How to Ask for Gift Cards for a Baby Shower?

Recently, parents have started to ask for gift cards or cash instead of the usual soft blankets, cute onesies, and baby clothing offered as inscription gifts for their babies. Many may be asking how to ask for gift cards without offending specific sensitivities.  

Caring parties are reducing vehemently accepted norms surrounding baby showers to match up with the 21st-century conditions and fast-paced needs of the people of the times. 

Independent parents are desperate for something more cooperatively modern yet traditional to enable themselves to break away from it. This is also because traditions indeed form an integral part of marking moments in life with measures in place: weddings, birthdays, or the birth of a child.  

Thus, what traditional etiquette has taught us regarding celebration and expectations from such event inducers for both the hosts and guests?  

In the busy world of modernity, however, these traditions are being changed, and families are ever more looking for ways to fuse the old with the new. 

For a long time, baby showers have been a time-honoured occasion for friends and family to come together and celebrate the pending birth of a new baby; guests typically bring baby gifts such as clothing, toys, and other paraphernalia to help connect with new parents in the familiar way of preparing for a baby’s arrival. 

However, with lifestyles and livelihoods changing, opinions and preferences on gifting are rapidly changing, for this matter, too, at baby showers. 

All along, many parents have tried to defend now more than ever for preferring gift cards or cash gifts rather than traditional ones during baby showers. 

But how does one know how to ask for this modern twist on a long-standing tradition while still keeping in the good books with their guests? 

This article reveals how to ask for baby shower gift cards or cash presents according to traditional etiquette but with a modern twist. We will also look at the top picks for the best gift cards for children and expectant parents. 

Interesting. Let’s delve deeper into it without further ado. 

Our Traditional Etiquettes 

Etiquette has long influenced the way we give gifts on occasions like the baby shower. These customs are ancient, deeply rooted in familial and social spheres, and often handed down through generations. 

The gift card shower is often suggested. Guests arrive with thoughtful, practical gifts that parents can use with their newborns, such as baby clothes, diapers, toys, or other valuable items. 

It’s about new parents getting the things they need to care for the infant and ease into parenthood. 
Nevertheless, traditional etiquette involves graciousness, gratitude, and respect for others’ feelings.

These values must always be at the forefront of our minds when we are hosting or attending a baby shower or deciding on a present. 

That said, it is crucial to note that gift cards do not represent an unthoughtful or unemotional gift choice. Owing to features such as personalization, gift cards are no longer a lazy option and won’t give the impression that you haven’t put any effort into the gift selection.

 
While traditional gifts have sentimental value, the modern world poses unique challenges and needs. It is essential to consider all the factors regarding respecting tradition and dealing with the present. 

It’s Up to the Parents 

The decision of what gifts to ask for at a baby shower is entirely up to the parents-to-be. Each family has unique circumstances, needs, and preferences, which their loved ones should respect. 

If parents find gift cards or cash gifts more beneficial, it’s their prerogative to express that preference.

However, the choice between a gift card and cash is a common confusion among expectant parents. The benefits of gift cards always outweigh those of cash. 

Many parents today face different financial and logistical realities than previous generations. 

For example, they may already have many baby essentials, particularly if they have older children or have been gifted items from friends and family. Others may live in small spaces where storing much baby gear isn’t practical. 

In such cases, gift cards can allow parents to purchase precisely what they need when they need it. Some parents may prefer to save money for future expenses, such as childcare, rather than acquire more material goods. 

That said, parents must consider their guests’ feelings and expectations. Some guests may prefer to give a traditional gift or feel uncomfortable giving cash or gift cards. 

The key is to communicate your wishes considerately and transparently, making it easy for guests to understand your needs while also feeling good about their contribution. 

It’s Okay Not to Be Completely Traditional 

There is undoubtedly a custom place; however, one must realize that times have changed, and so have the needs. It is all right to step away from traditions to make things easier and more practical for your family. 

This doesn’t mean you should abandon the traditions that make baby showers unique. Instead, it means customizing them to your comfort level. 

For some parents-to-be, a big pile of baby clothes or toys might not be the most practical option; they may already have these items or prefer certain products. 

In such cases, it can be reasonable to ask for gift cards or cash while still abiding by one of the key tenets of a baby shower: the gift of giving. 

However, it is crucial to request this sensitively. Some guests may not mind a gift card; others consider it impersonal. 

To navigate these issues, it is fitting to share with your guests why you prefer gift cards or cash, particularly how it will help your family prepare for the baby in the best way possible. 

This way, your guests will become assured of the significance of their contributions. 

Recommended Read: Top 10 Gift Cards for Women 2025

Excellent Way to Ask for Gift Cards for Baby Shower 

It is crucial to frame your request for gift cards for your baby shower in a way that is honest, transparent, and considerate of your guests’ feelings.

