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Friday, October 31, 2008

Baby Shower Gifts

By Charmaine L. Smoot

If you're like most women today, life is a whirlwind. Work, home, community, not to mention family and friends, have all staked their claim to a piece of your day's schedule. It's a wonder that you can find any quality alone time at all!

- Who's the receiver? Is it for your pregnant friend or her baby?

- The receiver's gender. Is the gift for the baby? If so, knowing the child's gender can help you narrow down your gift choices.

- The Receiver's Age. If the bun is still in the oven or already in the bread basket when the shower is held, plan your gift accordingly.

- You Financial Situation. Are you in the position to give something extravagant right now? If not, would you like to pair up with another guest and perhaps buy something a little more expensive?

If you plan on giving clothing as a gift, the baby's gender is important in determining the gift's color in most cases. Onesies, baby blankets, bibs, socks, mitts, pajamas, bodysuits, and cute little booties are essential items that parents, especially new ones, will appreciate.

You can never go wrong when you buy a baby basic as a gift. For example, items such as baby music CDs, mystical mobiles to hang over a crib, dark-chasing night lights, and cuddly stuffed animals are all presents baby will cherish for a long time. Other basics such as health, grooming, and hygiene products for baby are welcome additions to any new parent's closet. Diaper bags, diaper pails, baby strollers, baby slings, and other baby carriers are all wonderful gift ideas both mom and baby will love.

Baby shower gifts come in a variety of prices. They can be expensive or affordable... just select what works for you and your family's budget. If you're looking to spend a little more money or want to pair up with a friend or two and buy a gift together, personalized gifts are a great idea, since they usually have a higher price point than other gifts. Many stores, especially those online, have wonderful selections for you to peruse. How about an engraved gift, such as silver spoons or silver plated book covers?

Now, if you prefer buying a shower gift for the mom, remember that, unless you're sure about her preferences, personal or clothing items may not be the best gift idea... perhaps a gift certificate would be better? If it's for the baby, you can always think a little bit ahead and get clothing sizes that the child probably won't grow into until after the first 6 to 9 months of life. Mom will really appreciate this when it gets to be that time, and remember your thoughtfulness in the process!

Seasonality should also be considered when deciding on a baby gift. Is the baby due (or, if the shower is held when the baby has already been delivered) during winter, spring, or summer? If it's the summer, consider cooler outfits instead of blankets and hats. If the baby is due around winter time, perhaps a festive sweater or onesie would be appreciated.

But what if, like other Wonder Women, you're in a pinch for time and can't afford to give yourself the guilty pleasure of baby gift shopping? You can always let technology help by shopping for your gifts online, in the comfort of your own home, wearing cozy pajamas. There are many wonder gifts available online for any budget.

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