How Much to Spend on a Baby Shower Gift 👶

 

 

 Table of Contents

- Introduction

- Consider the Relationship

- Factor In Your Budget 

- Think About Group Gifting

- Baby Essentials Make Great Gifts 

- Focus on Quality over Quantity

- Customize the Gift

- Experiences Make Memorable Gifts

- Handmade Gifts Show You Care

- Gift Cards Are Always Appreciated

- Shop Smart and Look for Sales

- Wrap it Beautifully

- Add a Heartfelt Card

- Have Fun Picking Out the Gift!

- Conclusion

- Frequently Asked Questions

 

 Introduction

 

When you receive an invitation to a baby shower, one of the first questions that likely pops into your mind is how much should I spend on a gift? Picking out the perfect baby shower gift can seem like a daunting task. With so many adorable options to choose from, ranging from practical everyday essentials to sentimental keepsakes, it's difficult to know exactly how much money is appropriate and thoughtful to spend.

 

While there's no definitive right or wrong amount, the golden rule is that the dollar value matters less than choosing something both special for the parents and realistically fits within your own budget. There are many factors to consider in deciding the perfect baby shower gift amount for any expecting couple or parents-to-be. Follow these expanded tips to thoughtfully navigate your decision-making process and select a meaningful, useful, and budget-conscious present the new parents will genuinely appreciate!

 

 Consider the Relationship

 

The first major factor to think about is your relationship to the expecting mother or parents. Consider how close you are to them and what role they play in your life. For a baby shower honoring someone very close to you, like an immediate family member, very close friend, or sister, you'll likely want to spend a bit more to choose a higher end or luxury gift. For your nearest and dearest, a gift in the $75-$100 range is standard.

 

For close friends you see often but are not necessarily like family, a nice gift in the $50-$75 range is perfectly appropriate. You'll want to make it special without going overboard. If the parents-to-be are more distant relatives, casual friends, neighbors, or co-workers, you can feel comfortable spending less in the $25-$50 range. For mere acquaintances, under $25 is fine.

 

The closer you are to the guest of honor, the more you'll want the gift to feel special, personalized, and reflective of the relationship. Think through your specific connection to the expecting mother or parents. If one of your best friends that you want to honor in a deep way is having their first baby, spending on the higher end communicates your excitement and lets them know how much it means to you to celebrate their growing family.

 

For a distant cousin or colleague, you don't know extremely intimately, a smaller or less expensive gift is perfectly acceptable, as long as it comes sincerely from the heart. Consider how frequently you interact with the parents-to-be normally outside of the shower. If they are central people in your world that you see or speak to very regularly, show that by investing in a pricier and more thoughtful gift. For those on the outer edges of your social circles, a more modest present gets the message across nicely.

 

 Factor In Your Budget

 

The next major thing to look at is your own personal or household budget. What can reasonably fit into your finances for discretionary spending on a baby shower gift? As an overall guideline:

 

- For close family and very best friends, plan on spending around $75-$100.

 

- For somewhat close friends, cousins, and relatives, aim to spend $50-$75.

 

- For more casual friends, colleagues, neighbors, aim for $25-$50.

 

- For distant acquaintances, under $25 is fine.

 

Again, these dollar amounts are not strict rules, but rather benchmarks to keep in mind as you decide how much to allocate towards a baby shower gift while staying within your means. The thought truly does count more than the exact price tag, so give what you can reasonably afford while keeping your own financial situation in mind. Never feel obligated to overspend beyond your comfort zone or means.

 

For some context, Millennials today spend an average of $50 on baby shower gifts, while Gen Xers spend around $75. But everyone's budget differs, so follow your own income level and savings goals. If money is tight due to job changes, expenses, or other impacts - which can happen to all of us - then give what you can, get creative, or offer your time and assistance instead of a purchased item. Close loved ones will understand and appreciate your sentiment.

 

If you have the means to spend within the recommended ranges for the type of relationship, fantastic! But don't feel pressure to break the bank. As long as you give a gift sincerely from the heart, the expecting parents will be grateful for your thoughtfulness no matter the amount.

 

 Think About Group Gifting

 

For bigger ticket items on the parents' registry wish list, consider going in on a gift with other family members or baby shower attendees to make a more luxurious purchase possible. Combining your gift budgets with others allows you to aim higher and splurge on larger nursery necessities like strollers, carseats, gliders, and dressers that one person may not be able to buy solo.

 

Talk to other invitees ahead of time to coordinate who wants to contribute and go in on the bigger group gifts. It takes some planning, but this can be perfect for expensive travel systems, nursery furniture, or top of the line activity mats and baby monitors. Just take care not to unintentionally double up if another guest already has the same idea for that high end swing or changing table. Communication is key!

