-Choose a variety of sizes when selecting apparel and sleepwear for your registry. Your baby will grow quicker than you think, and you will be thankful for those larger sizes!

-Remember that budgets vary when it comes to baby gifts, so be sure to include a mix of both large items like bedding (which make a great group gift) as well as small items, like bodysuits and blankets.

- If you don’t know the sex of your baby, you are not limited to yellow and green! Luckily one of the hottest colors for baby products right now is chocolate brown...which will suit both boys and girls just fine! Another great option, and one of my favorites, is grey. Once the baby is born you can mix and match these hip unisex colors with pink or blue to make an adorable statement specifically for your baby.

Preparing for the arrival of your new baby, especially for a first time mom, can be one of the most exciting and confusing things you might ever do. The amount of choices for clothing, gear, bedding, diapers and so on can be overwhelming, but talking to other moms, friends and family members about what they have used will help narrow down the wide selection of choices. However, I must warn you that when seeking advice, you will get many many opinions and suggestions, so when it comes down to it, follow your gut. You know best what will suit your gorgeously green lifestyle and your new arrival!

It’s best to set up your registry about 4 months prior to the arrival of your new one or at least 1 month before your shower invites go out. Try to get the major necessities for the nursery set up and ready to go 1 month before the baby is due, that means the following...

1. Crib and crib mattress, or if you are using a co sleeper or bassinet, that will suffice for the first few months of life
2. Diapers and wipes (getting your diaper pale or disposal system ready is good idea as well)!!
3. Wardrobe basics- including onsies, pajamas, hats and socks
4. Blankets- both swaddling and cuddle blankets
5. Bottles (in case breast feeding does not come easily or you prefer to use formula)
6. Bath care and towel
7. Car seat, you wont be allowed to leave the hospital without one!
8. Stroller

Always remember that it is rare that your little one will show up on the date you are due...so be prepared for a surprise visit. The nice thing is, they don’t expect anything more than food and love from you upon their arrival.

Take a look at the gift registry checklist.