Hi,
I'm planning a baby shower for my SIL. It's her first baby after 2 m/c so I want to make it special for her. But, she lives in america and has come home to have her baby. She'll be leaving when the baby is only 6 weeks old, and doesn't have much room for gifts and baby things. Should i say "no gifts", or have a wishing well? What would you do and how would you word an invitation where guests could contribute towards baby items when she return to the states?
TIA
Leesha

I would just say something along the lines of:

"As you can understand arriving in Australia as 2 and leaving as 3 is going to be quite a suitcase space challenge. We love that you love us enough to celebrate this special event with us but would like to request no gifts. If you would like to make a small gesture of money that will go towards buying items back home it would very much appreciated"

Sorry best I could come up with but I think people will understand if you say no gifts or small gifts and explain to them why?

Good Luck

What about an online gift service based in the states where guests can order an item to be sent to her home when she returns.

I like what Carla suggested, they can wither give her the money or give out her bank account so they can transfer the $$'s across as if most people are like me they find it easier to do net banking.

Or another idea is ask people to contribute to baby's library by bringing a book or two. & Then as your gift you can pay for the postage of the box home. Most kids books aren't too heavy.

You can get a pack called 'celebrating motherhood' (often found in the 'greenie' style shops) which suggests that guests purchase or bring a special bead/pendant that all combine to make a bracelet for the mother-to-be. Another idea is that each guest research and bring a meaningful verse with them printed on paper that is included in the invitation. These verses can be placed into a small memory box for the child - which the mother can add other things too like birth story, ultrasound pics etc.