Youve been invited to a baby shower. Now what? Be creative!

Often, there is a usual group of gifts a mother-to-be receives. Car seat, diaper bag, clothes for when baby is older, that type of thing. Try thinking more in terms of what the mother needs as soon as she brings her new baby home.

Lets begin with a receptacle for your gift. Likely she will receive a stroller, car seat, diaper bag and, perhaps, a bouncy swing. She probably wont receive a place to put dirty diapers. How about a peddle-activated, flip-top trash can? It is practical and perfect for holding more goodies. If you choose, there are decals and stickers in baby themes that you may apply to it. If you know the dcor of the nursery, all the better.

Now you need to decide how to fill your diaper pail. First, be sure to add a supply of liners. They will be very appreciated! Add baby powder, something for diaper rash, and baby wipes. These are necessities that the new mother may not have considered. Now toss in a pacifier, teething ring and toys. Receiving blankets are a good idea as are onesies. Often shower gifts consist of clothes for the baby as it grows, clothes for a newborn arent often thought of. If you think of something else the mother, and her newborn, could use add that as well.

To make your present attractive, there are a few ways you can go with it. When placing the gifts in the pail, be sure to put anything crushable on top. You may choose to wrap these gifts individually or not, the choice is yours. Remember though, that there are several other presents to be opened, dont hog the attention! If your presents spill over the top of the pail, thats okay. It will give a hint of what may lie beneath. If the presents fit inside so that the lid may be closed, be sure to leave a receiving blanket or onesie hanging out so that the mother will know that something else is inside. Since the pail will be awkward to wrap, tie a big bow around it and youll be good to go.

This is merely one idea. There are so many ways you can go with this idea and so many ways to personalize it to mother and baby. Run with your creativity and have fun!