Do you have a baby shower coming up and you're wondering what to give for a present? An imaginative idea would be to give a baby gift basket. This can be a really cute alternative to a typical wrapped gift, and there's no end to the possibilities of what to include in your baby gift basket.

The choice is yours whether to pick up a pre-made baby gift basket, or to make one yourself. There are pros and cons to both approaches. A ready made gift will obviously save some time, but the one you make yourself will have the personal touch.

Be Creative

It's not difficult at all to make your own baby basket. Start by purchasing an attractive basket, and then go crazy in the baby section of your favorite store. If you're on a tight budget, this can be a truly economical present if you shop the dollar stores for bargains. All you need to add is your time.

Choose a white or pastel basket (or paint one yourself). Start by lining your basket with a receiving blanket. You might have a particular item in mind that will be the centerpiece of the basket. Some ideas for this would be an adorable outfit or a stuffed toy. Then surround it with some useful smaller items, such as rattles, teething rings, small toys, and maybe even some jars of baby food.

Having a theme for your baby gift basket would be a special touch. For example, for a bath time basket, include some squeaky bath toys, a baby bath support ring, some gentle soap and shampoo, and some baby lotion. Add an adorable hooded baby bath towel.

To package your baby gift basket, get some clear cellophane to wrap the basket in. You can also get gift basket bags that come in cute patterns. Tie it up with a large bow in a pastel shade, and add a greeting card.

Buying a Basket

If you would prefer to just go out and buy a baby gift basket, which is frequently the chosen route, there are many fabulous companies both retail and online that offer these types of baskets. GiftBaskets.com, for one, offers gift baskets for baby showers and new arrivals, and their products are adorable. One of my favorites is the Mother Goose nursery rhyme gift basket. Some of the items can even be personalized.

Giving a baby gift basket can be a very thoughtful gesture, especially if you have personally picked out the contents and know that the new mom will appreciate them.