Creating the Perfect Baby Gift Registry: Essentials vs. Extras

So, once you've had that initial conversation with the mom-to-be or the parents-to-be about timing the baby shower (discussed in this post), you'll want to encourage or help them create a baby gift registry. 

When creating the registry, it's a good idea to divide items into necessities and extras to help friends and family choose how they want to participate.  It will really help you, as the planner and host of the event, to get insight into the guests they want to invite and the themes and colors that they gravitate towards, which will make the next stages of planning the shower even easier (future blog posts on these elements).

(photo credit to Eli Pluma on Unsplash.)

Necessities:

1. Diapers: You'll need plenty of diapers in various sizes.
2. Baby Clothes: Bodysuits, sleepers, onesies, and weather-appropriate outfits.
3. Baby Gear (great for group gifts):
   • Crib or Bassinet: A safe place for the baby to sleep.
   • Car Seat: A must for safe transportation.
   • Stroller: For on-the-go convenience.
   • Baby Body Carrier or Wrap: Great for bonding and convenience.
4. Feeding Essentials:
   • Bottles and Nipples: If not breastfeeding exclusively.
   • Breast Pump: If planning to breastfeed.
   • Formula: If not breastfeeding.
   • Bottle Warmer: Optional but helpful.
   • High Chair: For later stages.
5. Nursery Furniture:
   • Changing Table or Pad: For diaper changes.
   • Rocking Chair or Glider: Comfortable for late-night feedings.
6. Bedding:
   • Crib Sheets and Blankets: Make sure they fit the crib snugly.
7. Baby Bathing Supplies:
   • Baby Bathtub: Makes bath time safer.
   • Baby Shampoo, Soap, and Towels: Gentle products for baby's skin.
8. Health and Safety:
   • Baby Monitor: To keep an eye on the baby during sleeptime.
   • First Aid Kit: For minor health concerns.
9. Diapering Supplies on the go:
   • Diaper Bag: Look for one that's easy to carry or able to be attached to stroller.
   • Diaper Cream and Wipes: For diaper changes.

Extras:

1. Toys and Books: Rattles, teething toys, and age-appropriate books.
2. Decorative Items: Nursery decor, wall art, and mobiles. (great DIY projects that we'll talk about in later posts).
   
3. Baby Clothes: Cute outfits beyond the essentials (knitters and crocheters, here's where you come in!).
4. Nursery Organization: Shelving, organizers, and baskets.
5. Baby Grooming Kit: Nail clippers, hairbrush, etc.
6. Baby Swing or Bouncer: For soothing and entertainment.
7. Breastfeeding Accessories: Nursing pillow, nursing cover.
8. Baby Proofing: Outlet covers, cabinet locks, etc.
9. Travel Accessories: Travel crib, portable changing pad.

 (photo credit to Elliot Verhaeren on Unsplash)

Remember, every family's needs and preferences will vary widely, so it's another topic of conversation to have with the parents-to-be.  And, it really will provide insights into other aspects of the baby shower planning that we'll address in future posts.  For now, help the parents prioritize the necessities and fill out the registry, and the extras can be added later if friends and family are looking for additional gift options.