You have been preparing for the arrival of the newest member of your family and bonding with your Gestational Carrier for months. She is helping complete your family by giving you the most incredible gift of all – a baby! How can you ever thank her enough for this amazing gesture?

 While gift giving is certainly not why the majority of Gestational Carriers decide to embark on a surrogacy journey, nor is it expected, required, or necessary, many Intended Parents choose to give a small token of gratitude to say thank you to their Gestational Carrier. But what should you get, and what considerations should be taken into account when looking for the perfect gift? We are pleased to offer suggestions from other parents who have been through their own surrogacy journeys in order to help you with options.

 CONSIDER YOUR GESTATIONAL CARRIER’S FAMILY

While your Gestational Carrier has done the majority of the heavy lifting throughout this journey, it’s important to remember the other family members who have been affected and have made adjustments to their lives to accommodate the changes along the way. Gift ideas that could be appreciated by her entire family include:

  • Gift certificates for family-friendly outings (concerts, sporting events, etc.)
  • A gourmet food basket
  • Gift certificates to the family’s favorite restaurant
  • Thank You cards for each member of the Gestational Carrier’s family

A small token of recognition for your Gestational Carrier’s family to enjoy is an unexpected way for Intended Parents to show their appreciation for all that the family has endured over the course of the surrogacy journey.

OPT FOR SENTIMENTAL, KEEPSAKE GIFTS

Every surrogacy journey, for both Gestational Carriers and Intended Parents, is a unique and one-of-a-kind experience that will never be forgotten. Why not compliment it with a one-of-a-kind gift for your Gestational Carrier in order to commemorate her experience? Suggestions for such a gift include:

  • A charm bracelet
  • A personalized necklace
  • Jewelry featuring birthstones associated with the month of your child’s birth
  • An angel themed gift, as angels are often associated with surrogacy

Something meaningful to your Gestational Carrier that she can cherish and be reminded of the magical role she played in your family’s completion often means more than a simple thank you or a gift certificate.

SOME MUCH DESERVED PAMPERING

After giving birth to a child, many women find some much-needed relaxation and pampering to be beneficial. After all, for at least the past 9 months, your Gestational Carrier has tirelessly worked to provide the best environment for your child to grow and develop. As she has supported you and your family during this surrogacy journey, following the birth of your child is the ideal time for you – as the Intended Parents – to support her in the process of feeling more like her old self prior to carrying your child. Some gift ideas to promote these ideas include:

  • Spa treatments
  • Manicures & pedicures
  • Hair salon services (cut, color, blowout, etc.)
  • Food delivery services

Carrying a child for 9 long months is a miraculous, exhausting adventure. Your Gestational Carrier has trekked through the thick of it with the best interests of your child in mind in order to help you build your family. Giving a gift of gratitude following the birth of your child will never accurately express just how incredibly thankful you are. However, it will be an unexpected surprise to your Gestational Carrier and her family, and one that will be greatly appreciated.