 

Going in on a group gift often makes the present even more special for the parents, as they feel the love and excitement from multiple people investing together. But you can always choose to give your own individual gift as well if you prefer picking out something personal. For your closest expecting loved ones, you may want to do both - pitch in on the stroller from the whole family or friend group, then also bring a heartfelt gift from just you.

 

 Baby Essentials Make Great Gifts

 

When thinking about what specific gift to purchase in your budgeted spending range, focus on giving the new parents items they will genuinely need and get repeated use out of. Think through the essential supplies that every expecting family requires - and remember that you can never have too many practical necessities! Useful supplies will always be appreciated.

 

Some foolproof gift ideas include:

 

- Diapers or wipes - Consider sizing up for bigger packages they'll use down the road

 

- Bottles - Multiple bottles are a must, in case some are in the dishwasher

 

- Burp cloths and washcloths - They can never have too many with spit up and messes

 

- Hooded towels and bath towels - Essential for bath time and playtime

 

- Baby blankets and swaddle blankets - Help keep baby cozy and comfy

 

- Baby face cloths and grooming kits - For gentle cleansing and care

 

- Diaper bags - Consider a fancy one for mom and practical one for dad

 

- Baby monitors and white noise machines - For watching and soothing baby

 

- Baby first aid kits and grooming kits - Fill with all the care essentials

 

- Feeding supplies - Bowls, plates, utensils, bibs, etc.

 

- Baby carrier - For hands free snuggles and bonding 

 

Focus on filling out the nursery with all the practical staples, and buy multiples or sets of items they will need backups of, like burp cloths, washcloths, bottles, and blankets. These essentials definitely get used up quickly! Stick to classic patterns and gender neutral colors like yellows, greens, greys, and whites that can work for any baby nursery theme or design.

 

Everyone loves receiving the basic necessities that may feel less exciting to purchase themselves. So help new parents check those essential supplies off their list with the everyday items they'll constantly be reaching for. Useful baby gear gifts will always be appreciated!

 

 Focus on Quality over Quantity

 

It's often said "quality over quantity" - and this definitely applies when purchasing baby shower gifts! Since babies grow and change so quickly in the first year, you'll want to look for items made of high-quality materials built to last through multiple children.

 

Prioritize super soft natural fabrics like 100% cotton, fleece, wool, and cashmere blends that will gently cuddle delicate newborn skin. And seek out reputable brands known for high safety standards and sustainable materials. For hard goods like strollers and nursery furniture, look for solid wood construction without toxic chemicals and coatings.

 

While it's tempting to buy a big haul of basic bodysuits and onesies, babies often end up fitting into each size for just weeks or months before growing out of things. So one thoughtfully chosen outfit, blanket, or decor item in a plush organic fabric will likely get more consistent use than a larger pile of cheaply made stuff.

 

Seek out quality materials from manufacturers focused on sustainability, like:

 

- Organic cotton clothing

- Soybean foam crib mattresses

- Locally sourced solid wood cribs and dressers 

- Wool and cashmere blend blankets

- Silicone or wood teethers and toys

- Non-toxic nursery wall paints

 

Plush fabrics crafted from bamboo rayon, modal, and TENCEL blends also make great ultra-soft baby shower gifts. Prioritize buttery soft materials against delicate skin to help the parents maximize longevity through multiple children.

 

And don't forget - quality extends beyond materials! Also seek out safety certifications, ethical manufacturing, excellent customer reviews, and durable construction as indicators of a high-quality, long-lasting baby item.

 

 Customize the Gift

 

What better way to make a gift extra special than adding a personal, customized touch? Many popular baby shower gifts like picture frames, bank boxes, blankets, and nursery decor can be customized with the child's name, monogram, or birth details.

 

Some personalized gift ideas include:

 

- Personalized nursery art - With the baby's name built into prints and wall hangings

 

- Embroidered blankets and pillows - Monogrammed with baby's initials

 

- Engraved piggy banks - To start saving sentimental coins

 

- Photo albums - Monogrammed with last name on the cover

 

- Baby books - With the family surname printed on the binding

 

- Keepsake boxes - For cherished baby mementos

 

- Night lights - With baby's name gently illuminated

 

- Picture frames - Get creative with baby name spelling designs!

 

- Nursery baskets - Monogrammed to keep toys and clothes organized

 

- Growth charts - To mark baby's progress

 

Adding the new arrival's name or monogram makes for an extra special keepsake they can treasure for years. For a sibling, include big brother/sister details. If you'll be at the shower, you can always wait to personalize until after knowing baby's name.

