Traditionally, baby showers were held for the firstborn child in the family. Today, more and more people hold baby showers for each child coming into the family, including adopted children. Having the perfect baby shower takes a lot of love and a little advance planning to give the mom-to-be the best day possible!

Showers are best held around the seventh month of pregnancy, so the mother to be can enjoy it and still move actively without discomfort and getting too tired. Usually a family member from one side or the other plans and hosts the shower, although in some cases the woman's friends may step in and take over. Co-workers and employers may also choose to throw a baby shower.

Guests for the shower should include immediate family, close friends and even neighbors. You may decide on a woman only shower, or opt for a couples shower. Men can have fun at a baby shower too! Themes are fun - especially if come of the gifts are décor oriented. Furniture, bedding, wall art and accessories come in myriad designs, and can be used to set the tone for the party. Sports themes for a baby boy are popular, and princess themes for girls.

One thing to remember is to be considerate if a close friend or family member has suffered a loss or had trouble having a child themselves; in cases such as these, contact them personally before invitations are sent and find out if they would be uncomfortable and rather not attend.

Planning ahead for the shower is crucial. Guests may need to coordinate gifts to avoid duplication. In some cases (particularly for subsequent children) you may choose to hold a shower where all the gifts are diapers or other sensible items, since furniture, bedding and even clothing may be available from a previous child. Baby registries are also an option to avoid any mishaps.