It feels so tacky posting this, but I’m just going ahead and doing it. It’s the easiest way to get the information out there for all to see.
To make things simple, we registered at two places, Target and Abby’s Lane. Target is really close to us, which makes exchanges/returns easier, since Wal-Mart is farther down the road. Abby’s Lane is an online boutique that offers specific items not easily found in mainstream department stores. For personal reasons, we chose not to register at any baby superstore (i.e. Babies”R”Us).
The majority of the items listed on the registries are somewhat brand specific, chosen after reading reviews and such. However, if you can find the item used and in good shape that’s great. Also, colors don’t matter, so if you can find a discontinued color on sale for cheaper, go for it. If you have any questions about a product, just email or call me.
Yes, our registry is sparse. Reasons why:
a. My friend, Gwen, is giving me a pile of baby loot. Bless her soul.
b. We have gathered several items through freecycle. Gotta love freecycle.
c. We are planning on using cloth diapers and breastfeeding.
d. We don’t know the sex of the baby, which makes it hard to register because there aren’t many gender neutral items out there.
e. We highly encourage people to buy used items through ebay/yard sales/thrift stores and the like.
There are several items not included on the registries.
Clothes: We actually prefer to have used clothes. It’s ridiculous to pay for new onesies/sleepers/undershirts/you name it when you can perfectly fine ones used. We won’t be offended in the least to find used baby clothes (washed and in presentable condition, of course!) wrapped up.
Books: Again, used is preferred.
Toiletries: Baby soaps, lotions and the like. Controversy has been swarming over the past year about baby toiletries. Phthalates are found in most products, so we are considering using products that are phthalate-free. The most mainstream line of products that has phthalate-free baby stuff is Burt’s Bees. We are hopeful that our little one doesn’t have sensitive skin or allergies, but unfortunately, the odds are against that being the case. If for some reason, we need to choose something less harsh, California Baby is a highly recommended line of products.
As time goes on, I am sure we will add more items, but this at least gives people something to work with.