 

Most Etsy sellers and online stores like Shutterfly, VistaPrint, and Basic Invite offer personalized baby shower gift options. Or get crafty and DIY your own creation! However, you make it happen, customization adds meaningful flair.

 

 Experiences Make Memorable Gifts

 

Rather than purchasing more material objects they'll outgrow quickly, consider giving memories in the form of gift certificates and vouchers for family friendly activities. New parents will appreciate having special baby experiences and adventures to look forward to enjoying together.

 

Some fun experience gift ideas include: 

 

- Baby music or dance class series

- Mommy and me yoga sessions

- Memberships for children's museums

- Passes for the zoo, aquarium, or botanical gardens

- Swimming lessons

- Gymnastics or tumbling class packages

- Infant massage class series

 

Or think about gifting certificates for photography sessions like maternity photos, newborn photos, or milestone photos. Local play cafes and activity centers also offer great family memberships and packages.

 

Consider covering a night of babysitting so the new parents can enjoy a date night or afternoon for themselves to relax. Meal delivery gift cards are another life-saver so they can take a break from cooking.

 

Providing an opportunity to spend quality time bonding as a new family, make lasting memories, and explore their community makes a gift all the more meaningful. The options for creative baby experience gifts are endless!

 

 Handmade Gifts Show You Care

 

Nothing says "I made this just for you" like a handmade baby shower gift. Taking the time, care, and creativity to make something by hand really shows the parents how much their new baby means to you.

 

Get crafty with homemade gift ideas like:

 

- Knit or crochet baby blankets, sweaters, booties, and hats

 

- Sew baby onesies, rompers, bibs, burp cloths, and keepsake items like memory quilts

 

- Paint/woodburn nursery decor items like name signs, growth charts, shadow boxes, and canvases

 

- Arrange sentimental shadow boxes with baby photos, milestones, and special trinkets

 

- Craft ornate mobiles with flowers, clouds, and shapes for stimulation

 

- Design decoupage keepsake boxes embellished with ribbons, buttons, and lacquered finish

 

- Assemble baskets decorated with bows to hold baby toiletries, toys, blankets, etc. 

 

- Make sensory gifts like crinkle books, rattles, and teething rings

 

- Compose a baby-safe herb garden in a painted planter for the nursery

 

- Record lullabies, storybooks, and special messages to give digitally or on CD

 

- Collage together framed family photos from pregnancy and newborn shoots

 

Even beginner crafters can make something heartfelt! Simple gifts like blankets, bibs and burp cloths are great starter sewing projects. Paint ceramic piggy banks, frames, or vases by hand. Arrange a sentimental basket of books, baby's first ornament, and handwritten notes. Fuzzy knit items show care put into each stitch.

 

Handmaking a present tap into your creativity and lets you design something perfectly suited to their nursery. The time and love that goes into homemade gifts make them so incredibly thoughtful.

 

 Gift Cards Are Always Appreciated

 

When in doubt, you can never go wrong giving a gift card! Giving new parents a stored value card or certificate to popular shops gives them flexibility to purchase items they really want or need themselves.

 

Some great gift card options include:

 

- Multi-store gift cards like Visa, Mastercard, and American Express

 

- Department stores like Target, Walmart, and BuyBuy Baby

 

- Baby clothing retailers like Carter's, H&M, and Janie & Jack

 

- Toy and book stores like Pottery Barn Kids

 

- Amazon, Etsy, eBay for endless baby supply options  

 

- Chain restaurants that offer delivery, like DoorDash and GrubHub

 

- Streaming services like Netflix or Disney+ for family entertainment

 

- Experiences like children's museums, zoos, spas, photography studios

 

When you're unsure exactly what to choose, gift cards allow the expecting parents to apply the credit exactly where they need most. And fussy relatives will always appreciate the option to pick something themselves!

 

Opt for e-gift cards they can print at home or claim online when possible. See if you can have physical gift cards sent directly to their address. Include gift receipts whenever feasible so they can exchange if needed.

 

Giving gift cards takes the guesswork out of selecting a specific item. Let them fill in what they really want or need!

 

 Shop Smart and Look for Sales

 

To maximize your gift budget, shop strategically and keep an eye out for deals and discounts! Here are some savvy shopping tips:

 

- Peruse end of season clearance sales. Stock up on deeply discounted winter clothes as summer approaches, or snag swimsuits and sunhats when autumn hits.

 

- Look for blowout clearance sales right after holidays like Christmas, Easter, and Valentine's Day when stores want to unload seasonal inventory. You can score strollers for a fraction of retail cost.

