My MIL wanted to organise mine for DD....she was flippin' useless! I secretly organised my own games, because I knew hers would be poorly thought out and planned for. I was right. I even had to organise the food that day, because she hadn't! And chairs for all 50 guests! In the end half had to stand, in the heat of February 2010 (scorching!). I also had to handle my own invites (handmade!)
Needless to say, I flat out refused any offers of a 2nd (my two are only 15 months apart anyway....my baby showers wouldve literally been a year apart!)

As far as gifts go......if you want them, then i'd have a little bubble on the invite that had some gift ideas, but maybe say its not necessary, they will anyway. Ppl would appreciate a heads up I think