Generally, though, it's more fun to take your time and do your baby shower planning properly. So if you have your eight weeks -- or even if you don't -- here's a timeline to help you figure out how to organize a baby shower.

So why bother with a centerpiece at all? There are a couple of reasons. First of all, a really good centerpiece attracts a lot of attention, which means you can keep the rest of your baby shower decorations very simple. Second, the centerpiece often doubles as a gift for the mom-to-be, which is a nice touch for any shower. And third, because it's not as common anymore, it sets your shower apart from the crowd.

Convinced? If so, here are some baby shower centerpieces to start with!

This is less common with baby shower themes, probably because people tend to have a stock of traditional baby shower gift ideas they know the expectant mother will want and need. Still, it can be fun to coordinate gifts around a theme, so if you want to give it a try, here are some great themes and gifts that go with them.

Although I'm as big a fan of unique baby shower themes as anyone, there's such a thing as going too far. Here's a good general question: Can I get most of the stuff I need without leaving my neighborhood/town/city? If the answer is yes, you're in good shape.

These unique baby shower themes are creative and original, but you won't go crazy looking for decorations, favors, and invites.

So what is the baby shower etiquette when it comes to a 2nd baby shower, and how should you handle the situation?

Maybe the mom to be just isn't the tame type -- you get the feeling she'd rather be having the shower in a dance club. Or maybe you have a group of outgoing adventurous friends who just aren't into baby bingo. No problem! You can wow the crowd with these interesting baby shower activities.

Cupcakes are perfect baby shower ideas. They lend themselves naturally to being cute and tiny, just like a baby. And they're much easier to get rid of at the end of the day. People don't like cutting up the cake to take it away with them, but almost anyone will take a cupcake or two.

Here are a few gift ideas to consider. We can't guarantee that no one else will think of them, but it's better than just giving up and buying a pack of diapers.

Music puts us in a social mood. It relaxes us, and it helps get a party into swing. You don't have to play music all night, of course: you can turn it off for games, gift giving, or whatever you like. But you should at least have it playing while people come in and eat, and you should always select your music as carefully as any other part of your baby shower.

Whether you're dealing with a 'flower child' Mom who plans to do everything as green as possible or you just want to encourage environmental responsibility among your friends, a green baby shower makes a fantastic baby shower theme. Here's what you need to do!

If you're stumped, look no further: here are fun baby shower games that will get even the most reluctant participant giggling (at least when she thinks nobody's looking!).