It’s spring, which means it’s baby shower season. At best, it’s a reasonably fun way to spend an afternoon with people you love (or at least like). But at worst, it’s a stressful shopping experience followed by several hours of awkwardly passing blankets around and playing gag-inducing games. (Why is guessing what kind of chocolate looks like poop in a diaper a thing?? Really, I’m asking.) A thoughtful gift goes a long way, and the registry will steer you in the right direction, but here are some of my tips and must-haves that were lifesavers during the first year!
- Stay on-registry. I repeat, STAY. ON. REGISTRY. Don’t assume your friend wants some random item you THINK she wants. Don’t make more work for the parents-to-be by requiring them to make a trip to the store for a return.
- Unless the parents have specifically registered for clothes, don’t buy clothes. Just don’t. They will get plenty. Babies poop on everything. And even the most adorable $30 outfit will absolutely be promptly exchanged for a box of desperately needed diapers.
- When in doubt, diapers and wipes. All the diapers and wipes. Millions and millions of diapers and wipes.
- You can’t go wrong with light muslin swaddle blankets; we used them every single day during the first few months.
- A GOOD white noise machine will work miracles; we have a Dohm that is still going strong almost two years later.
- Gift cards to the couple’s favorite restaurants are gold, especially restaurants that deliver.
- Sometimes moms don’t plan as much for the immediate postpartum period. Earth Mama Angel Baby postpartum products are magical. I highly recommend the Earth Mama bottom balm, bottom spray, and nipple butter, and they have a whole line of post c-section products too.
- A local spa gift certificate. What new mama doesn’t need a mani/pedi or massage??
- A membership to Babywearing International. It’s only $30 for a whole year, and you can borrow new carriers and learn how to use them every month!
- Your favorite children’s books, with a personal message written inside about why that book is special to you. These are some of my most treasured gifts. A child can never have too many books!