Just as selecting a name and decorating a nursery are a natural process when you're expecting a baby, having a baby shower is a staple in most first time pregnancies.

While baby showers that include the expectant father when the gifts are opened, or have a couples theme let a soon-to-be-dad enjoy the party, it still does not allow for him to have his own day to be showered with attention, gifts and games. Despite their admiration and affection for both mom-to-be and baby, dads do not look forward to attending baby showers.

Although most men feel out of place at a luncheon wrapped in pink or blue tulle, many admit they wouldn't mind a day of their own to celebrate their impending arrival. First time dads and repeat fathers alike would appreciate the thoughtfulness and consideration of being made to feel special while anxiously awaiting the birth of their child.

The Basics

Maintaining a masculine flair is usually crucial to planning a dad shower, and most prospective attendees are more likely to jump on board if the event has a catchy theme or name. Ask for his opinion or preferences for his special day. Most men are not concerned with finger sandwiches and frilly cake, so consider a Bar-B-Que buffet or variety of pizzas as the main course. Themes such as "Bill's last baby free bash" or "Rob's pre-baby Bar-b-Que" peak everyone's curiosity and set the tone for a light hearted and fun event.

Enlist Plenty of Help

As much as you know what his favorite cologne may be or just how much salt to add to his popcorn, you may not know what the latest trend in fishing equipment is. Talk to your partner's brother, best friend or a close relative to help plan the event. They can offer a man's perspective, give input on a terrific theme, or know of a buddy with tickets for a sporting event the gang can incorporate in the celebration. If you're planning a surprise remember you'll need help keeping dad in the dark and to the party on time. Someone to handle sending out invitations and fielding questions will be beneficial to making this a stress free day for everyone.

Let Your Creativity Flow

If you're going for a sporty theme, consider using baseballs or footballs as invitations. Using spray mount, you can affix the printed invitations to the item of choice as a fun, masculine and memorable invitation. Instead of almonds wrapped in lace, commemorative baseball hats touting the dad's favorite team that are stuffed with popcorn or peanuts make a great take home gift.

Timing is Everything

Coordinate showers and schedules to coincide or to be held on concurrent weekends, depending on the preferences of the parents to be. Keep in mind you may not want to plan an event too close to the due date, or that may conflict with his work schedule.

Another Baby...Another Party

Another innovative twist is planning a father's shower for a repeat father-to-be. After spiraling through the whirlwind of preparing for a first child, expecting a second child can be more comfortable and methodical. Expectant fathers who know that the gender of their new baby is opposite of a sibling's may also appreciate the opportunity to celebrate his latest uncharted foray into parenting. A father's shower that celebrates a second or third child takes some of the pressure off of family members and friends who are wondering what gift to give the new baby or parents.

Themes and Dreams

A father's shower can be simple and easy to set up since virtually no decorations are necessary. Father's showers do not necessarily have to be centered around giving and receiving gifts. A hip pop might enjoy a poker party that gives him the chance to catch up with friends and show off his ability to assemble the new baby's crib. Some men might enjoy getting together to watch a weekend sporting event, feast on favorite snack foods and share diaper changing horror stories.

Time for Dad

Another option is giving the dad-to-be the chance to have a night or weekend to himself. A father's shower can be nothing more than the opportunity to relax, prepare for fatherhood, or hang out with equally busy friends before your baby arrives.

Ultimately, tailoring a day as special as a mother-to-be's baby shower that centers around a soon to be dad should be a reflection of the honoree as a man as well as a father. Blending some creativity and consideration, you'll make sure the special dad knows just how special he truly is!