At the beginning of July my little sister welcomed her daughter Eira into the world. As a congratulations I wanted to buy her gifts that were useful and also that little bit special.

Possibly my favourite find was the “Go Everywhere Mat” from Avery Row. My sister takes this with her everywhere to ensure Eira has a clean area to lie on (whilst preserving the sofas/carpets of friends and family from sick and dribble). I bought the “Round in circles” design in mint which currently has £25 off.

I remembered how although it was lovely to have very pretty outfits for Mabel, they often were not that practical, in terms of frequent nappy changes and the aforementioned regurgitated milk. I used to love easy pull on/take off joggers and soft cotton tops so treated Eira to a cute duck print set and a floral complete-with-ruffle-bum number from Marks & Spencers. For a tenner I think these are excellent value – and they wash really well too.

On the subject of M&S, I also bought their go-with-everything grey chunky knitted hooded cardigan (Mabel wore hers ALL THE TIME) and even though I am completely contradicting the practicality element from my last paragraph, I also bought a beautiful tulle layered dress from their Autograph range (find similar here) as I. JUST. COULDN”T. RESIST.

For Eira’s nursery I had a bespoke typography print created by Cheryl Rawlings, I loved it so much Mabel has the same design in her new bedroom. Some of the artwork/wall hangings were some of the most memorable and thoughtful gifts I received as a new Mum.

Also check out Phireflydesign for lovely things for walls and beautiful unique prints.

Other gifts I have bought for close friends and family members in the past have been the “supersoft” hooded towel and the New Baby Gift Set from Boden. They are so beautifully presented in a co-ordinating bag that they really are a luxe present, spendy admittedly, but absolutely categorically special and useful.

What newborn gifts did you receive that were particularly memorable/special? Ever bought anything for someone else only to buy one for yourself? (I do this ALL THE TIME).

Image by Carley Buick.

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