| Ask an expectant mother the top ten
things she needs prior to the birth of her baby and the odds are
she won’t be asking for specific items in certain colors for
the shower. Thoughts are more focused on needing help with caring
for the baby once he or she is born. Regardless of this fact, baby
showers will continue on as they always have and expecting mothers
will need to give some sort of gift ideas to shower guests.
Some questions that are asked frequently are what are the various
types of gifting and what is the correct protocol? Money trees,
mother’s registry, cash and gift cards will be addressed below.
The Gift That is Never Duplicated
Gift cards can be a great gift. Let’s face it, they are practical
and the beneficiary of the card can get exactly what she wants.
There are even instances where the shower invitations may notate
to bring gift cards only. Personally, I prefer gift cards if I am
giving to someone that is a casual acquaintance. For example, if
you want to purchase a card for your son’s little league coach,
then voila, the gift and idea is perfect. However, there is something
about giving a gift card at a baby shower that puts a damper on
the entire event, in my humble opinion. Have you ever seen the expectant
mother hold up a card while the crowd oohs and aahhhs? Not very
likely. They are a tool of convenience which requires little if
any thought. But, some people love them.
Tell me what you want!
From my perspective, this is the way to go. If an expectant mother
signs up with a store for a gift registry, then there is no room
for error! To all concerned, I believe this is a win-win situation.
Guests know precisely what color, what item, where and what motif
to buy and can do so knowing that the gift is needed and wanted.
No muss, no fuss! A word of caution for the hostesses: Be sure to
include gifts of varying prices. Not everyone can afford to give
hefty gifts and modestly priced items will be appreciated by your
guests. To include pricey gifts only borders on rudeness.
The Proverbial “Made of Money” Tree
Although money trees are a commonplace site at most showers, I would
highly advise against having one. Most people are offended when
the money trees are displayed. It gives an overwhelming suggestion
that all the expectant mother is interested in is money for the
baby. Many consider this to be rude. Instead of insisting on a money
tree, allow guests to bring either a gift or money. Perhaps keep
all the cash in an envelope so that it doesn’t take over the
decorations in prominence.
Dream Trees
This is an idea that allows you to incorporate a money tree in a
very subtle manner. If guests want to contribute cash, then take
those cash items and allow every person to contribute a dream for
the baby and new family. Not only can these dreams be read during
the shower but they are wonderful keepsakes for your baby on the
way! This really allows your guests to show creativity by not only
thinking of a wish for the baby and your new family, but what will
signify or portray that wish the best? Perhaps a framed photograph
of the beach or park attached with a note saying, “I am dreaming
a wish for you and your new family to have lots of days enjoying
nature and each other!” Again, these keepsakes are priceless
and can be kept throughout the years so that your family and new
baby can enjoy them always.
Wishing Well
Another great idea is bred from the Money and Dream Tree motif.
A Wishing well can be decorated so that guests can write down a
wish with a gift and put it in the well. Again, the hostess can
read the comments for everyone later in the party. For example,
a package of sunflower seeds and a simple note stating “Here’s
hoping you have a sunshiny life with your new family”. The
thought will be appreciated by the hostess and the other guests.
Also, if you want to have wishes only put into the well, then perhaps
you can find spare change to place beside the well and then at the
end of the party, the change can be donated to a charity. These
are all wonderful ideas!
Individualize your Shower
Don’t be afraid to make your next baby shower unique to your
tastes. That is part of the entertainment! Your guests will enjoy
and appreciate your choosing games and gifts that are not only affordable
but convenient to give. For example, some people simply do not enjoy
shopping inside a store. For those friends, why not suggest a few
websites that feature the items that you are looking for? Not only
can your friends order online and easily buy the product, but they
didn’t have to spend time inside a mall and store! Using online
retailers are not only convenient, but they also can handle gift-wrapping,
personal notes etc. when they ship your gift. It’s one stop
shopping at its best!
By providing different ideas and suggestions for your guests, your
shower will be sure to be a hit! Just remember that there are as
many variations and ideas as you want there to be! Good Luck.
Another fantastic idea is Charity Ideas
For example, I know of a guest that gave a gift to the expectant
mother and also provided a snapshot of baby needs such as blankets,
diapers, bottles, formula and other various items that she gave
to a women’s shelter or children’s charity. I find that
these types of gifts mean so much not only to the hostess but to
the eventual recipients.
So spend some time before your next shower and give some thought
to what will be the most fun, practical and enjoyable for your guests
|
