When you're creating a baby registry, it's easy to find yourself positively stunned by the price tags on certain must-have items. And you may have your fingers tightly crossed that family and friends might pitch in on a car seat, stroller, and/or crib. These wise pointers from experts and moms may make it easier for you to nab those bigger-ticket items for baby.
Choose a Store That Offers a Completion Discount
"While it's hard to ensure you'll receive those big-ticket items, you can do some things to ensure it will be easier for you to purchase them later. Create your registry at a store/stores that offer completion coupons, so after your shower you can take advantage of savings on those big-ticket items. Register for gift cards in smaller amounts, so you can put those together toward your purchases. If there is one big-ticket item that you are really hoping to receive as a gift, you may ask friends and family to spread the word on what you are really looking to receive, and hopefully some coworkers or cousins will go in together to get that item." –– Julie McCaffrey, chief baby planner and owner at BabyNav Baby Planners
Register for Gift Cards
"In addition to dropping hints and sharing your registry on social media with your friends and family, I think it's a good idea to register for gift cards. Amazon allows you to do this. That way, if you don't receive those big-ticket items as gifts, you can buy them yourself with your gift cards at the best time — when there's a price drop or sale." — Sandra Gordon, founder of BabyProductsMom.com
Be Direct With Close Loved Ones
"Tell friends or family members — just those who you are close with — that the bigger items are much more important to you to have, since they are necessities. Hopefully, they will choose to go in on a big item together."
Politely Point Out Deals
"Tell your family or close friends that you happen to notice the item you want is on sale, and hopefully they take the hint. Or just cross your fingers and hope for the best!"
Save & Snag 'Em Yourself
"You shouldn't expect to receive anything off your registry. These are gifts from other people. If you want big-ticket items, plan to save for them. Or go to consignment shops, ask neighbors who have kids if they're getting rid of items, etc. There are plenty of good used items out there! Also, most registries give you 15 percent off once your due date passes."
Don't 'Over-Register'
"I think it's possible to 'over-register'! Don't go to the baby store and put everything that 'would be nice' to have on your list. Stick to the things you know you really need or 'have to have.' You don't want to end up with a bunch of things you may never use and not the things that are most important to have. I also think this could increase your chances that a group of friends or relatives goes in together on a big gift."
Plan to Buy the Big Things Yourself
"Definitely put the crib, stroller, and car seat into your own budget. If someone buys it for you, it's totally awesome, but you shouldn't expect it!"
*Disclaimer: The advice on CafeMom.com is not a substitute for consultation with a medical professional or treatment for a specific condition. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem without consulting a qualified professional. Please contact your health-care provider with questions and concerns.
