Shopping for the arrival of a new baby can be overwhelming for even the most seasoned shopaholic.
Karen Reardanz, director of editorial and brand at Babylist, an online registry for parents, says to avoid getting hooked on what’s trending and instead focus on what works for your lifestyle.
“Do you live in an urban area where you have limited space, or will you be taking public transportation a lot? Then you might want a lightweight stroller that folds and stores away easily,” she said.
Or, “perhaps you have a dog and are wondering how you’ll care for it and your new baby at the same time — then you can register for a dog walker.
Thinking about how you live your life and what’s important to you can be a helpful way to think about what you’ll need for your baby.”
Reardanz is also seeing an uptick in registry items geared for mom, as well as cash funds or gift cards, for a meal delivery service for instance, or to put toward bigger items.
Ultimately, for baby showers, the gift does count, so make it something thoughtful.
Babies and their gums will love this NY foodie staple. The Salty Sonny Teether is eco-friendly and made of 100% natural rubber. $20 at PiccolinyShop.com
The Salty Sonny Teether for teething babies. HandoutA soft and sweet embroidered sweater will be the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Modern Moments by Gerber, baby girl sweater. $20 at Walmart.com
A baby modeling a Modern Moments by Gerber sweater. HandoutPostpartum can be tough, so give some much-needed nourishment. The New Mom Box is curated by nutrition experts who specialize in birthing bodies. $114.96 at Daily-Harvest.com
Mom Box makes meals for post-partum mothers. HandoutAttitude’s plastic-free Pregnancy Smooth Skin Duo will give mama’s skin a much-needed boost. Infused with natural fragrances and nourishing ingredients like coconut oil and shea butter, it helps soothe body and belly through all stages of pregnancy. $40 at AttitudeLiving.com
Attitude’s body butter and stretch-mark prevention oil. HandoutShare some Big Apple love with this Baby New Yorker Organic Gift Set. Includes onesie, swaddle, pacifier clip, book, rattles, bib and cuddly toys. $230 at Estella-NYC.com
New York City themed clothes and toys from estella-nyc.com. HandoutCustom hand-smocked pima cotton gown and hat is made to order (allow 8 to 12 weeks). $79.20 at AnnReevesKids.com
Custom made gowns and hats for newborns from annreeveskids.com. HandoutGive the gift of a keepsake doll that can be personalized with a handstitched monogram and outfit of your choice. $62 at HazelVillage.com
A customizable doll from hazelvillage.com. HandoutAny sleep-deprived parent will appreciate a nursery humidifier that is doctor-recommended to help baby sleep better. Includes a filter and Little Dreams aroma kit. $150 at GetCanopy.co
A nursery humidifier with a filter and little dreams aroma kit. HandoutAvoid meltdowns with Bibs Glow in the Dark Latex Pacifier. $17 for 2-pack at Target.com.
Mutha’s body oil and body butter for new moms. Handout