If saving the environment by not using paper and bows is the reason, then ask that people use recyclable or reusable packaging, like Irishrose2 suggested, but don't skip that part of the shower.[/QUOTE]
There are so many ways to "save the environment" Stitching up a fun gift bag from our scraps even, or using one of those ready made gift bags that can be saved and reused, or even using a receiving blanket, or pillow case, or well, probably not these days, but we used to just wrap gifts in newspaper with twine to "save the environment. Also my sister and I have used paper bags which we decorated ourselves. As children we had to unwrap our gifts carefully so mom could save and reuse the wrapping paper. Actually, I have thought of making up a supply of gift bags out of my scraps to have on hand.