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Baby Shower Present Ideas
by Kimberly Ripley
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Overview
Baby showers are designed to honor the new mother and to help her prepare for the imminent arrival. Gifts are a big part of the shower and should be comprised of items that will be helpful for both mother and child. Many prospective moms sign up on a shower registry at a store of their choosing. This is helpful in ensuring that multiples of the same gift are not received. Handmade or store bought gifts are both perfectly acceptable. Be as creative as you would like or choose an item or two from the registry.
A diaper cake serves as both a functional gift and adorable centerpiece at any baby shower.
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Staples
If you are a mom or grandmother, you know how many little items new moms need when babies first arrive. She needs a lot of staples like diapers, bottles, hooded baby towels, receiving blankets, undershirts, drawstring nightgowns and footed sleepers. Add to that list an abundance of pre-moistened wipes, baby powder, baby lotion, baby shampoo and washcloths. For a fun but useful idea, combine an assortment of these items and present them in an attractive basket that can later serve as a catch-all for the top of the new baby's dresser.
Another good idea is to buy these items in a couple of different sizes, as new babies tend to grow very quickly and will soon be wearing the next size up. You could also purchase a few of these staples and wrap them in a baby blanket tied with a ribbon instead of packaging them in a box or gift bag.
Give a gift of diapers by rolling them and stacking them to look like a diaper cake. Tie ribbons around each "layer" and decorate with baby toys.
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Big Ticket Items
Some of the more expensive baby items are still affordable if bought as a group gift. If three or four of you are attending a shower and had planned on spending $35 each, combine your money and buy one of the larger items that is needed. Most new babies need a cradle or crib and a portable play yard (sometimes called a "pack and play"). They definitely need a car seat and a stroller. Before too long a crib is a must-have, as the baby quickly outgrows the cradle. Also, a high chair or booster seat is needed for feeding times.
Should you opt to purchase a larger item as a group gift, or if you can afford a high ticket item on your own, check with family members first to be sure they have not already purchased the item, and always ask for a gift receipt when shopping for baby showers. This way the new mom has the option to return the gift without feeling awkward.
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Don't Forget Mom
Baby shower gifts do not necessarily have to be for the new baby but may be presented to the new mom as well. Gifts that pamper the new mom, like gift certificates for a massage, manicure or pedicure, are perfect. New moms need all the rest and relaxation they can get and soon learn that such occasions occur quite infrequently. Gift cards for restaurant takeout meals are a great idea too, since cooking is difficult in those first few weeks at home with the new baby.
Consider offering your own services for child care, cooking or house cleaning as a gift, as these are all things most new moms will welcome. Grocery store gift cards are especially helpful too, as finances can be strained with a new baby and mom being out of work for maternity leave.
New moms typically cannot fit into their old clothes right away and are likely sick to death of wearing maternity clothing. Consider buying a gift card for a new outfit or new comfortable pair of shoes.
Make a homemade gift certificate that entitles the new parents to an evening out. The certificate may include childcare services and a quick once-over of the kitchen and living room while mom and dad are out. You can even attach a restaurant gift card for them to enjoy as well.
Baby shower present ideas are almost endless. Add your own personal touch to each gift for an added creative flair.
