Sometimes it seems like it's raining birthdays and bills and then, right in the middle, comes a baby shower invitation. If your budget is a little tight, or you're at that point in your life when everyone seems to be getting married or having a baby, this article is for you. Just because you're looking for an inexpensive baby shower gift doesn't mean that is has to be short on feeling or usefulness. There are plenty of heartfelt and practical gifts that won't break the bank.
Below is a list of some major areas to consider when looking for an inexpensive baby shower gift.
Hand-Painted Flower Pot
Paint or stencil the shower theme on the sides of a terra cotta pot. Mom can use this for cotton balls, Q-tips, baby socks or whatever in the nursery.
Mobiles
Get something in the shower theme or that matches the baby's room. Most cost less than $10.00.
Lullaby Tapes
These are sure to be appreciated by weary parents in a few weeks. Check with large daycare centers if you aren't sure which ones are good. Ask the sale clerks at the local music store for kid friendly classical tapes.
Personalized Books
Get a copy of your favorite book, inscribed to the new baby. Do you remember your favorite story? Write a special message or verse for baby. The Book of Hugs is a great book with colorful pictures.
Memory Box
Buy a decorative box in shower matching colors or with pretty flowers. Stencil "baby memories" or the child's name on the top. You can also by a plain one and paint or stencil characters, flowers, or dinosaurs on the sides and lid. Find the boxes at craft stores and flower shops.
Baby Wreath
Get a small or large plain grape vine wreath. Tie on diapers, a few rattles, some bottles, and any other small baby items. The wreath can be used by mom later if she is crafty, or put some blocks on with the baby's name for a nursery decoration.
Coupon Book
Print or handwrite a coupon book for the baby and the rest of the family. Include offers for baby sitting, taking the older siblings to the movies, house cleaning, errand running, dishwashing, or dog walking. Put in two or three "emergency" coupons which can be redeemed for whatever the new mother needs. This can be the most useful gift of all, and it doesn't cost a dime! Print your coupons on pretty papers or unlined index cards and staple them together. Add stickers, stencils, or sentimental messages to give them a more personal feeling.
The price of your gift is not what matters. What truly counts is the love and thought you put behind whatever you choose to give. If you have children of your own, think back to what you needed most when your babies were a few months old. If you don't have kids, check with friends, relatives, and co-workers who do. They'll all be able to give you sage advice. The hostess for the shower might also have some ideas. And if you are being inundated with shower invitations, look in the clearance section to see if you can stock up for the next new arrival. Inexpensive baby shower gifts are easy to find. All they require is creativity and some thought. The main thing is to find something within your budget that shows your support. The entire purpose of a baby shower is to celebrate the arrival of a new life, so anything you choose that carries that theme is perfect, regardless of its cost.
