Traditionally, Jewish families do not receive gifts prior to the birth of the baby. Therefore, many friends and family members use the bris ceremony as their first opportunity to give gifts to the newborn baby. Though Jewish custom does not require gifts on this occasion, most people do not show up empty-handed. Anything you would bring to a “typical baby shower” is a appropriate.

You could ask the family if they would like help preparing for the ceremony as part of your gift. Because the parents only have 8 short days to plan the ceremony, consider baking a dessert or other Jewish delicacy as part of your gift.

Purchase your baby gift from the parents’ registry (check to see if they have one), your local Judaica shop, synagogue or other specialty store. Wrap the gift as you would any other baby gift.

Attach a card with a meaningful note. Consider writing, “mazel tov,” which means congratulations.