2nd birthdays...no gifts?

RTaylor12

I know this is a while away, but the end of FC got me thinking about her 2nd birthday. This kid has more than enough clothes and toys. I know family will want to buy for her, but seriously, I have too much shit in my house and I don't really feel like having to return a million things after her birthday. Not to mention the fact that last year she got so many impractical outfits that she only wore once or twice. They were appreciated but after I realized how little she wore them I felt bad for the money people "wasted".  Is there a way to tactfully ask on the invitation to buy a small gift or no gift? I know in 6 months I'll probably need more age-appropriate toys and bigger clothes than what she has now, but I'm kind of a control freak and would rather pick out all that stuff myself anyway.

ETA: I know that the obvious solution is just not to have a party, but I've already gotten really excited about a Minnie Mouse theme and I like to throw get-togethers. It's already planned to be a small party with close family and friends only, at our house.

RTaylor12

MissMusic said:

You could just say something like "in lieu of gifts, Taylor would like you to make a donation to the ASPCA because she loves kitties!" or something like that.  Or one of those Disney charities that makes kids dreams come true?

If people ask you directly about gifts or are set on them, what about asking for things like a zoo or museum pass?  As in, give her "activities" or "experiences" over material gifts?

Good ideas, thanks. I think it might be a better route to just spread the request by word of mouth. I'm sure MIL will tell her side of the family not to go crazy if I ask. My mom, on the other hand, she's going to go crazy regardless of what I tell her. She's out of control.

KarmB

i dread more shiit in my house. id like giftcards so when she runs out of stuff i can get her what she needs. but im not asking for them.

RTaylor12

andreab7412 said:

We have grandparents get things like swimming lessons, music class, zoo passes, or thinks we can use for the "season". Then if friends get small things its not so much stuff. Also when people ask for ideas I give them specific things like new plates and cups or things we actually need. Or stickers and art things we use and throw away or send them a drawing.

Very good ideas! We've been wanting to do Gymboree classes so maybe they can chip in on that. I can get the grandmas to spread the word.