Ni Oct09 PG21.PASSED:NOV_08_p.6-13_News_legal.qxd 24/09/2009 11:42 Page 21
Ni Newborn
Baby Gifts
A gift from the heart
A look at why the old adage “It’s the thought that counts” is particularly gifts remain popular today.”
true in the nursery sector Although hand made gifts
The birth of a new baby spreads a real sense of joy. I remember are indeed popular, few of us
receiving cards and presents from people I barely even knew - all of my are able to knit a blanket or a
mother’s work colleagues sent a gift; friends of friends; neighbours I only pair of booties from scratch
said ‘hello’ to in passing – you name it, just about everybody connected and rely therefore, on good
with me wanted to say ‘Congratulations!’ The house was filled to the retailers with links to those in
brim with cards, balloons, flowers and presents, the kindness and the local community that can.
generosity of which was much appreciated. Gayle Haddock of Carry Me
Baby Showers are a relatively recent phenomenon in the UK, but in Home has, like many retailers,
other parts of the world they have been standard practice for a number founded her hugely successful
of years. Research suggests that they began here after World War II and business upon hand made, personalised gifts - a clear indication that a
simply involved friends and family gathering to celebrate the birth of a thoughtful gift does not have to be an expensive one.
new baby. At first they were female only events, but with fathers playing From customised gift baskets, to clothes, toys and keepsakes there are
an increasingly active role in the parenting, this is thankfully no longer a number of gift items out there that will help to set your shop apart
the case. from the rest. It might even be worth offering a list holding service for
Originally Baby Showers were held soon after the birth of a child, but Baby Showers and Christenings – boosting sales and creating a loyal
nowadays they tend to take place during pregnancy. With today’s customer base in the process. Advertising in the local consumer press
technology allowing gender to be confirmed during pregnancy, many and at mother and toddler groups may well be a good place to start.
parents are keen to plan ahead and kit baby out with everything he or It’s also worth remembering that family and friends often choose to
she will need beforehand. What’s more, the backlash against gender buy the more necessary items as gifts to help prospective mums and
specific colours has seen an explosion of unisex products on the market, dads save money during what can be a very expensive time.
making buying for baby - with or without this information - much easier. According to online consumer advice portal, Baby Center, the top ten
US consumer website Pregnancy Period comments: “When you look newborn baby gifts are: nappies, clothes, thermometers, rattles, bibs,
at the evidence that remains of these celebrations, most of the gifts that blankets, eating sets, pacifiers and baby bags.
were given to the family were handmade – an idea enjoying a renewed If your giftware section is limited – be sure to promote the benefits
popularity today. These gifts included, but were not limited to, clothing, of your existing range as suitable gift purchases too.
blankets and food for the new family. Interestingly enough, these same
Give the gift of Safety A classic nursery theme with
with some Branching Out magic!
With an ever-expanding choice of baby
Noah’s Ark has been a classic toy for a new arrival throughout the ages.
products on the market, selecting the
Branching Out™ from John Crane Ltd is now set to sprinkle its own magic
perfect gift for new parents and their
on this traditional toy. The wooden ark with a metal decking and roof is the
baby can be daunting. Child-safety
ideal vehicle to house the charming wooden animals – two by two of course!
product manufacturer Clippasafe has a
Noah and his wife come complete with magnetic feet to attach them to the
number of practical ideas that offer
ark’s deck and of course, are dressed in authentic clothing from biblical times.
safety and peace of mind.
The animals come in two by two and each has its own quirky character that
The Carramio Baby Carrier (RRP
will appeal to youngsters of all ages.
£24.99) has been designed to allow
This traditional toy will adorn nursery shelves and captivate baby’s attention,
parents to form an even closer bond
giving an added ‘Ahh…’ factor to the nursery.
with their child. The stylish carrier’s
two-way functionality allows the
newborn to be cradled towards the
parent, then when older, to be turned
around to discover the world for
themselves.
Designed to carry a weight of
3.5kgs to 9.0kgs, the Carramio is
made with soft, light-weight and fully
machine-washable fabric, making it
easy to wear and care for.
For gifts on a budget, the Soother Saver (RRP £1.99) is a simple but effective
way of ensuring that soothers are not lost as they stay attached to an item of
clothing. Available in a choice of pink or blue, the Soother Saver conforms to
the latest European Standards - EN 12586:2007.
a73
Tel: 0115 921 1899
a73
Web: www.clippasafe.co.uk
a73
www.twitter.com/clippasafe a73 Tel: 01604 77 49 49 a73 Email: sales@john-crane.co.uk
www.nursery-industry.co.uk
•
OCTOBER 2009
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NURSERY INDUSTRY
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