Guide to the baby gift registry and baby shower gift shopping
There is etiquette to guide the creation of a baby shower registry as well as the purchase of a baby shower gift, and with good reason. Money is a delicate subject, and you will want to make sure you don’t alienate, offend or otherwise inconvenience all those involved. When it comes to the registry, be sure to include a range of prices, but focus on easily affordable and useful items that your guests will be pleased to purchase; it’s fine to include a big-ticket item or two that can function as a group gift, but don’t go overboard.
You can include your registry stores on the baby shower invitation for convenience purposes, but be wary of charming boutiques and unique neighborhood stores, especially if some guests will be coming from different cities. An all-inclusive store will accommodate guests and better ensure that you get what you want—consider a Baby R Us registry to cover everything from receiving blankets to strollers. If there is a boutique that carries a specific item you would like, maybe you can mention it to close friends or family that live in the area.
For all you baby shower guests, try to stay within the bounds of the registry, unless there is particularly unique or sentimental gift that you’re aching to give. Hand knitted or crocheted garments are always a nice gesture and your effort will undoubtedly be appreciated. As for other retail items, keep in mind that the registry was likely constructed with careful thought and foresight—unless you are a seasoned baby shower invitee or have learned some wisdom from your own parenting experience that leads you to a particular product, the mom-to-be will be most happy to receive what she had requested.
Now that the protocol is all worked out, consider some tried and true favorites that should adorn every baby shower registry. One welcome addition to a new mother’s arsenal of toys and gadgets will be a nursing pillow. Look for a versatile and stylish model that will blend nicely with bedroom décor and can double as a play toy for baby down the road. A baby carrier, breast pump, diaper genie, versatile bath tub and a comprehensive “first aid” book for new parents are all great gift ideas that are sure to make everyday tasks a lot easier for a new mother. Baby shower gifts that are as functional as they are adorable will be the wisest investments.
