that's funny thal. i think that only works when it's a bachelor party and there's girl strippers. but, thankfully, my husband didn't do that - i don't think anyways. i'm all for the bride and groom keeping in close touch. i mean - how many years of being a single girl or gal - why the last minute rush to have something other than the best choice you picked? i say - can the strippers.
here's what you want, elpeth. you want a 'pampered bride' shower. tell the guests to bring her spa supplies only. bath products, gift certs to spa, or have the shower at a spa. and, well, if you want to make it cheaper - set up your home for the day as a spa. get the toe pedicure things out - good smelling aromas - candles. the works.
here's some ideas to plagarize. you can make you own for much cheaper - or just buy them already made -
www.beau-coup.com/bridal_shower_favors.htm (yes. i plagarized the pampered bride idea off this site).
also, there's really cheap stuff you can make (sachets, etc) that are fun. kitchen stores have some good aroma stuff to fill them with. and, well, you could combine the spa idea with some various tea breads as well. i found this very cool book of tea breads and can give you some recipies if you want.