For the last couple of showers I’ve done, I’ve created an extra gift for the bride or mom-to-be. In a small gift bag or a basket that coordinates with the shower theme/colors, I’ve gathered things such as the following and then given to her at the party’s end:

• Pretty thank you notes, a list of names and addresses of all shower invitees, and stamps OR pre-addressed, pre-stamped thank you notes
• A copy of the invitation and any party games for use in her scrapbook
• A CD of photos taken at the party (quickly burned before the guest of honor leaves)

If you really want to take it up a notch and if you have multiple hosts, you could do some extras:

• Create a scrapbook page ahead of time with openings for pictures and/or give her an album for the event with coordinating papers and embellishments
• Add a gift certificate for a digital photo book at a place like
• Package extra cake or cupcakes to be eaten/shared later
• Include any recipes from the shower that she might like to duplicate. Or even better, if it is a mom-to-be, make extras and freeze them so she has a ready-made meal available
• Add a nice bottle of wine that you either served at the shower or you know is her favorite. Of course, not a great idea for the future mother but the bride-to-be will appreciate it to help her unwind from her hectic schedule.