invite question - no gifts for LO's party?

huntjul

Posted on FB too, but wanted to give TB a chance to vote too.

Is it weird to say "let your presence be your gift" or a similar no-gift sentiment for LO's and DH's bday party? It's a chill beach bbq and although the invite is clear that we're providing food and drinks, people often show up at these beach events with chips, wine, etc. So I feel like they may already bring something. Plus it's celebrating both DH and LO's bdays so I don't want people to think they need to buy 2 gifts. I'm sending out our e-invite today (yup, pretty late but that's island time for ya) and was wondering what to put on it.

blueeyedrose86

I put it on our invites, but fully expect people to ignore it. If anything, I'm hoping it will make people think about gift size. We are road tripping it from Arkansas to Michigan(our home state) for my BIL's wedding, so we planned DD's birthday for the day after. I really just want a chance for everyone to see her and whatnot, but I know I can't stop people.

ajjf1026

@blueeyedrose86 How long will you be in MI for?

AlwaysForgetful

You can. From experience, some people will ignore it. Others will follow it and then feel awkward by those who ignored it and feel bad that they brought nothing.  Some won't care either way, and some will be put off by you not asking for gifts.

catycate

I always say the only presents she wants is your presence. But no one ever listens and if I'm being honest I always bring a gift even if the invite says no. I used to not but then like pp said, I always felt awkward.

dovetail223

I think people want to get babies gifts. Probably no one will bring your DH anything cause he's an adult and doesn't need presents. I would leave gift mentioning off the invite mostly cause I just always think that comes off bitchy in writing. My own hang-up.

LetsGoToDisney

We made a 'no gifts please' request because she has already been treated very generously by the people in her life. Only my MIL didn't bring a gift, it was awkward where we already have a rocky situation. 

blueeyedrose86

@afolske106‌ We will be there from the 8th to the 13th. We originally planned longer, but DH's leave got cut short due to manning

Jalee85

I just wouldn't mention anything. Unless you know for sure that everyone will feel it neccessary to get YH and YD a gift.

ajjf1026

blueeyedrose86 said:

@afolske106‌ We will be there from the 8th to the 13th. We originally planned longer, but DH's leave got cut short due to manning

What area are you going to be in? @blueeyedrose86‌

blueeyedrose86

@afolske106 Southeastern! Do you live in MI?

ajjf1026

Yes I do @blueeyedrose86‌!! That's why I'm asking all the creepy questions. Lol I live in SE MI too!!