Next month I am attending my first baby shower. For the most part, my friends have not yet hit that stage in life yet and we’re still in the throes of bridal showers and bachelorette parties, so while I’m now an expert in buying homegoods and lingerie, I have zero experience in shopping for a little one. I’m clueless as to what a new mom needs to take care of both her baby and herself. And I have a sneaky feeling I’m not alone.
There is of course, always the option to stick to the registry. It’s basically a fail proof approach. But sometimes you want to pick something a little more personal and a little more unique. In case you’re like me and would rather go the off the registry route, I’ve gathered a few suggestions for presents that are practical, fun, and perfect for the first friend in your social circle to become a mother.
1. Swaddle Set: To be honest, I had no idea what a swaddle set was until I started putting together this list, but apparently there are many, many adorable swaddle sets out there. This navy and white set from Pottery Barn is one of my favorites. It also comes in pink and white.
2. Kate Spade Baby Bag: Yes, there are fabulously stylish baby bags out there and Kate Spade makes them. Of course, other designers have gotten in on the mix, but Kate Spade’s is my personal pick. It’s so pretty that you can’t even tell it’s a bag of functionality rather than looks. This would be a great gift to have a few girl friends go in on together.
3. Mini Boden Dress: Boden makes the most precious baby clothes ever. They’re classic with a touch of preppy hipster mixed in and are the perfect outfit for those first special outings.
4. Stack Rock and Pull Toy: The look of this toy is both old school and trendy at the same time. This would be great addition to any nursery, especially one that’s being outfitted from the ground up.
5. Chewbeads: Word on the street is that chewbeads are popular among new moms. They can pass for a statement necklace yet they are made out of a soft plastic that is perfect for baby to chew on. A collection of these in various colors makes a fabulous baby shower gift and lets the new mom feel pulled together even when her infant is chewing on her necklace.
6. Beach Baby Wrap: Since we’re coming up on beach season, this baby beach wrap is a great shower gift. It can be monogrammed, which is wonderful if the mother has already announced her child-to-be’s name.
Hopefully these suggestions help you navigate that first baby shower. It definitely helps to do a little research to see what kind of things are out there and what’s popular this week among new, young moms. And, if you’re still at a loss, there’s always the golden rule of showers: when in doubt, just get something monogrammed.
By Heather Bien
