graciously asking for no gifts

[cschin4]

Re: graciously asking for no gifts

I personally would not like to be asked to fund someone's college fund. I find that tacky. And, a bit over the top for a child's birthday party.

[starving_student]

Re: graciously asking for no gifts

Maybe if you ask your child friends or their parents but grand parents aunts and uncle will like the idea.

[rob62521]

Re: graciously asking for no gifts

I think having the party around a theme like bringing pillow for the homeless shelter sounds great. Or, what about canned goods for the food pantry in town? I do think the personal phone call would be best to each parent explaining how you feel blessed and having more gifts isn't necessary, but if they felt a need, to give something that could be given to others.

Lots of good advice from all of you!

[funnyvalentine]

Re: graciously asking for no gifts

i did a bar mitzvah recently at which the host asked for no gifts, but contributions to a food pantry, to be brought to the party site. It was wonderful for the guests to see the pile of donations as they left.

[cschin4]

Re: graciously asking for no gifts

Sorry, I guess I am just a curmudgeon. But, I would not really want to be asked to donate to the food pantry, etc for a birthday party. There is nothing wrong with celebrating someone's birthday and giving THEM a gift! I don't like forced charity. I will chose my own charities, thank you.

[BCHGRL]

Re: graciously asking for no gifts

Here is an idea for an invitation -

"Please join us to celebrate Owen's birthday! In lieu of gifts, please bring a new or gently used toy for Owen to share with XX charity."

Then you can take your son with you to donate and instill in him the sense of giving to others. Plus, parents can get rid of any toy (in good condition) that their child no longer uses. If someone brings a toy that is intended for Owen, you can say "how sweet of you, I'm sure Owen will enjoy sharing this with a child in need."