Baby gift etiquette: When do you give what?

A baby is born — hooray! And immediately the questions pop up: when do you visit, should you bring something, and what is appropriate? Baby gift etiquette isn't officially written down anywhere, but these unwritten rules help you on your way.
When do you give the gift?
The rule of thumb: give your gift when you see the baby for the first time. That can be at the maternity visit, at the baby shower drinks or — if you live further away — by post. Not visiting right away? Feel free to wait a few weeks: brand-new parents often appreciate a token áfter the busy period even more.
What do you give, per role?
As an acquaintance or colleague
Small but sweet: a onesie with a name, a wooden card for the door or a set of name stickers. Personal doesn't have to be expensive — with a name on it, even a small gift beats a big box of nappies.
As a friend or family
Choose something lasting: a wooden milestone set, a name garland for the nursery or a keepsake box for the first memories. In our article about wooden baby shower gifts you'll find our favourites.
As a godparent
A bit more is expected of you — not necessarily in price, but in meaning. A personalised jewellery box, a money box with a name or a keepsake with the birth date and weight: a gift the child will treasure later in life.
Our favourite baby gifts






The most important rule
Etiquette is a guideline, not a law. The best gift is one you're happy to give yourself. Just double-check one thing: the spelling of the name. We engrave exactly what you type — and "Noor" simply isn't "Nore". Happy gifting!
