by Ashley Hammond

Created on: September 21, 2008

One of the biggest questions asked when buying for a new baby is "What is the perfect gift?" Should I get the cutesy bows? Or how about the soft blue blanky?

Well I am about to break it down for you and give you a few things to think about when buying the ultimate baby shower present.

My first recommendation is to USE THEIR REGISTRY! Many soon-to-be mommy's and daddy's

will register somewhere and list the things that they either want or need. This will not only make shopping VERY easy for you but will give the proud parents exactly what they want.

If a registry is not available or you want to give them something a little more personal, you will want to keep a few things in mind. First, WHO are you buying for? Are the parents going to appreciate the onesie with the skull and cross bones, the organic kimono bodysuit
or the fluffy pink dress bought at your neighborhood boutique. Also, ask what their nursery theme is. That will help put you in the direction of colors that they want to adorn their little one in and other items such as blankets, that will go with the theme they chose.

A couple other items that new parents will love that most people don't think about are keepsake items. Baby books, photo albums, picture frames and feet and hand casting kits are just a couple wonderful ideas that the parents will be thrilled about.

Another thing to keep in mind is that although many people want to buy things that no one else will give, some of the best baby shower presents are the most obvious. Things such as diapers, wipes, onesies, diaper rash cream and even baby tylenol. They may seem like boring
gifts to you, but a new parent will be grateful to recieve them!

When buying these gifts, remember to think ahead. Although these more sensible presents are perfect, keep in mind that a package of size one diapers will be better than newborns, and size 3-6 month or larger onesies or clothes will be better than the smaller sizes. Most new parents have itty bitty baby clothes thrown at them, and although they are so
adorable, most babies will out grow them very quickly, and the parents will be left having to go out and buy the next size up.

My last great baby shower gift idea is this. Instead of purchasing a bag or box to put the gift in, buy something they will use and put the gift in that. Things such as a diaper bag, a baby bathtub or even a cute storage box that matches the nursery them are the perfect "present holder" and will add a more personal and useful touch to your gift.

With these ideas in mind, have fun and happy hunting!

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