THE TOP 5 BEST GIFTS FOR NEW & EXPECTING PARENTS

When I find out a friend or family member is expecting I give three obligatory gifts; a congratulations gift/gender reveal gift, a baby shower/sprinkle present, and a gift when the baby arrives. I typically wait to give my “congratulations” gift once they have announced the pregnancy or at a gender reveal party. Once the baby is born and we visit the newest family member I bring a third present. The first and third presents are significantly less money than what I would spend on a shower present, but still a thoughtful way to let someone know you are excited for them. These gift ideas are perfect for a sprinkle too. I strongly believe in sticking to the registry or giving a monetary gift for a baby shower. If I stray from “the list” it is typically a supplemental gift.

Here is my guide to some of the most memorable things I received during and after my pregnancy that I was not registered for. - X0 Amanda

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Boujee Blankie

If you are like me, you are probably saying “NOT ANOTHER BLANKET”, but hear me out! I received an abundance of blankets when I found out I was pregnant. My mom also had heirloom blankets she saved for my child. So why did I include a blanket on this list? Because a boujee blanket is a must! A really nice blanket for special occasions is a great accessory in my opinion. I received a gift basket from Swankie Blankie with several items in it including a blanket, burp clothes, a hooded towel, and a security blanket. Every time we use them I’m complimented and my son loves the textures. It is silky, furry, and plush. I wish I could get one for myself! Another great option is Little Giraffe blankets. Nordstrom has included them in their Anniversary Sale in the past. If it fits into your gifting budget The Avalon Baby Blanket from Hermes is amazing. The classic Hermes logo is the ultimate boujee blanket.

Customized Bracelet

I wear my personalized bracelets daily. I have two different variations with my son’s name and I am absolutely obsessed! I love stacking them and found myself purchasing more to add to my collection. Nic N Bella are completely customizable. You can select your favorite beads, add charms, customize names and birthstone. They ship nationwide and the options are endless. The owner, Christine, is quick to respond and even sent me photos of examples before I purchased. Nic N Bella make bracelets for men, women, and children. There is something for everyone! There are a lot of bracelet companies out there, but this is by far the best quality I have seen. Check them out online or on Instagram!

Food & Florals

Now, more than ever I encourage people to support local restaurants, bakers, and florists. My husband and I always tried to bring a meal or dessert when we were first visiting the newest member of the family. Pre-Covid this was always one of my favorite things to do for friends and family. Under normal circumstances there can be so many visitors that ordering and/or prepping food becomes costly for the host. AND WHO HAS TIME TO COOK WITH A NEW BABY?! My son was born in May 2020 at the height of the COVID pandemic and we did not have any visitors at the hospital and very few at the house. It was so thoughtful of our friends to sent flower arrangements to welcome us home. They even ordered from our favorite local florist, Steve's Flower Market, in Chicago. We did the same for our friends with multiple children. They didn’t need another outfit or toy, so we sent flowers and brought food when we visited. During the pandemic, family sent us food and it was a lifesaver. Besides local establishments we received salads and snacks from Farmer’s Fridge that we loved. Another amazing local business we have supported during quarantine is Britty Bakes. She has made the most amazing cookies, cake pops and other sweet treats that are perfectly wrapped and delivered for you! We have ordered custom cookies to send to friends and loved ones who we could not celebrate with in person. Britt can create anything, and everything is sure to taste delicious. Our lives have all been impacted by this pandemic, but it is as simple as sending a Starbucks e-gift card to a new mom so she can grab a coffee after a rough night to let her know you are thinking about her. Food and florals sound basic, but still makes a big impact

A Meaningful Onesie

A meaningful onesie is typically my go to gift. You can find a onesie for everyone and everything nowadays! I have purchased television, movie, sports team, and nationality themed onesies. I’ve received personalized onesie with my son’s name. We have been given and gifted so many hometown (Chicago) themed onesies. I’ve bought food, wine, beer, and coffee connoisseurs onesies for their children. I have even found a math themed onesie for a teacher in the past. One of my favorite brands for onesies is Emerson and Friends. I found their products at a local boutique and have been hooked ever since. If you reside in Florida or Chicago they have some unique and creative hometown designs.

For Moms

This gift is for Moms not 4moms! My best friend said something that resonated strongly with me when she gave me one of the most thoughtful gifts when she found out I was pregnant and after I gave birth. She said, “your child will get almost all the gifts and attention moving forward, but don’t forget about yourself”. No truer words have been spoken. She gifted me a Burt’s Bees Mama Bee Gift Set that can be purchased on Amazon. I used the Belly Butter throughout my pregnancy to prevent stretch marks and keep my skin hydrated. The peppermint leg and foot cream was a nice treat before bed when my feet were killing me. Burt’s Bees products are natural, and I use them for my son too. It also comes in a convenient tin so you can skip the wrapping! Once I had my son she sent the sweetest gift box filled with items for me that included tea, local honey, a face mask kit, food, an amazing smelling candle, rose wine and chocolates. This gift idea is easily customizable for your budget and recipient. Some of my favorite clean beauty products are from a local shop in Chicago called Scratch Goods. They ship nationwide and have pre-made kits that make shopping even easier. Another great idea for an expecting and new mom is a gift card for a massage, a manicure or pedicure. It was nice to be recognized and pampered considering I did all the hard work. Being pregnant and a mom is never easy, but a face mask and a glass of wine at night helps!