At some point, you will likely have a baby shower. Most women have one for the first pregnancy. Having a shower for babies other than the first is becoming more common. You may have a shower for each baby.
Registering for a baby shower is a good idea for both you and your guests. Creating a baby registry is good for you because you are more likely to get what you want. Registering also helps avoid duplicate gifts, like five diaper pails. It also makes shopping easier for your guests. They know what you want and what has already been purchased.
The first step is to choose the store where you will register. Large baby specialty store chains are a good choice. You can also register in small baby boutiques. Department stores and discount stores also have baby registries. Chain stores are nice because they have many locations, which are convenient for your guests.
Many large stores also offer online shopping for even more convenience. If the store offers online registries, you may be able to add and delete items from the comfort of your own home. This will save you from having to go back to the store every time you want to make changes.
Once you have chosen the store, you will need to go in to create your registry. The sales person will have you fill out a form and will enter your information into the computer. You will be given a scanner to go around and scan the items you want to add to your registry. This was my husband’s and my favorite part. Once you have finished, return the scanner to the sales person, who will upload the information into the computer.
When scanning items, include things in all price ranges, from inexpensive to big ticket items. Choose some larger, more expensive items as well as smaller items. Relatives often purchase the larger items. Friends sometimes chip in to buy one large gift, rather than several small ones. Include items in the ten to fifteen dollar price range as well as the big ticket items.
When shower guests arrive at the store, they can get a print out of your registry. This will help them select the perfect gift that you’ll be sure to love. At checkout, the cashier will scan your registry and the items purchased will be automatically deducted from the registry. This helps avoid duplicate gifts.
You’ll need to let people know where you registered. This information is usually included on your shower invitations. Showers are generally hosted by a family member or close friend. Tell your best friend where you registered. Also, tell one member from each side of the family, such as your mother and mother in law, or sister and sister in law. This should cover all bases as far as getting the word out.