A baby shower is a time when friends, family, and loved ones come together to show their support and shower the mom-to-be with gifts.
Of course, baby shower gifts play an important role in helping new parents prepare for the arrival of their little one.
In this blog post, we will discuss the factors to consider when buying baby shower gifts and how much you should spend depending on your relationship with the mom-to-be.
So let’s get to it.
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The closeness of your relationship with the mom-to-be should be taken into account when selecting a baby shower gift.
You would likely spend less on a baby shower gift for a coworker or acquaintance and more on a gift for a close friend or family member.
Ultimately, you should aim to get gifts that you know would be most beneficial for mom-to-be and her baby while also keeping your budget in mind.
Budget
Speaking of budget, it’s important for you to consider your budget when purchasing a baby shower gift.
It is important to find a gift that you can comfortably afford without causing any financial strain. Remember, it’s the thought and effort that count most, not the price tag.
Personal preferences
Take into consideration the personal preferences of the mom-to-be. If she has expressed a particular interest or need, try to choose a gift that aligns with her desires. This will show that you have actually taken the time to understand her needs and preferences.
Baby Registry
Check if the mom-to-be has created a baby registry. Baby registries are great resources as they provide a list of items that the parents specifically need or want for their baby. Choosing a gift from the registry ensures that the gift will be useful and appreciated, so always follow the baby registry if one is available.
How Much Should You Spend on Baby Shower Gifts?
To help you determine how much to spend on a baby shower gift, consider the following guidelines based on your relationship with the mom-to-be:
Coworker or acquaintance: $20-$40
For coworkers or acquaintances, a budget of $20-$40 is appropriate. Consider practical items such as baby clothing, diapers, or a baby care set.
Friend or distant relative: $40-$80
If you are a friend or a distant relative of the mom-to-be, consider a gift in the range of $40-$80. You can choose from a variety of options such as baby gear, nursery decorations, or a personalized baby blanket.
Close friend or family member: $80+
For close friends or family members, you might consider a more substantial gift that costs a bit more than what you would get a coworker or distant relative. This could include larger items like strollers, cribs, or even a contribution towards a baby savings account!
Remember, the most important aspect of a baby shower gift is the thought behind it. Regardless of the price, a heartfelt and useful present will be appreciated by the mom-to-be. Try to focus on how beneficial the gift will be for mom and baby.
Practical Baby Shower Gifts
Now that we’ve addressed baby shower gift amount etiquette and you now have a better understanding of the appropriate amount for a baby shower gift, let’s discuss some gift ideas.
First things first, when attending a baby shower, it’s important to give practical gifts that the new parents will find useful. While fancy outfits and adorable toys are tempting (and definitely appreciated!), here are some more practical baby shower gift ideas that will truly make a difference.
Diapers and Wipes: You can never go wrong with a stockpile of diapers and wipes. New parents go through countless diapers and a ridiculous amount of wipes, so this gift will always be appreciated. Cloth diapers are also an option for parents who want to go this route.
Baby Bath Essentials: A bathtime gift set including baby shampoo, body wash, towels, and washcloths is a practical and useful gift. It will most definitely come in handy during bathtime.
Nursing Accessories: If the new mom plans to breastfeed, consider gifting her nursing accessories such as nursing bras, breast pumps, breast pads, or a nursing pillow. These items will make her breastfeeding journey more comfortable.
Baby Monitor: A reliable baby monitor will give the new parents peace of mind. They can keep an eye on their little one even when they’re not in the same room.
Baby Carrier: A comfortable baby carrier allows parents to keep their hands free while still keeping their baby close. Look for one that provides proper support for the baby’s developing hips and spine.
Strollers and Car Seats: A baby stroller and a car seat are must-haves for parents, so if you are looking for a larger baby shower gift idea, this is a great one to consider.
Convertible Crib: A convertible crib is another great baby shower gift idea if you are looking at something more substantial. These cribs can convert from a crib to a toddler bed and sometimes even into a full-size bed!
Tips for Buying Baby Shower Gifts
While choosing a baby shower gift, keep these tips in mind to ensure you choose the perfect one:
Check the Baby Registry: The easiest way to know what the parents need and want is to check their baby registry. This way, you can be confident that your gift will be appreciated and useful.
Consider the Baby’s Gender: While it’s not necessary to buy gender-specific gifts, it can be a nice touch. If you know the baby’s gender, you can choose colors and themes that align with it.
Include a Gift Receipt: It’s always a good idea to include a gift receipt with your present. This way, if the parents already have the item or prefer something different, they can easily exchange it.
Buy in Advance: Don’t wait until the last minute to buy the baby shower gift. Plan ahead and make your purchase early to ensure you have enough time to find the perfect gift.
Wrapping Up
When shopping for baby shower gifts, practicality is key. Opt for items that will make the new parents’ lives easier. Whether it’s diapers, bath essentials, or a baby carrier, practical gifts are always appreciated.
Remember to consider the baby’s gender, check the baby registry, include a gift receipt, and buy in advance. Also, focus less on how much to spend on a baby shower gift and focus more on how beneficial the gift will be to the parents.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to choose a thoughtful and practical gift that the new parents will definitely be grateful for.
