Baby Showers 101: Baby Shower Gifts
Oct 30th 2008Guest AuthorBabies
Like a lot of women, you're pressed for time. Between obligations at work, home, friends, family, and your community, it's tough to find time to slow down. You're a real-life Superwoman!
- Who's the receiver? Is it for your pregnant friend or her baby?
- The receiver's gender. Is the gift for the baby? If so, knowing the child's gender can help you narrow down your gift choices.
- The Receiver's Age. If the bun is still in the oven or already in the bread basket when the shower is held, plan your gift accordingly.
- Your Finances. How much can you afford to spend right now?
All new parents welcome clothes for their baby. Come to think of it, all parents welcome the gift of new clothes for their child, even if the child's a teenager! Clothing is expensive, and with kids growing so quickly, they're even more of a budget-challenge. Knowing the child's gender will help you pick an appropriate color when selecting the perfect bootie, onesie, jammies, bibs, blankets, and mittens for the baby shower.
Baby basics like stuffed animals, baby music, mobiles, and night lights are the things baby will appreciate and love for years to come. In fact, that special stuffed teddy you buy may be a touchstone of that child's early years. Other basics new parents appreciate immensely are hygiene and grooming products. Diaper pails, baby slings, and other baby carrier types are eternally practical gift ideas that both baby and mom (even dad!) will thank you for in years to come.
Whether money is no object or money is a lacking object, you can find a gift you'll be proud to present at the baby shower. Affordability is definitely on everyone's minds these days, and there are many gifts priced well within the average family budget. If you're in a bind, why not go in on a gift with another friend? A great idea would be to personalize a more traditional gift, such as a baby blanket. It's a practical gift that's been customized for the baby that the mom will just love.
Now, if you prefer buying a shower gift for the mom, remember that, unless you're sure about her preferences, personal or clothing items may not be the best gift idea... perhaps a gift certificate would be better? If it's for the baby, you can always think a little bit ahead and get clothing sizes that the child probably won't grow into until after the first 6 to 9 months of life. Mom will really appreciate this when it gets to be that time, and remember your thoughtfulness in the process!
What season is the baby expected or, if it's already born, is the shower being held? Seasonally themed baby gifts, such as a sweater with Christmas applique, are gifts that can spice up any baby picture by suggesting the time of year.
For those pinched for time, there are a wide variety of baby shower gifts available online. As their 'fingers do the walking,' the givers can shop with care, ease, and comfort for the perfect present.