 

- Sign up for email newsletters from favorite baby brands and monitors sales. Buy Buy Baby, Carter's, Hanna Andersson, Melissa & Doug, Graco, Uppababy and more run regular promos.

 

- Check Amazon Lightning deals and flash sales, especially around Prime Day. Great opportunity to save on big ticket items like high chairs.

 

- Don't overlook Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist for major secondhand price cuts on large nursery gear, barely used in great condition.

 

- Join deal hunting Facebook Groups for tips on upcoming sales, coupon codes, and clearance items.

 

- Use cashback sites like Rakuten to earn percentage rebates on purchases from major retailers.

 

- Stack coupons, promo codes, and in-store discounts for maximum possible savings.

 

Being a savvy sale shopper allows you to stick to your spending budget while still getting great bang for your buck on nicer items. With strategic timing, you can often score dream strollers or dressers at 25-50% off retail prices simply by pouncing at the right sales moment.

 

Follow deal hunting blogs, shop off-season clearance, sign up for promo emails, and keep an eye out for coupons to give the very best within your baby shower gift budget. Why pay more than you need to?

 

 Wrap it Beautifully

 

They say presentation matters - and this is so true when it comes to giving baby shower gifts! You'll want to dress up your present with gorgeous wrapping paper, bows, ribbons, and other embellishments that make it truly stand out.

 

Make your gift memorable with:

 

- Adorable baby wrapping paper - Choose gender neutral patterns, cute animals, flowers, or superheroes

 

- Hessian burlap - For a rustic chic earthy vibe

 

- Vibrant solid wrapping paper - Particularly in yellows, mints, sky blues, and pinks

 

- Recycled kraft paper - An eco-friendly unbleached option, great for tying twine around

 

- Tissue paper - Crinkle cut, butterflies, or colored patterns matching your main paper

 

- Cute gift bags - Pick neutral colors, fun prints, or solid bolds like red for huge impact

 

- Raffia, ribbons, and bows - Add extra girly flair and texture

 

- Twine, jute, or rope - For a natural earthy style statement

 

- Washi tape - Metallics, florals, and bold patterns make fun accents

 

- Fabric scraps - Cut up receiving blankets or swaddle cloths for sweet ties

 

- Gift tags - Handwritten notes or printed labels marked "Baby" or "New Baby"

 

- Stickers - Whimsical alphabets, baby feet, rattles, pacifiers, elephants

 

- Flowers and greenery - Tuck in sprigs of lavender, rose buds, eucalyptus

 

- Paper flowers - Add handmade tissue or crepe blossoms for an extra special touch

 

- Glitter, confetti, popcorn - For celebratory pizzazz inside the wrapping

 

Have fun brainstorming creative ways to wrap up your present uniquely - coloring outside the lines is encouraged! Odd shaped boxes, bags, and oversized items can be tricky to wrap neatly, but they present an opportunity to get innovative. Try covering a large gift in complementary patterned fabric like receiving blankets for a delightful reveal as parents unwrap the gift.

 

Top it all off with thoughtful notes on gift tag, and maybe some themed extras like silver pacifier charms or baby block letters spelling out "baby." Make the unwrapping an exciting experience!

 

 Add a Heartfelt Card

 

No baby shower gift is complete without an accompanying card! Always enclose a sweet handwritten note, congratulatory message, or well wishes to go along with the present. After excitedly unwrapping, the parents will read your card and be touched by the meaning behind it.

 

Some tips for memorable baby shower cards:

 

- Handwrite your message for a personal touch - consider a folded over notecard or letter

 

- Shop for blank cards with baby motifs - storks, carriages, onesies, cribs, pacifiers 

 

- Print your own card and customize with baby stickers and washi tape

 

- Use digital services like Paperless Post for beautiful e-cards

 

- Pop-up and interactive cards add fun surprises

 

- Look for neutral messages - "For Baby" "New Baby" "Baby Girl/Boy"

 

- Include gift receipts if applicable, and label gifts "To: Baby" "From: You"

 

- Decorations like glitter, ribbons, pressed flowers make it festive

 

- Attach a photo voucher or ultrasound pic as a keepsake

 

- Share an inspirational quote, poem, or short wish for their new family

 

- Handpick lyrics from a meaningful song for the parents

 

- Tell a sweet anecdote about how you know the mom and dad if applicable

 

- Express why you're grateful to celebrate their baby and this new chapter

 

- Wish them moments of love, joy, snuggles, wonder and rest as new parents

 

- Close with a warm sentiment like "Welcome to the world little one!" or "Auntie loves you already!"

 

However, you choose to format your card, a heartfelt message is key. Handwritten notes expressing your excitement for their new arrival, congratulations, and well wishes go a long way. Make it personal!

