I think its great And the true original sense of what the baby shower was about was to provide small gifts that were essentials, for the baby. To help the parents be prepared for the birth and those first few weeks. I threw a shower for my SIL and it was great, I gave each person an "essential" to bring, ie. wipes, nappies, singlets etc etc and we put it all in a nappy bucket. *If* anyone then felt the need to bring anything else they could, but it wasn't necessary. We played some games, talked about impending birth and ate lots of yummy food! I didn't think of it as a materialistic thing at all, it was as sarah put it a celebration of impending birth, and also for friends and family to offer and show their support. We had a book of love & support where everyone could offer their blessings for the twins and any words of wisdom or love for the parents.

As for doing it yourself, why not! I am one of those people who loves any excuse for a celebration, I love a party and I love to host one even more

I didn't get to do one with Paris, but SIL & some friends have assured me I won't be getting away without one this time around

*hugs*
Cailin