Traditional gifts are the gifts that cover the basic needs of the baby. It also includes things there never seems to be enough of or extras will be helpful to cut down on the frequency that laundry needs to be done. Traditional gifts can stand out when they are packaged in a creative way. Some of the ways to make traditional gifts stand out:

• Theme-changing items, laundry items, bathing items, or bedding that is put in a decorative basket or bag. A useful item like a baby bathtub or colorful laundry basket that fits the theme can also be used.

• Presentation-items can be rolled or arranged to create an animal, cake, baby, or sandwich.

• Garland-small items can be hung on a garland that can be used for decorating the baby room. Ivy, fuzzy boas, and braided twine work well.

• For gift cards they can be attached to a simple inexpensive item or small toy for the baby. A group or individual can give several gift cards for small amounts for different merchants.

• 6 month stage-around 6 months the baby will outgrow many items form the baby shower. It is still a year away from birthday gift giving so it is great to have the next stage of clothes, toys, and other items needed.

Unusual gifts may be gifts that provide a service or a membership. Unusual gifts are less likely to be returned, exchanged, or received in duplicate.

• Camera-babies are a great subject for photos. An upgraded camera is something the entire family will enjoy and used regularly as the baby milestones are reached.

• House cleaning service-this will give the new family time to enjoy and adjust to the new family member.

• Baby exercise gift certificate-so baby and mom get out of the house weekly. A great postpartum depression fighter.

• Online photo printing/service-there are many free ones, but the paid ones provide more options.

• Year membership to local attraction-a children’s museum membership or zoo membership is good option.