Baby Shower INVITATION dilema - gift registry or gift certificate?

Question

I am organizing a baby shower for my cousin who just moved to a different state (350 miles away). All our friends and family are here. The problem is that because they are traveling soo far it would not be idea to get gifts because transporting them back to their home will be a major added task/cost. It has been suggested to include in the invitation a small card that explains their situation and where guest are asked for a gift card and not an actual gift. Is this tacky? How can I word it appropriately?

Answer 1

It would be kind of tacky to include on the invitation if the guests aren't all close friends and family (who would probably be aware of the situation anyways).  Why don't you mention it to the people when they call to RSVP?  With gift registries nowadays it is easy for people to order the gift online and just have it sent directly to the recipient's home, they could then bring a picture of the gift in a card to the shower.  Or, ask for clothing only and tell your cousin to bring an extra suitcase.  The $15 to check an extra suitcase nowadays will be worth it for all the baby clothes it can fit.

Answer 2

i know if you register at target and walmart, that people can go online and purchase gifts and have them sent to the mother's house.  i received a few gifts that way.  gift cards are always great!  just explain the situation, i'm sure family and friends will completely understand.  suggest that if you plan on purchasing a big gift, to have it sent to their home.  all the small stuff would be ok, i think.

Answer 3

If the gifts are small they should not be hard to move.

Larger items might be able to be purchased online & sent directly to your cousins home. Sometimes on larger items or over a certain dollar amount shipping is free. You could note that on the registry in addition to the gift cards being on there.

Answer 4

Hmmm. I would think that its kinda tacky. I would call the guests each and explain the situation, I wouldn't put it in the card.

Answer 5

Maybe do a shipping address and have the gift givers mail everything to their house.  The gift givers can include a photo of what they gave so the new mom can open and see what each person gave?

Good Luck

Answer 6

Any website will ship baby gifts to the mommy's house, if that is more convenient.  

Big sites:www.Target.com-registry, run of the mill goodies

small site: www.waddlebug.com, handmade baby gifts

Big or small, you can generally get it covered on the web!  Gift certificates are great, but impersonal.  Maybe order her a nice gift to ship, then everyone bring a 5 or 10 dollar certificate to a national chain (where she's registered) so she can have something at the party.  Plan some fun games and use your time visiting and enjoying her company rather than opening gifts!  It will be OK!

(PS my friend owns the waddlebug site and she makes some kickin' baby gifts!) http://waddlebug.com/default.aspx