Imagination is the only limitation when deciding on the theme for a shower, but it must be coordinated with the bride.

Because of the many types of showers possible, it does not make sense to have two of the same type of shower if the couple needs a variety of items. Other shower themes can be as diverse as each individual bride. To solicit a variety of gifts for the bride an "Around the Clock" shower can be given. Each guest is given a time of day (or hour of the day) to use as the basis for the gift they choose. For example 8:00am may give a toaster, 6:00pm a frying pan, etc., the better the imagination, the more creative the gifts can be! A "Spice Shower" invites guests to bring a bottle of spice and a recipe that uses the spice along with their gift. A "Pantry Party" likewise incorporates bringing gifts to help the newlyweds stock up on basic food essentials. A gourmet recipe shower invites guests to bring a recipe along with one utensil needed to prepare it. For the romantic couple a "Candlelight Shower" will provide them with gifts such as candles, vases, bath & body products and romantic musical CDs. Seasonal and Holiday showers can include gifts to get a couple started on decorations or other items used for special occasions. For those with crafty friends a "Quilting Shower" can provide a very unique gift the bride will cherish forever.

Each guest is asked to make a quilt square at home and then join at the party to put it all together. If a shower is given by co-workers, most often it is held at the work place at a break, over lunch-time or after hours and one big gift can be given by the group.

Many showers even include the groom, however, a lingerie shower is appropriate when only women will be present. When both men and women are invited, a hobby or travel shower is unusual and it solicits gifts the couple can enjoy together. Other ideas for a couples shower can include a themed dinner and board games or even a mock "newlywed game" which provides fun and entertainment for all the couples who attend. Another popular shower for both couples and singles is a Wine & Cheese Tasting Shower. For this shower attendees are asked to bring two bottles of wine, one for tasting and one as a gift for the bridal couple. Toasts to the bridal couple are given by the guests as they sample the wine.

The wine & cheese shower is most appropriate for couples who already have many items for their home and of course, enjoy wine. A fun theme for couples who may not have many household items is the "Handy Hardware Shower". This type of shower can incorporate a variety of helpful gifts that can be found at a hardware store (or elsewhere). Gifts such as a hammer, step ladder, broom, pail, shovel, etc. are appropriate. The host/hostess can use this theme and incorporate tools in the decorations and invitations. For this shower guests are asked to include a handy household hint written on a card and presented with their gift.

The list of ideas goes on and on. It is best to use the interests of the bride and groom and their needs as the basis for the type of shower decided on. From there, creativity and planning will make the shower a sure success.