Baby showers are now a permanent fixture for moms-to-be all over the country. In fact, it’s almost a rite of passage, particularly with first-timers, and it’s a great opportunity to spend some quality time with friends and loved ones before a big arrival. However, there are a few rules you need to be aware of to ensure you don’t turn up at a baby shower with the wrong kind of gift or expectations. Let’s take a look and see what they are, and ensure that your first invite to a baby shower doesn’t become your last!
Hand-me-downs
OK, so let’s get one thing straight – it’s perfectly fine for parents of newborns to pick up used baby clothes or accept hand-me-downs from friends and family. In fact, there’s a perfect chance they will get them in by the bucketload, as it’s an excellent way to cut down on the expense of having a baby. But just because the expectant parents can do it, doesn’t mean their baby shower guests can. A baby shower is almost like a birthday, and if you are going to bring a gift, make sure it is a new one or something you have made yourself.
The Basics
You don’t have to bring flashy gifts to a baby shower, and you will be surprised how well a few packs of diapers, baby skin cream, or a packet of muslin cloths will go down. It’s the same principal for bedding and baby blankets – you just can’t have enough as a new mom. Ultimately, all these little things that new parents need can cost a fortune, and the more they have of them, the better.
Should I bring a drink?
Thinking of bringing alcohol to your friend’s baby shower? Don’t. The chances are they have been without a glass of wine for the past 8 1/2 months, and the last thing they want to do is host a party where everyone but them is enjoying a drink or two. If you do bring alcohol, make sure it is wrapped with strict instructions not to open until the baby is born!
Clothing
If you decide to buy your friend some baby clothes, think carefully about it. There are plenty of places online and in your local mall that you can use for inspiration – check Makaboo unique baby gifts for an example. But don’t forget about the seasons. Babies grow incredibly quickly, and you need to think ahead to ensure you get the sizing right. For example, there’s no point buying a winter all-in-one in a 2-3-month-old size if they are going to be six months old at Christmas. All that’s needed is a little thought – do the math and choose your sizes and seasonal wear appropriately!
Treats for Mom
Finally, clubbing together and putting some money in a kitty is an excellent way to ensure the new mom gets a little treat after the baby arrives. Your combined money could contribute towards a weekend away for the new parents – who will need it at some point! Massages and pedicures are also a winning idea which frazzled moms will enjoy.
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