pre-birth baby gift customs?

What are the customs for buying an expecting mother a gift prior to the child's birth? I know that the family has been purchasing outfits in white not knowing the sex of the child (due in May). THis is a very dear friend and a family that I adore. Please help me not to insult!

Debbie

I am also interested in this topic. I am hosting a baby shower for someone in the states with a Spain theme. Does anyone know of traditions in Spain regarding baby showers or the like? Thanks!

I'm not an expert in this topic (someone correct me please if I'm wrong) but I would say that here is not normal for friends to give gifts before birth (yes for the family, not for the friends).

It is more normal to give a present after the birth. The gift depends on your relationship with them and what you want to expend.

Fernando

Well, I made the decision to buy a gift for a close friend in hopes of not insulting since the reply appeared after I departed for Spain. She was so very appreciative and it was a learning experience for me too being that I am also expecting. ACcording to her and the family (from Granada), there is no shower type event for the expecting mom. The family members help out by purchasing items. She is due the end of May and has so much purchased already. All by family members! Ugh!.. I still am in shock after looking at prices for the needed items such as cradles, cribs, car seats etc. SUPER EXPENSIVE compared to the states. Even maternity clothing is ridiculous. COME ON!!!! 90 euros for jean overalls. Hope this helps and thanks for the input!
Debbie

Oh! Si, Spanish baby clothes are super expensive. My mother bought a winter hat for my baby son for about $60 Euros!!! You can find the same in the U.S. for 5 bucks!!...Well it is no the same, they have some very neat stuff...but it is expensive anyway....

By the way, a baby shower, even though becoming popular in many countries, is like talking about halloween, yes other countries do it, but it is mostly American.

"Baby shower" is something I had never even heard about, so you can realize how uncommon is here. It is very common, though, to make presents to the mother and child on your first visit, but always after birth.