1. Say Honestly 

Regarding gift-giving, nothing is better than the best policy: honesty. Let your guests know why you want gift cards.  

You may have space constraints, so you must choose what you will put in your house. 
Or you may be saving for one particular big-item purchase, such as a stroller or crib, and that gift card would help. 

Whatever those reasons, being open about them allows your guests to understand your request and respect it. 
For example, you might say: 

“We’ve already received so many wonderful hand-me-downs from family and friends, and we need a little help with the larger items now. A gift card to [specific store] would be greatly appreciated if you could contribute.” 

2. Determine Your Needs 

Before you ask for gift cards, consider what you need. 

• Are there specific stores where you plan to shop for baby items? 

• Are you looking to save for a particular purchase, or would a general-purpose gift card be more helpful? 

That helps to narrow down the request and assists your guest in identifying the most useful gift card. 
For example, if you get a high-quality stroller, you might appreciate a card to a store that carries that brand.

If you are stocking up on necessities, a big-box retailer like Target or Amazon would be more suitable. 
Opening your eyes to what you want allows you to specify what you could use and, therefore, what would support your guests in choosing appropriate items for you. 

3. Choose the Best Time to Ask 

Timing is vital when it comes to asking for gift cards.

 
It’s preferable to communicate your wishes early on with the invitations to the baby shower. 
This would give each guest more time to consider your request and plan accordingly. 

You can add a note to the invitation or create a small registry with various gift cards to guide your guests. 
This makes it easier for guests to see what you need and pick a gift card that works for them. 

Moreover, by making your request early on, the guests will not be put in the position where they have purchased a traditional gift and feel compelled to buy something extra. 

4. Tips to Remember While Asking 

While asking for gift cards, a few tips should be noted down, as enumerated below 

• Be courteous and remember to be considerate: Because gift-giving is (rightfully) voluntary, remember not to force the duty down the throat of every guest. Be gracious, and accept whatever gift they choose as a gesture of kindness. 

• Offer a combination of choices: Remember that some guests may prefer the satisfaction of giving a more traditional gift, so it is advisable to include a few physical gifts on the gift registry. This will allow everyone to contribute in a manner in which they are comfortable. 

• Explain what the gift cards will be used: Tell your guests how their contribution will help you prepare for the new baby’s arrival. Personalizing the request will make it more meaningful and less transactional. 

• Specifies but be flexible: While suggesting a particular store or gift card is valid, having some room for flexibility is also wonderful. Some guests might instead present you with gift cards from different stores or even Visa/Mastercard gift cards that are usable everywhere.

5. Examples of Wording to Choose 

Choosing the right words to ask for gift cards can make all the difference.  

Here are some examples of how you might phrase your request: 

• On the Invitation:  

“Your presence at our baby shower is the greatest gift. If you’d like to help us prepare for our little one’s arrival, a gift card to [specific store] would be greatly appreciated. We plan to purchase [specific item], and your contribution will greatly help us.” 

• In Person or a Note:  

“We’ve been so blessed with many essentials for our baby already. If you’re thinking of a gift, a gift card would be wonderful so we can get a few of the bigger items we still need.”

• For a Group Gift:  

“Some of our friends and family have asked what we still need for the baby. We plan to pool together for a [specific item] if you’d like to contribute. A gift card to [specific store] would help us make that purchase.”

These examples will help you keep your requests polite, wholesome, and considerate of your guests’ feelings while making it easy for them to understand your needs.

6. Can You Ask for a Cash Gift Card? 

Yes, asking for a cash gift card or gift certificate is perfectly fine if that’s easier for you. Such cards can be obtained from agencies like Visa and Mastercard, providing limitless freedom of choice: you can spend them in whichever way you please. 

This could help if you were making a big purchase or saving up for something a little more expensive in the future. 

When you ask for a cash gift card, be careful how you phrase the request. Some might find it uncomfortable to give cash or would rather give a more traditional gift. 

In response, explain why a gift card would help while expressing gratitude for whatever your guests choose to bring. 

For example, you could say, 

“As we prepare for our baby, we find a cash gift card the best way to allow us to buy what we need when needed. We are grateful for any contributions, but please know that what matters most is that you are here to celebrate our joy.”

7. How to Ask Politely for Money as a Gift? 

Asking for money as a gift can be awkward, but with some help, it can be done politely and dignifiedly.

Alternatively, you can also transfer money from a gift card to a bank account. 

Here are some tips for asking for money as a gift: 

• Be Honest and Direct 

Tell them why receiving cash would be most helpful to you. Whether you’re saving for a big purchase, starting a college fund for the baby, or want the freedom to buy what you need, being up-front about your reasons will help your guests understand and respect your request. 

• Keep It Casual 

Keep it light and easy if you are concerned about coming off too blunt.  

