This past weekend, my mom hosted a beautiful baby shower for us! It was simply lovely – seeing my New Jersey family and friends, the menu (I mean, c’mon…Paula Dean french toast casserole?!), the sweet decorations (pink ranunculus everywhere), the wooden blocks made by each guest – every detail was perfect and I didn’t want the day to end.

Joe and I registered at a few stores for things we thought we needed. It’s difficult to know what to get for your baby, especially when everyone says different things are “essentials.” So, we registered for the basics – car seat, stroller, moses basket, swing, bath tub, some cute clothes, etc. It’s always nice opening a gift to see something you registered for…a tad expected because you essentially picked it out, but so appreciated, because you needed it and someone gave it to you as a gift!

When someone gives a handmade gift…what a precious surprise. A few dear friends gave us homemade gifts and I was blown away by their generosity and abilities to make such lovely presents for our baby girl.

The first and last photos are Doodads and Noodles, made by my friend Wendy and her son Joshua. You can check out some other Doodad and Noodles designs here, and even place an order!

The second photo is Henry the Hedgehog, made by my friend Savannah – I’m trying to convince her to open a shop and sell these!

The third photo is a knitted sweater made by Tia at Fibre and Spice. *hint* She takes orders. *hint* I cannot wait for our baby girl to wear her sweater this fall + winter.

Aren’t these gifts just adorable? What are some of your favorite handmade gifts (that you’ve given or received)?