But, these adventurous gifts can also be a big old bust. Every now and then there is the out-of-the box choice that misses the mark (by a long shot) and ends up under the crib (or in the annual summer yard sale). Here are some thoughts to avoid the latter.
Making the call to give a gift that is not on the registry should be largely based on the gift receiver. And, as a general rule, if you don't know the receiver well or you're just not sure - choose a gift on the registry. Or, you could do both: a registered for and non-registered for gift. Just keep in mind that there are a lot of registry items that the parents-to-be truly need. Meaning, as much as you may think that the monogrammable baby snowsuit is the truly perfect gift, don't underestimate the perfection of a basic baby gift. And don't underestimate the happiness that essential, non-creative, non-personalized gifts can bring.
Here are a few ideas:
- Personalized Name Gifts - A gift that is personalized with the baby's name, initials or the first letter of his or her name
- Knit and Crocheted Gifts - These are really popular and cover a range of items, many of which can be considered essentials. Things like blankets, hats and swaddle pods (a trend that I'm seeing and hearing about constantly these days - is it new or did I just previous miss it?)
- Holiday Gifts - For the right family, holiday themed gifts help the baby jump right into a cherished family festivity or tradition
- Books - These are nursery fixtures and will get tons of use through childhood
- Handprints and Footprints - Memorializing the baby's tiny hand or feet (or both) might be right in the parent's wheelhouse
- Year of Firsts Book - These scrapbooks allow the parents to easily chronicle all the amazing firsts that happen in year one