For instance, “If you’re considering a gift, we would greatly appreciate a contribution towards [specific purpose]. But most of all, we look forward to celebrating with you!” 

• Offer Alternatives 

Not everyone will be comfortable giving money. To be considerate, offer alternative gift choices or have them register for small gifts.  

This ensures that all guests can contribute a gift in a way that feels right for them. 

• Express Gratitude 

Always thank your guests for any gift they bring. Let them know their presence and support are the most important gifts for you.

For example, you could say,  

“We’re so excited to welcome our little one soon, and several people have asked what we might need. If you’d like to give a gift, a contribution towards [specific purpose] would be appreciated. But please know that your presence and love are all the greatest gifts.”  

After the Shower

After the baby shower, send a thoughtful thank-you note, gently mentioning gift cards for any remaining essentials. Express your appreciation and offer a kind way for loved ones to contribute.

Follow-Up Guests with Thank You Notes 

Your thank you notes are an excellent opportunity to express gratitude to your guests. A handwritten thank you note is a good way of acknowledging that someone has sent you a gift and that it is appreciated. 

This is a way to convey your thankfulness for having them with you at such a momentous occasion and event. 

Get down to writing about the gift and let them know how you will use it. 

For example, you might mention something like this, 
“Thank you so much for the generous gift card to [store]. We used it to purchase [specific item], which will be incredibly helpful as we prepare for the baby’s arrival.” 

Or if someone sent you cash or a gift card, you might say, 
“We’re so appreciative of your thoughtful gift. This will be most helpful in preparing for the baby, and we appreciate your generosity and support.” 

Be mindful that thank you cards should be sent within a few weeks after the baby shower while the event is still fresh in everyone’s mind. 

Share with Your Guests 

Finally, remember to share with your guests how those gifts helped you prepare for your little one’s arrival, either in a group email, on social media, or in your thank-you notes. 

That shows your appreciation and allows your friends and family to connect and share in the joy. 

You may share a picture of the nursery and say how gift cards or cash were used to buy what you needed. 
You can share a story about how you used the gifts to prepare for the baby or thank the guests for their love and support. 
Sharing your experience helps to bring closure to the event and leaves everyone feeling upbeat and appreciated. 

Best Gift Cards for Baby Shower 

Selecting an appropriate gift card for a baby shower can help new parents prepare for their child’s arrival. 

Here are some of the practical and thoughtful gift card ideas: 

1. Amazon Gift Card 

Amazon truly is a one-stop shop for new parents. They can get anything and everything—from diapers to clothes to cribs and nursery furniture—with a snap of a finger.

The parents can find precisely what they need very quickly, and with the bonus of speedy shipping, they’ll have the necessary items at their doorstep. 

In addition, with an Amazon gift card, parents can compare prices and read reviews on a wide range of available items. Learn the method to redeem an Amazon gift card online.

2. CVS Pharmacy Gift Card 

CVS Pharmacy gift cards are great for everyday needs. New parents can use them to buy baby necessities such as diapers, wipes, formula, and even over-the-counter medications for both the baby and mom.

CVS also sells many personal care products and health supplies, which may be very handy postpartum. 

With a CVS pharmacy practically on every corner, parents can easily pick up whatever they need without having to worry about long trips to the store.

3. Groupon Gift Card 

Groupon Gift Card delights new parents by offering discounts on experiences and services. They can look for several offers on discounted baby gear, family outings, or even wellness services like massages or fitness classes for postpartum recovery..

This gift card is perfect for parents looking for discounts and new experiences, practical yet fun. 

Moreover, they could use Groupon gift card to take the family out on family outings or date nights, which could be fabulous moments of bonding and relaxation in those early days of parenthood. 

4. Target Gift Card 

Many parents adore Target because it has a wholesome selection of baby products and household essentials. 

A Target gift card allows new parents to shop for baby clothes, toys, nursery furniture, and baby food in one convenient place. 

These well-organized stores and user-friendly online shopping experiences make it easy to find things quickly. 

Furthermore, Target offers exclusive baby product lines that provide unique, high-quality, typically very stylish options for new parents who want the best for their babies. 

After thinking of these lovely gift cards, why not conveniently buy them through Send Credit? 

Send Credit is a one-stop digital shop of happiness; it offers secured payment of gift cards, airtime, and other prepaid utilities with instant delivery.

Send Credit exists to help clients create lasting memories, providing the easy and handy sending of bundles of joy no matter where their loved ones may be. 

Wrap it Up 

There is a tightrope between tradition and modern demands, and the latter sometimes begs for a bit of civility, such as during a baby shower. 

However, controlling all keys through truth, clarity, and utmost respect, politely and reliably request gift cards. 

Remember, the most important thing is to celebrate this joyous occasion with your loved ones and express gratitude for their support as you prepare to welcome your new baby.