Department store gift registries are where most people go to buy baby shower gifts, but friends and family may prefer to give a unique baby gift to the mother-to-be that is not found in a registry. Even better is the unusual shower gift that would be a special treat the new mother might not give herself.
If the search for a unique shower gift has become impossible, here are some of the best and most unusual gift ideas.
Maid or Cleaning Service Makes a Great Unique Baby Shower Gift
When the new baby comes along, who has time to clean the house? Nearly all cleaning services will provide a one-time cleaning for the new mother that would be a tremendous help to her. If paying for house cleaning or maid service is too expensive, consider having friends and family provide housecleaning for the first month as part of a shower gift.
Catering or a Personal Chef for the First Week Can Be a Help to the New Mother
Cooking healthy meals becomes another impossible task with a newborn. Some private catering services will deliver one or more meals for the new family after baby comes and this would be a great unusual shower gift for that special mom-to-be. If money is tight, why not be the organizer and have friends and family sign up to bring meals to the family for the first week or two after baby comes? Be sure to check with the new mother to see if there are any food allergies in the family.
A Unique Gift for a Baby Shower is to Hire a Birth Doula
Birth doulas are an unusual but wonderful shower gift for an expectant mother who would not be able to afford one on her own or as a special treat. Doulas provide support and information to the expectant couple before, during and after birth. Numerous studies show the benefit of using a doula and surveys of new mothers indicate that the doula is often the most valued member of the birth team. Fees for doula services vary, often by experience level and region.
Why Not Pay for a Lactation Consultation for the Breastfeeding Mother?
Mothers who plan to breastfeed rarely get off to nursing without having a few questions or concerns. A unique shower gift for an expectant mother is to pay for a breastfeeding consultation. The best time to arrange for a consultation is sometime in the first week or two after birth. Fees for a certified lactation consultant also vary.
Arranging for a Postpartum Doula is a Unique Baby Shower Gift
Another invaluable helper for the mother after baby comes is the postpartum doula. In addition to breastfeeding help, postpartum doulas often provide assistance with baby care, household organization and may even help with the care of baby at night. Postpartum doulas often charge by the hour and fees can range depending on the services provided.
What about a Day at the Spa for the New Mother?
A special treat for the new mother that she probably won't think to give to herself is a day at the spa. She might enjoy a facial or a manicure/pedicure combination. A massage would be another much-appreciated and unique way to make the mother's baby shower special. Most spas will offer gift certificates for all of their services so that mom can schedule her appointment when it is most convenient.
Baby shower gifts do not have to be boring. Why not give the new mom a unique gift that will make her feel special and loved?
VAL101
Brenda Lane - Brenda Lane is a published author, Lamaze certified childbirth educator, DONA certified birth doula and approved birth doula trainer.
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