 

 Have Fun Picking Out the Gift!

 

Most importantly, remember that giving a baby shower gift should feel fun, not stressful! This is a happy moment to celebrate new parents and welcome a precious new life. Once you decide on a thoughtful gift idea within your budget, enjoy the shopping process with a joyful spirit.

 

Here are some tips for making it a fun experience:

 

- Browse gift ideas on Pinterest or registry checklists to get inspired

 

- Make a girl shopping date out of hitting up boutiques and baby stores

 

- Bring bubbly or treats to enjoy while shopping with loved ones

 

- Take time carefully selecting sweet keepsake wrapping paper and ribbons

 

- Sip coffee and scout cute Etsy finds from local artisans online

 

- If you knit or sew, put on fun music while crafting something homemade

 

- Write your card listening to favorite tunes - dance around while brainstorming messages!

 

- Snap some silly selfies trying on baby clothes or rocking strollers around the store

 

- Indulge your inner child playing with toys, books, stuffed animals and imagining baby reactions

 

- Feel the love as you daydream about their sweet angel enjoying your gift

 

The hunt for that perfect present and vision of the new parents smiling and feeling loved when opening it is a beautiful experience. This is not just another gift, but a heartwarming honor. Enjoy the process!

 

 Conclusion

 

Choosing that perfect baby shower present with countless amazing options available may seem overwhelming initially. But keeping the parents' needs, relationship, and budget in mind helps simplify the decision-making process.

 

Remember, the dollar amount matters far less than the thought and care put into selecting a useful, high-quality item they'll appreciate. Handmade, personalized, or experience-based gifts often end up meaning the most over time anyway. Wrap it creatively, include a heartfelt card, have fun hunting for that special something, and know that your thoughtfulness shines through above all else.

 

When in doubt, keep it classic with diapers, blankets, gift cards, books, essentials like shampoo and lotion, or contributing to a big-ticket stroller or nursery item. And get ready to celebrate the new arrival! Whether you spend $10 or $100, your gift will be cherished when given unconditionally from the heart.

 

 Frequently Asked Questions

 

 What is an average amount to spend on a baby shower gift?

 

For close friends and family, plan on spending around $50-100. For more distant friends/relatives, $25-50 is typical. For acquaintances and coworkers, $15-25 is standard. But focus on choosing a thoughtful gift within your budget!

 

 What if I can't afford to spend that much?

 

Don't feel obligated to overspend! It's fine to give a smaller or homemade gift if money is tight. The parents will appreciate your thoughtfulness no matter what.

 

 What are some budget-friendly gift ideas?

 

Handmade items, books, small necessities like shampoo and lotion, picture frames, basic clothing, blankets, and other nursery items or decor make great affordable gifts. Shop sales too!

 

 Should I give clothes for a baby shower?

 

Onesies and outfits can make cute gifts, just stick to basic patterns and fabrics in larger sizes they will grow into. Avoid overly personalized items in case tastes differ. Focus on timeless everydaybasics they can mix and match.

 

 What should I avoid giving?

 

Avoid big loud plastic toys, overly theme-centric items in case nursery decor differs, and anything overly personalized to the point of dictating their choices. Also be cautious with super plush animals and blankets depending on baby safety guidelines.

 

 Is it ok to give a gift card?

 

Absolutely! Gift cards to baby stores, Amazon, restaurant delivery, and experiences give flexibility. Some parents even prefer gift cards to get necessities like diapers and wipes. Gift cards are great for fussy gift givers too!

 

 Should I bring a gift if attending virtually?

 

Yes, you can still send a gift even if attending online! Have it shipped to parents' home, or send an e-gift card they can print/use electronically. Virtual guests are still expected to provide a gift if possible.

 

 What kind of gift do I give for a second baby?

 

Tailor gifts to the new baby's name, give age appropriate toys for older sibling too, or focus on necessities like diapers. Personalized gifts work great for a second baby. Avoid big ticket repeats.

 

 How early should I shop for a baby shower gift?

 

Aim to buy 1-2 weeks in advance. This gives time to ship or wrap it, but is still close enough that registry hasn't changed much. Too early risks changes, but don't wait until the last minute either.

 

 How can I save money on shipping costs?

 

Look for free shipping options, in-store pick up, or registry gifting that lets you send to parents' home for free. Plan ahead to avoid paying high last minute express shipping.

 

 What makes a good baby shower gift card?

 

Open-ended cards like Visa, Target, or Amazon give flexibility. Or choose store-specific cards to places like BuyBuyBaby, Etsy, Carter's clothing, DoorDash, etc. Go for $50-100 amounts. Include gift receipt for exchanges.