Tips for Surrogates During the Holidays-Gift Giving to Intended Parents

The entire surrogacy process lasts approximately 15-18 months from start to finish. Sometimes it’s even longer which means your relationship will span over birthdays, anniversaries, and, of course, holidays! There are often questions about what is appropriate when the holidays arrive. I want to say that each surrogacy relationship is different and how comfortable you feel with your Intended Parents depends entirely on your unique situation. In some cases, all parties live pretty far apart and therefore might only see each other a time or two before birth.  Others might see each other more regularly and have a closer relationship. In any case, a card or some acknowledgment of the occasion is always appropriate but if you would like to purchase a small token to celebrate the occasion some suggestions I have are as follows: flowers, plants, photo frames (to one day hold pictures of the new baby), candles or something you know your Intended Parents like such as a gift card to their favorite restaurant or movie theatre are all popular. You might have some inside information on some things that your Intended Parents might collect or like in particular. The most important thing to remember is that gifts need not break the bank but are something from your heart. If you are stuck for ideas you can always ask your case manager. They often have a great insight into what your IPs might like.