Baby Registry 101
Universal Registries, Completion Discounts and More!
Congratulations! You’re expecting a little one, and the journey to parenthood is both exciting and transformative. As you prepare for your baby’s arrival, one essential task is creating a baby registry. A well-curated wish list not only helps your loved ones choose meaningful gifts, but also ensures you receive items you’ll actually use.
When to Create your Baby Registry
Consider starting your registry toward the end of the first trimester or around the 20-week mark. Most registries can also be kept private until you’re ready to share it with others. If you’re having a baby shower, be sure that your registry is live when the invitations are sent out.
Consider a Universal Registry
A universal baby registry allows you to add gifts from anywhere. This is a great option so that you can ask for exactly what you want and not feel like you have to stay within the confines of what is offered at one place. Multiple registries from different stores can also be synced onto the universal registry. And with a universal registry, you can add gift cards as well to receive varying types of support – MLFEd classes being one option!
Completion Discounts
Many registries will offer a completion discount to use around baby’s due date. Babylist, for example, offers a code for 15% off the Babylist shop 60 days before and 6 months after your baby is expected to arrive. This allows you to purchase any remaining items at a discount. Each registry will have different parameters around this so be sure to shop around and compare!
Online, In-Person or Both?
Another thing to consider is the ability to test out different products in-person. For those who are looking for an in-store experience, our favorite local option is Kids ‘N Kribs right here in Devon, PA. They have a wide selection of strollers, car seats, furniture, layette, and other baby items. They also offer a universal registry with a completion discount!
Register for Gift Cards
From prenatal education to meals for after baby’s arrival, gift cards are a great addition to any registry. Main Line Family Education has you covered for parenting classes, with topics ranging from childbirth preparation and caring for a newborn to tackling sleep issues and learning infant/child CPR. Ask family and friends for the ultimate support in the form of education before baby’s arrival. Or join us after baby’s birth for new parent classes, workshops, and community events.
Other great registry options to support new parents are meals, laundry support, a coffee pick-me-up, and babyproofing around the house to keep baby safe. Some local favorites include:
Postpartum Nurse and Sleep Consultant Support
MLFEd’s New Parent Support Package is another gift consideration for those seeking 1-on-1 support after delivery. Consult with a newborn nurse and an infant sleep specialist during the time when you need them the most! Our package provides families with private, virtual support for 8 weeks. Get all your questions answered and gain confidence in your new role as parents with this unique offering.
How to Add a Gift Card From Anywhere
Here’s how to add a gift card to popular universal registries:
- Babylist:
- Log in to your Babylist account.
- Go to your registry.
- Click “Add Gifts.”
- Choose “Add a Gift Card.”
- Enter the gift card details.
- Voilà! It’s now part of your registry.
- MyRegistry.com:
- Sign in to your MyRegistry account.
- Click “Add Gifts.”
- Select “Add a Gift Card.”
- Enter the gift card information.
- Done! Your registry now includes this valuable resource.
Need Help With Your Registry?
We are always here to be a trusted resource for our clients, and we’re happy to help with suggestions and recommendations. You don’t need to buy one of everything! Always adapt your wish list to fit your family’s current lifestyle.
Creating a baby registry is an exciting step toward welcoming your little one. Remember to seek support and embrace this incredible journey!
