You’ve been invited to a baby shower, bridal shower, birthday bash, or something like that. Maybe you just wanna grab something right off the registry and call it a day. But hey, maybe you want to sprinkle in a bit more thought. How much effort you put into your gift usually depends on how well you know the person. Is it just a co-worker you say hi to once a week? Or is it your best buddy of ten years and you can’t figure out that last piece to make your gift basket pop? Don’t worry, I’ve got a list for you and I’m here to help!
Baby Showers
I typically begin by consulting the registry (which can be requested or searched) to ascertain what items are already available and what is being requested. Additionally, it is prudent to determine if there is a specific theme for the nursery. Otherwise, here are my go-to’s:
For baby:
- Warmies (I love the concept of these, and they make for a super cute gift they will love for a long time)
- Gripe water
- Mylicon (aka gas drops)
- Teethers (these are my favorite, and babe will need them way sooner than most anticipate)
- Diapers and wipes!
- Sound machine (there are lots of fantastic ones, this momcozy one is my favorite)
- Thermometer (one for under the armpit will give the most accurate reading)
- Baby blanket (always useful)
- Sleep sack (I have a few recommendations for this – post coming soon!)
For mama:
- Haakaa (this has been my longest standing tool on our breastfeeding journey)
- Lanolin
- A big water bottle (spill-proof for the win)
- Peri-bottle (the bent spout makes this so easy to use)
- Blanket (great for moms too)
- All sorts of ice packs (for the breasts, for the goods, you name it – there’s an ice pack)
- Electrolyte powders
- Chapstick
- Tucks pads (life savers)
Bridal Showers
Similar to baby showers, a visit to the registry is ideal. Brides are a bit different than babies. Brides tend to know exactly what they are looking for to include home decor and kitchenware. It’s unlikely, but they might not have a registry, so here’s what I’ve got:
- Mr & Mrs (or whatever their combination) glasses
- wine glasses
- pint glasses
- coffee cups
- Measuring cups (you can never have too many of these)
- Their favorite kind of wine (planning a wedding is stressful, this helps)
- High thread count sheets (most people will not buy this for themselves)
- Something “bride/wifey” personalized
Birthdays
This one can be a bit tricky! It all comes down to the person’s age, their interests, and if there’s something they really want. Gift cards are super easy to grab, but not everyone is a fan of giving them. I think birthday gifts should be about what someone wants rather than what they need. Sometimes, it’s totally worth just asking if they have a wishlist saved somewhere or maybe an Amazon list!
- Java sock (for that iced-coffee lover)
- A plant (there are hard-to-kill plants for those who are without a green thumb)
- Chocolates
- Bouquet of flowers
- Candles
- Perfume/cologne
- Tickets (concerts, games, comedy shows, etc.)
- Reservation for a class (baking, cooking, painting)
- Tattoo money
Tell me what other go-to gift lists you’d like to see!
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