I was newly pregnant with my first child and finishing up my first book on the experience of pregnancy. The final chapter read “That Old Gray Mare..She Ain’t What She Used To Be.” I burst into tears immediately.
Pregnancy is hard. The right gift can brighten her day, comfort and protect her body, calm her fears and prepare her for the journey ahead. I polled the girls and thought back to my own pregnancies. We have compiled a list perfect for “Congratulations!” (Or getting back in her good graces!).
Pampering Gifts: A pregnant body undergoes tremendous changes. There is no time in a woman’s life that is more in need of a little help and relaxation. For do-it-yourselfers, a book and a bath set can really wash away those aches and pains. Spa days are an oldie but a goodie. Pedicures, facials or a cut and color can make her feel like a star again. Our favorite gifts were body care gifts that would help us preserve our pre-pregnancy forms. Mama Mio Skincare makes an award winning line that really delivers!
Books/Magazines/DVDs: Especially true during her first pregnancy, she will want to learn as much as possible about the baby, her body and the events of D-Day (birth). Subscriptions to pregnancy and parenting magazines are great. Books that didn’t insult our intelligence or terrify us with only the down-sides of pregnancy are the best (try From the Hips). Another great option is a childbirth class on DVD. She can learn at her own pace and save money on those time-challenging group classes.
Journals/Scrapbooks: There are so many emotions and life-altering moments/changes associated with a pregnancy. Yet, many people don’t even think to chronicle it until it is too late. Buying her a journal or a scrapbook will allow her to record moments and pictures that she can share with her future children or look back in a few months when she can truly “appreciate” her experience (with a margarita in her hand!).
Clothes/Accessories: An arsenal of clothing is required during pregnancy. This is because a pregnant woman’s body changes on a sometimes daily basis. She needs different sizes and different fits to get her through the nine months. Accessories are also a great option. They will last past the end of the pregnancy and a great accessory can help her focus on the areas of her body that aren’t spreading (like her neck!).
Cravings: That little pink line is usually closely followed with a set of cravings that must be addressed! Pick up dinner from that Mexican restaurant she has been dreaming about or offer to make a midnight run to the ice cream shop. Gift cards are nice, because they allow her to use them when the craving hits high-gear!
Coupons: I hate giving personalized coupon books, but I love getting them. If you can put in the effort to perform the given task at a moments notice, she will love the thoughtfulness.
Gifts of Comfort: A pregnancy body pillow is a must. Pajamas made for her growing body and plush slippers can be a great end-of-day reward. If she is experiencing morning sickness, drug-free remedies can be a life saver!
Meals: Many pregnant women simply run out of batteries by the time dinner rolls around. Give her a night off with meal delivery or one of those great workshops that help you make a week of dinners in an afternoon.
Birth Gifts: Pregnancy almost always produces anxiety about the upcoming D-Day. Helping her feel prepared with a pre-packed hospital bag, a birth ball (maybe with a DVD on how to use it?) or a calming CD of her favorite music are all great ideas. Find out if her hospital allows champagne. They often will allow you to use their refrigerator and could help you create a celebration kit with strawberries and chocolate cigars.
Post Pregnancy Gifts: Another area where mom-to-be wants to feel prepared. Think about items that are for mom as much as baby. Examples include a baby sling or a nursing pillow, because they will make her new life easier. Also, try keepsake gifts, teething jewelry or a great diaper bag that looks like a purse. The key is, unless it is time for the baby shower, think of things that are geared towards mom. This is how you are going to brighten her day and make her feel like a star.
That’s it. If you have an idea that you think we should include in our next list, email me. Happy Gifting!
Give a Save-the-Date party favor. Use metal napkin holders and place save-the-date magnets on them. It ensures everyone is sitting together when the news is broken and even Martha Stuart would be proud of this creative and appealing table setting!
