Massages are great for pregnant women, who may experience back aches and muscle pains, and they are also great for mom to relax after the birth. Parents are in for a huge life adjustment with a new baby, and they need to find time to unwind.
If you can’t find that perfect gift but want to give something special, consider donating your time and services. Make up a book of coupons good for free babysitting, housecleaning or other services. Mom and Dad will appreciate the chance to take a break or spend a night away from home. This gift is guaranteed to be enjoyed, and you’ll feel good for helping out.
Choose one tip or combine multiple tips for baby shower gifts that will never be forgotten! Good luck and happy shopping!
