Baby gifts on a budget

There’s no doubt families across America are taking a closer look at their personal spending and tightening wherever possible these days.

I, for one, have been by watching my spending by passing over inessentials at the store and better planning my errands to get the most out of a precious tank of gas.

But as the old clichés go, the world keeps turning and life goes on. And thank goodness beautiful babies are still born every day!

Getting a thoughtful and unique baby gift doesn’t have to break the bank. And buying on a budget doesn’t have to mean skimping on style either. Here are a few tips for getting the most bang for your buck, and also a few of my Giggles & Coos favorites at various price points:

Add a custom monogram to a receiving blanket, bib or lovie:
Nothing says high-end and personal more than customization. And every proud mama loves a gift adorned with her new little one’s initials. For a few extra bucks you can create a truly one-of-a-kind baby gift that will surely get a slew of oohs and ahhs at the baby shower. Giggles & Coos personalized baby gifts start as low as $12 for a monogrammed bib, $25 for an adorable Angel Dear lovie or $42 for a personalized Princess Linens Rick Rack Dress with matching diaper cover.

Buy things that are essential, but also that have great style:
This way mama is getting useful day-to-day goodies, and you feel like you’re giving her indulgent, designer items. Solana Babywear makes the best baby swaddling blankets. They are a very light weight cotton and have a stretch to them. This makes them very easy to use!! Cuddlebee makes ultra hip bibs and matching burp cloths in fabulous fabrics and combines them with super soft chenilles. Cuddlebee products are all hand-made in the USA. You can pick up a baby swaddling blanket for $20 or a matching bib & burp cloth set for just $30.00.

Shop sale racks and off season items:
Just because a baby is born in December doesn’t mean you have to buy sweaters and baby blankets. Purchase spring items in larger sizes that they’ll eventually grow into. The Giggles & Coos sale rack is always loaded with cool baby clothes and unique gift items. My current personal favorites are the Rabbit Moon sundresses as well as last season's Daily Tea styles. These are on sale for $10 or $15 each!! Giggles & Coos is always adding items to our sale rack, so check back frequently. Or sign up for The Monthly Giggle (our monthly e-newsletter) to stay on top of sales and other great offers - gigglesandcoos@cfl.rr.com.