For first-time parents, a baby shower registry can feel like a bit of a minefield – what on earth do you really need? And what stuff is just pointless and unnecessary? These same questions can feel just as confusing if you’re the guest at a baby shower (particularly if you’re not also a parent yourself!). When I think of baby showers I think of beautiful cupcakes and far too many cute clothes. So, I’ve had a long, hard think about what really makes a good gift for a baby shower, and hope that in sharing this with you guys I’ll be able to help out anyone trying to answer this question.
Clothes
First up? Baby clothes. While it may seem intuitive to go for that adorable newborn onesie, most parents will tell you that while very sweet, it’s a bit of a drag to receive tons of these at your baby shower. Babies grow so fast, meaning that you’ll only realistically be able to use newborn sized clothing for a few weeks or 3 months tops. It might seem strange to give a dress or onesie for a 6 month old at a baby shower, these sizes are a parent’s saving grace when they wake up one morning and baby isn’t fitting in anything they wore yesterday. It happens fast! We really appreciated having so many options for bigger clothing on hand as Honor continued to have random growth spurts over the first few months. Even clothing that will fit baby up to 2 years old will be greatly welcomed by parents – trust me.
Another tip? Avoid impractical materials at all costs. While it might feel tempting to go for a frilly chiffon dress (which baby will look adorable in, of course), don’t forget that babies are constantly spitting up and having diaper disasters, so if something can’t be easily washed – it’s most likely going to be rarely used. Even some of Honor’s prettiest girly dresses for special occasions are made out of cotton and are machine washable. It’s a must!
Practical Items
But even more important than clothes? Practical items. It doesn’t matter if they aren’t necessarily cute or exciting to open, because having essential items that make the parents’ lives easier will be a godsend and likely way more helpful than a pile of clothes once baby arrives. There really is no end to the gadgets and tools available designed to make little things easier: from food and bottle warmers to stroller phone holders, and movement monitors to bath seats. Anything that makes life even a slight bit easier is so welcomed by parents. And as unexciting as it may sound, gifts like a baby bullet, a crib, diapers, wipes, bedding, blankets, socks and bath products are all just as useful and sure to be much appreciated. And if in doubt? Go for gift cards to places like Amazon and Target, so that the parents can buy essential items as needed. Check out some of the practical items that were on my registry, here.
Sentimental Items
Perhaps the most touching gifts are those that are thoughtful – gifts that have some sort of personal meaning or are even homemade are bound to bring a hormonal tear to any pregnant mum’s eye, and will be cherished long after baby’s arrival. Monogrammed blankets to bring baby home from the hospital in, a week-by-week birth diary, a photo album or even children’s books that the parents grew up with – are all very special options to gift new parents.
Something For Mum & Dad
While baby is being showered with everything it could possibly need, don’t forget about the parents! Once baby arrives, they’ll most likely be sleep deprived and stressed out as they settle into their new lives. Maybe pamper mum with a spa treatment or gift dad with some movie ticket vouchers – while they might not have time to use them right away, once they’re ready they will be a welcome reprieve. Another helpful idea? Set them up with a few weeks of a healthy food delivery service. First time parents of a newborn can feel especially overwhelmed and may resort to quick, less healthy meals in a pinch. Having healthy options on hand will be such a lifesaver, and there are so many companies now offering healthy food delivery that you’ll be able to tailor the menus to any parents’ dietary needs and preferences.
What else do you think are cute ideas for a baby shower? Tell me your ideas below!
xx,
