How you are going to deliver the invitations? The best method is to use the written invite, as it is a perfect reminder for guests to pin up on a board or on their fridge. invitations should include pertinent information, such as the name of the mom-to-be and the date, time, and location of the event. The address and phone number need to be indicated as well. A separate slip of paper with a map or clear directions should be mailed with the invitation.

People's schedules get filled up quickly. Waiting until the last minute won't help you or your potential guests manage to make arrangements to attend your event. Sending out the invitations three to four weeks in advance will allow people to plan to attend and work the event in. Include an RSVP, which means that if the person plans to attend, she needs to call the hostess to let her know.

If you have a particular theme, the invitation is a great way to highlight it. Choose the invitations to match the color or theme of the party, and also clearly indicate on the invitations if there is a particular theme guests should keep in mind. Note if the mom-to-be is listed with a gift registry and do provide that information on the invitation, but jot down a quick note that there is no obligation for guests to purchase items on the registry. Guests can make their own choice whether they would like to use the registry for gift ideas.

Have the guests bring items to include in a gift basket for the guest of honor. A gift basket theme has endless possibilities. For example, if mom already has a lot of baby gear, you might consider throwing a shower that is just for pampering the mom. Candles, soaps, or bubble bath are all great choices. With two or more children, mom will be especially appreciative of a gift that makes her life easier or gives an excuse for some leisure time. Babysitting or housecleaning certificates, meals, gift cards to dine out, or a good book to read all qualify.

Include theme information on the invitations to make gift shopping a breeze. Many parents-to-be opt to find out before birth whether the child will be a boy or a girl. You might want to consider this information when choosing the decoration or designing the invitations. If you do, indicate if the mother-to-be has a color preference. Perhaps the baby is to be a girl, but the color pink is not one of her favorite colors. As hostess, you'd probably choose to stay away from that color for your decorations and guests can avoid picking up clothes or gifts in that color.

The invitations can tie all the aspects of the together. Your invitations announce the theme and give the guests some idea of what to get for a gift and what to bring. While there are many different types of invitations, they all serve the same purpose. Regardless of whether your invitations are store bought, written by hand or homemade and printed from your computer, they make sure guests come to a celebration and have a great time together.