A nice way around the gift issue is to have the reason for the party be a surprise. Be sure to write thank-you notes for any gifts you receive as soon as you can. This bears repeating. Keep up with your thank you notes. Keep a list of all the gifts you receive, including cards with checks in them.
Tape cards to boxes.
Write a personal note by hand after both of you have had the chance to open and appreciate a gift. This goes for engagement gifts, shower gifts, and wedding gifts. Many guests will bring gifts to the reception. You can write thank-you notes for these upon your return from your honeymoon.