Baby showers are adorable, but let’s be real—how many matching onesies and packs of baby wipes can one family handle? I almost never shop directly off the registry. Instead, I love giving gifts that are thoughtful, memorable, and sometimes a little cheeky.
Here are my tried-and-true baby shower gifts that always get a laugh, a grateful hug, or both:
1. Something for Mom (Because Everyone Forgets Her)
Newsflash: the mom just did the hardest job in the room. While most people are focused on tiny socks and swaddles, I like to make sure she feels seen. My signature? A super soft and cozy robe she can wear in the hospital during those first post-delivery days. It’s cozy, flattering, and way more fun to unwrap than nipple cream.
Pro tip: If the shower has a diaper raffle, I skip the Pampers and bring Disposable period underwear (for postpartum days) instead.
Trust me—the mom will thank you forever, and everyone else will crack up.
2. Personalized Baby Gear
If the baby’s name has already been revealed, I love having something personalized made just for them. A monogrammed blanket, custom night light, or custom name puzzle instantly feels special.
If the name is still top secret, I get creative: once, I gifted a onesie with the mom’s first initial + dad’s first initial = “Baby.” (Example: A + G = Baby). It was such a hit and gave everyone a sneak peek into the family’s vibe without spoiling the surprise.
3. Something Sentimental & One-of-a-Kind
One of my favorite ways to gift is by finding something sentimental that carries a story with it. For example, while on a trip to New Orleans, I stumbled upon the most charming children’s boutique called Rendezvou Linnen and Lace run by an older woman who hand-sewed baby clothes from deadstock linens sourced around the world.
I ended up buying a beautiful christening dress and bonnet made from 1980s Irish linen, complete with intricate embroidery. It was one-of-a-kind, something the family could cherish and even pass down for generations.
These are the gifts people never forget. They feel personal, irreplaceable, and you’ll never have to worry about someone else showing up with the exact same thing.
4. My Family Tradition: The Fisher-Price Glow Seahorse
No matter if the baby is a boy or girl, I always buy a Fisher-Price Glow Seahorse. When my daughter was little, hers (nicknamed Stormie) was her most coveted toy. It played lullabies and glowed softly, soothing her through the night for years.
Growing up, it was tradition in my family to gift a Glow Worm at baby showers—but since those are harder to find these days, the Glow Seahorse is the next best thing. I genuinely believe every baby needs one of these magical little friends. It’s the kind of gift that doesn’t just get used—it becomes part of the baby’s story.
5. Wrap It Right: Reusable Gift Bags
Let’s be real—wrapping paper gets torn up in five seconds flat and then tossed in the trash. Instead, I love using reusable fabric gift bags or even a cute basket that doubles as nursery storage. Not only does it make your present stand out in the gift pile, but it’s also eco-friendly and practical.
Moms always appreciate an extra storage tote or pretty bag that they can repurpose for toys, laundry, or even future baby showers. It’s like sneaking in a bonus gift without any extra effort.
Why I Gift This Way
Baby registries are practical, but sometimes they miss the magic. By bringing something for mom, adding humor, carrying on tradition, or gifting a one-of-a-kind keepsake, my gifts always feel one-of-a-kind. And honestly, those moments of laughter and sentiment are what baby showers are all about.
✨ Tip for Readers: If you’re heading to a baby shower soon, shop smarter: mix one registry item (so parents know you’re listening) with something fun and heartfelt. It’s the best of both worlds.
✨ Affiliate Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you decide to purchase through them—at no extra cost to you. You don’t have to shop through my links, but if you do, just know it helps keep my coffee cup full (and my blog full of fun posts like this!). Thank you for supporting me—it truly means the world. 💕
XOXO- Amber Doll