Last week, I got a great question from a friend...
"My sister is pregnant and I wanted to see if you had any suggestions for an expectant mom in NYC..."
A few things jumped to mind, but I sourced the fabulous Breath + Broth community for even more ideas. Here is our top ten list of gifts for moms or moms-to-be (MTB).
- "Double Date"
- This was one of my favorite suggestions, so it is number one on my list. Give the MTB and her partner a double date night: one for now and one for after the baby is born. Most people agreed that the "now" date night should be dinner and a movie. Movies - especially out of the house and especially those that aren't produced by Pixar or Disney - become a real luxury once you have kids. The date night for later is a coupon for a night of babysitting so they can go out, do whatever they want and have some adult time with a trusted (and free!) caregiver at home.
- "Super Mom Care Kit"
- Even Clark Kent took off the cape sometimes! This idea came from an awesome new Mom, who is brilliantly raising her little guy by listening to her own voice and being kind to herself. According to her (and a few other commenters) he kit would include things like a comfy robe, slippers, a heating pad or rice sock, earplugs, eye masks, aromatherapy pillow, and bubble bath.
- Massage
- Cause, duh. This is good for any mom with kids in her belly, on her back or in her brain. For moms-to-be be sure to find a recommended prenatal therapist that way you are sure her massage is tailored to her needs and comfort.
- NYC MTB - Check out this solid article for an overview of massage options in the five boroughs.
- Cause, duh. This is good for any mom with kids in her belly, on her back or in her brain. For moms-to-be be sure to find a recommended prenatal therapist that way you are sure her massage is tailored to her needs and comfort.
- Doula Love
- This is of course biased, but really, what mom doesn't deserve more help, love, confidence and companionship?! Consider getting mom a gift certificate for postpartum doula services. You can go through an agency - or if in New York, we may know someone. Wink. Wink. If you know that the parents wanted a Birth Doula, you can also start a little fund - Doula Dollars! - allowing other well-intentioned gift givers to contribute also.
- Newborn Photo Session
- This is a sweet and thoughtful gift for expecting parents. It usually runs $150-$250 per session depending on the photographer. If you know a photographer the parents like, start there. If not, then take a look at the style of any professional photos they have (think wedding) to see their style and get a recommendation from another parent or friend if possible. If a photo shoot isn't in the cards, consider a gift certificate to a service like Shutterfly or Groove Book. New Moms or Dads will have more photos than they now what to do with and this may help them put 'em to good use!
- Cleaning Service Gift Certificate
- I don't want a super pregnant client cleaning her house (unless it is part of the final nesting burst). I also don't want a new mom worrying about dusting or dishes when there is a baby to bond with. So, a cleaning gift certificate makes a ton of sense to me. If you can find one, consider a cleaner that uses natural, non-toxic cleaning supplies.
- Baby Carrier (and maybe a class on baby wearing!)
- This could be a combo baby shower or welcome present and holiday present. A carrier - and the confidence to use it! - can be life changing for a new parent. Some popular carrier choices include the Moby or Tula Wraps, the Ergo, or the Baby Bjorn. Here is a video on wraps, one on ring slings, and one on Ergos. Or you can check out Wrapping Rachel, a Master Babywearer (yes, that's a thing!) with her own Youtube channel!
- NYC MTB: Caribou Baby in Brooklyn has some AWESOME baby wearing classes - among lots of other great class options. Check them out here.
- This could be a combo baby shower or welcome present and holiday present. A carrier - and the confidence to use it! - can be life changing for a new parent. Some popular carrier choices include the Moby or Tula Wraps, the Ergo, or the Baby Bjorn. Here is a video on wraps, one on ring slings, and one on Ergos. Or you can check out Wrapping Rachel, a Master Babywearer (yes, that's a thing!) with her own Youtube channel!
- Gift Certificate for New Momma Style
- Pregnancy clothes are expensive and a lot of moms can feel pretty down about their changing body's non-compliance with their current wardrobes. Hit up somewhere like Destination Maternity, which carries a lot of brands or somewhere like Boden, whose European sensibilities lead to fresh styles and whose return policies and frequent sales means it's easy to snag a bargain - and send it back if needed!
- Organic Mani Pedi
- Pregnancy is a time to watch what we are putting in and on our bodies. Nail polish and the process of manicures contains a lot of gunk that we don't really want around when growing a new person. Try to find a salon that specializes in organic processes. You can also opt for something like Jamberry - a fun, flexible and durable nail applique that is non-toxic for moms and kids. A fellow hard-working mom is a consultant for them, so consider buying from her Jamberry page if you go this route.
- NYC MTB: Sweet Lily in Manhattan is a delightful mani-pedi experience focused on harnessing the power of nature - not chemicals - to get you glam. Love them!
- Pregnancy is a time to watch what we are putting in and on our bodies. Nail polish and the process of manicures contains a lot of gunk that we don't really want around when growing a new person. Try to find a salon that specializes in organic processes. You can also opt for something like Jamberry - a fun, flexible and durable nail applique that is non-toxic for moms and kids. A fellow hard-working mom is a consultant for them, so consider buying from her Jamberry page if you go this route.
- Food. Glorious Food.
- In the New Year, you'll be able to spoil her with goodies from B+B, but for now, take a look around her neighborhood and find a spot or two that she can get quick and easy meals picked up or delivered. This could be somewhere like Whole Foods or the local Italian place she loves - just make sure it is easy for her or her partner and that it follows their dietary preferences.
Some other great ideas were acupuncture sessions, a class pack to prenatal or baby & me yoga, or a belly cast or pregnancy photo shoot. So many good ideas for some much deserved pampering! Personally, I would take 2, 3, 6, 9 and 10 right now! How about you?
Holiday Love + Light,
Ali