We all know to get diapers, binkies, little onesies, etc. But when the shower is for your best friend that’s supported you through everything? Or your partner/ wife just got pregnant? What about when your sister is finally pregnant after trying for years? We all have those times when diapers just don’t cut it for the closest people in our lives. We have to get them something amazing. Something that is unique, over the top, and perfect for them or their baby. Here is a list I made of 10 special baby shower gifts that will make a lasting impression.

1. Give Her A Doula

Well as a doula, I may be a little biased (Maybe not). But I believe the best gift you can give a new mama is peace of mind and a beautiful labor. Buy her a doula for a baby shower gift. You and some of her friends or family may want to chip in together to afford such a quality gift. I would highly recommend NOT picking the doula out, but rather presenting her with money for the average cost of a doula, and some top suggestions (maybe even call in a few interviews for her! The less work for mama, the better) But she has to feel that connection with the doula before the hire. I promise you, she will be thanking you for your baby shower gift for months (or years!) to come.

2. A Book That Will Speak To Her Motherhood

This book was just released on Kickstarter, and it absolutely precious. It’s both fun and playful with rhyming and imaginative scenes. But the words are so sweet and will teach young children how to grow up showing honor, love, and appreciation. This book speaks volumes without saying many words but will have you in tears by the end of it. It is a book every mama of a boy needs. Check it out at Chris & Glow.

3. Unique Gift For The Baby

Want to buy the cutest thing in the world for the baby that no one else will be getting? These little booties are handmade from Nepal and the profits go to help provide clean water to the people of Nepal. Made from yak wool, they are worth going gaga over. You can buy them HERE. You won’t regret this buy after you see that cute newborn rocking a pair of them.

4. Personalized Throw Pillow

A thoughtful custom gift for a new mom would be THIS but you could only buy it after the baby is born. But it’s beautiful and holds the moment. How fun would it be to have one of these pillows in every child’s room? Seems like an upgrade from a scrapbook.

5. A Clay Handprint/Footprint Keepsake

This adorable kit allows the moment to be commemorated well. This is a totally safe, non-toxic, and easy-to-use clay kit. This is a peaceful activity mom will love doing while in recovery mode. What a perfect way to capture forever how tiny and sweet the newborn is. A perfectly classy gift – get it HERE

6. Lumberjack Baby Beard Beanie

For a baby boy, these hats are just the cutest things! Handmade and sold on Etsy, they are perfect for a baby born in the cold winter months and needs a hat for his whole face! (Hey, can I have one my own size please?) Get a bearded baby HERE.

7. Blessingway

Nope, not the same thing as a baby shower. A Blessingway is a Native American traditional ceremony to bless and empower a woman before her birth. People may write down prayers or words of affirmation and make something beautiful out of it. They may draw henna on mom’s belly and make crowns of flowers. It can be as serene or as light-hearted as you want. Many different things can be done to make each Blessingway unique and special. Doulas can sometimes plan and host these anywhere from $100-$500. Either pay a doula or plan a Blessingway ceremony yourself!

8. Prenatal Massage

So, this can go two ways. If you’re on a budget and a great massager… go for it! Every pregnant woman is secretly just waiting around for someone to offer them a massage – like at all times. I’d look up prenatal massage videos on youtube to get some more specific tips and tricks and also to know what to avoid so that you don’t send her into early labor! If you are going to buy her one, make sure the certificate is for a place that specializes in prenatal massage and has good reviews. You don’t want her to always remember your gift as the one that gave her gas pains or something worse! Here is a good place in KC.

9. Chiropractic Care

Chiropractic care is an unglamorous gift from someone who knows what’s up. Those who have been through a tough pregnancy understand the need for alignment and adjustment. The body completely changes during pregnancy and everything feels out of place. Putting it into alignment has some great health benefits along with the natural relaxation. The benefits are: maintaining a healthier pregnancy, controlling symptoms of nausea, reducing the time of labor and delivery, relieving back, neck or joint pain, and possibly preventing a potential cesarean delivery.

10. Prenatal Yoga Or Birth Workshop Classes

Being happy and healthy is essential to a good pregnancy, quick delivery, and a healthy baby. Help your mama friend prepare, relax, and embrace motherhood with prenatal yoga or a birthing class.

For a great birth and postpartum workshop in Kansas City, I recommend Dara Aldi and Heidi Meythaler

For Prenatal Yoga in KC , I recommend Home Holistic.

Whatever you decide to get her or the baby, put some thought into it, put some heart into it, and splurge a little (she deserves it right?). Be her right hand, help her rock this pregnancy, labor, and early motherhood!

Let me know what you chose for the soon-to-be-mommy in your life!