Following my theme of gift etiquette, this week I am going to cover baby shower gift etiquette. I have previously mentioned that I have been to a truck load of weddings and that has ensured one thing - I am now attending LOTS of baby showers! In fact, I am attending one this Saturday!

If your not the maternal type then attending a babyshower could equate to a couple hours of hell - in which case I highly recommend taking a bottle of France's finest to get you through all the "oohhing and aaahhhing". If you do fancy all things petite then you will no doubt have a ball. Which ever side of the fence you sit, the following tips will help you pick the perfect present!

A LITTLE HISTORY

Traditionally baby showers were held so that women could share knowledge and wisdom about motherhood, however the trend of giving gifts at baby showers began in the 18th Century in New York. Baby showers were traditionally held for the first baby however this has also changed as subsequent showers may now be held for additional children or indeed adopted children. Time has eroded many baby shower traditions which can lead to confusion and frustration when it comes to choosing the most appropriate baby shower gift.

PERSONAL SITUATION
With tradition seemingly out the window, it's best to employ a little common sense. Consider your recipients personal situation with regard to the gift you choose. If the recipient is struggling financially then practical gifts will be most appreciated. Practical doesn't have to be boring though - some elaborate gift wrapping and inspirational gift card will still ensure a wow factor. Similarly, you may wish to consider a gift specifically for the Mum to be as she will be spending any extra dollars on her new bub rather than herself so it may be nice to receive something just for her. If on the other hand the Mum to be is gilding her nursery borders in gold leaf than you can be a little more frivolous.


This baby gift from Red Ribbon
comprises two complete outfits yet is
elaborately packaged which makes it the
perfectly practical gift for any shower!

Heaven Scent $115



FOLLOW INSTRUCTIONS
If the Mum-to-be has set up a gift registry (as they often do these days) respectfully follow her wishes and choose a gift from that. Just be sure to get in early before all the of the good stuff (read "something within budget") goes. If you leave it too late then it is ok to buy something not on the registry. It could be a good idea to consult with the Mum-to-be's Mother/Sister/close friend to get an idea of a gift that would be appropriate.

CLOTHES
Maternal or not, baby clothes are adorable which makes it very tempting to choose an item of clothing for your baby shower gift. However I don't think they are a great choice as babies grow so quickly, you may not know the sex of the baby and clothes are the first thing that Grandparents and Aunts/Uncles to be rush out and buy when they hear the news - trust me I know this from experience! As a general guide:

Size 00000:      Premature
Size 0000:       0-3 months
Size 000:         3- 6 months
Size 00:           6-9 months
Size 0:             9-12 months

So maybe plan ahead and buy a bigger size that is going to last a little longer. If you don't know the sex of the child stick to neutral colours and unisex items or go for some accessories. And again, if the Mum to be is on struggle street be practical otherwise what baby doesn't need a Gucci change mat?

BABY SHOWER GIFT IDEAS FROM RED RIBBON GIFTS


Baby Blanket $49.95                   Plush Toy $31.95                 Nappy Bag $129.00 


INAPPROPRIATE GIFTS
Pregnant women experience a multitude of changes with their body throughout pregnancy and afterwards. It is a very personal and sometimes private experience that some women may not be entirely comfortable with. Strech marks, skin tags, pigmentation and the obvious weight gain are all constant reminders of this change so don't compound the situation by giving stretch mark creams or weight loss aids of any kind. The Mum-to-be is likely all over the Bio Oil situation so don't add insult to injury! 


GIFT WRAPPING
Baby showers are all about the ceremony of showering the Mum-to-be with lots of attention and gifts. Opening the presents is a central part of any shower and much time and focus is given to this part of the shower. When it's your turn to bestow the recipient with her gift all eyes WILL be focused on your gift, and lets cut the crap, they WILL be secretly judging your gift starting with the gift wrapping. My advice - make it elaborate. Go for good quality gift wrap, use gift seals (not tape), paper bands and finish with a ribbon. The card is an important part of this flamboyance so spend the extra couple of dollars and make it a good one. All quality gift stores offer complimentary gift wrapping so be sure to ask.