Five Unique Baby Gifts That Will Delight Your Recipient

Is it just me, or does it seem like there's a nearly never-ending schedule of baby showers these days? They're such special events, but it can feel hard to bring a gift that's not the standard Diaper Genie, stuffed animal, or cute pajamas. That's why I've rounded up five great ideas that are a little more personal, and geared towards helping your friend or family member memorialize their new baby's special moments.

1. The Ultimate Baby Book

Okay, I might be biased, but in my opinion this is basically the ultimate sweet, useful, and thoughtful baby gift! The Ultimate Baby Book is a package that helps parents make a keepsake book out of their memories and artifacts of pregnancy and their baby's first year. The premium package includes a 24x18x4 crush-free box that parents will fill with keepsakes and artifacts– like ultrasound pictures, baby blankets, and more! It also includes writing prompts to fill out and include in the book, with special memories and moments from the first year. Parents will send the box back with their baby artifacts, and our team here at Ultimate Baby Book will craft a beautiful, custom book that preserves their memories. It even includes a writing prompt that's a great baby shower activity! This is truly such a unique and thoughtful gift– and they'll remember it forever. Get yours here.

2. Parent Care Kit

This one is great, because it can be crafted to the individual expectant parents' needs and likes! Create a basket or bag with everything parents might need during and after their birth. Especially if you've given birth, think of all the things you wished you had! Include favorite snacks or candy, a cozy pillowcase for the hospital, extra deodorant, mini-spa items like a fancy hand cream or nail polish, maybe even some mini bottles of wine! It'll make the expectant parent feel so cared for, and you'll likely get a text after the birth appreciating your thoughtful gift! If you don't want to make it yourself, I like this one for a more spa-themed option, this one for snacks + self-care, and this one for a HUGE, little-bit-of-everything kit (it even includes a robe!).

3. Newborn Photography Session

Newborn photos can be such a special way to capture the early days of your new family, and this is something parents can forget about amongst the chaos! Buy a session with a well-recommended photographer in advance, and then let parents cash it in when they feel ready. It also gives parents the opportunity to get dressed up, which can always be fun after the post-partum whirlwind! Plus, it doubles as a gift of sweet home décor– you can pay the photographer for a few prints in advance, too, and maybe even include some frames! We love all the creative ideas for newborn photo ideas.

4. Takeout Gift Cards or a Meal Train

If you're a parent, you know the time when you come back from the hospital with your newborn can be super-overwhelming, especially for first-time parents. Sleeping schedules are way off, the house is a mess, and showers are few and far between. That's why getting a few Doordash or Postmates gift cards can be one of the best baby shower gifts ever. Sure, it's not as fluffy and cute to unwrap as a teddy bear, but we guarantee it'll be a huge relief to parents when they get home and realize they don't even have milk or cereal.

If you want to make this idea a bit more personal, take on the task of organizing a meal train for new parents. This lets other friends and family members share the love, and can be a cheaper option, too. I still remember a huge lasagna a friend made after my second son was born– we’ve seriously considered having a third just to score another legendary lasagna!

5. Personalized Name Puzzle

Okay, is it just me or did everyone have one of these? They're always super special toys, not to mention they're great for fine motor skills, learning to spell, etc. This one from Damhorst Toys is a classic and comes in several styles and colors - I can vouch for their stools lasting forever (my daughter is nine now)! There’s even one that has a back and functions as a seat. This Etsy shop has some options for cute designs and we love this one that’s a little bit modern. Personalized stools are a great gift for after baby is born, and they look as cute as they are functional. They seem to be the one baby gift that people keep as the kid grows up.