Gift giving etiquette question...re: gift cards

if someone gives you a gift card for a certain amount, are you obligated to give the same $$ value?

I really can't afford to return the favor (it's family) but I don't want them to think negatively of us if we give less than they gave us.

Re: Gift giving etiquette question...re: gift cards

i don't think you should have to give back the same amount. it's the thought that counts anyway.

i went through something similiar to this with my wedding. my friend gave us $600 cash! my husband and i were completely shocked. when her wedding came around, i didn't give her $600 back. some people think i was wrong, but i didn't

Re: Gift giving etiquette question...re: gift cards

it depends on a Whole bunch of things (if it were me in the picture).
if i was going to give them a $50 gc, and they gave me $75, then i'd probably just give the $75... b/c i'd rather lay out the extra $25 to avoid any 'issues'.

if i was going to give them $50, and they gave me $300-- then i'd probably try to buy them something Really nice using the GC they got me (if this were possible based on the store).

i try to keep it pretty even... but i guess it depends on the relationship with the person, and if money is less of an issue for them

Re: Gift giving etiquette question...re: gift cards

well....it's my stepbrother and FSIL who are saving for a wedding, but they make pretty good money and live at home.

US: we've just bought a house, have a baby due any day now, etc. and money IS an issue for us right now.

My whole family understands our situation and even said to not buy anything if that's the way it had to be.

The ONLY person I spent a lot on was my sister (digital camera on sale for $89) because she bought US a digital video camcorder for DH & I b-days back in Sept.

Re: Gift giving etiquette question...re: gift cards

Give what you can. I really think the point of giving is just that, not keeping score.

I don't know if this helps...but we are close to a family of 5 that doesn't have a lot of money. We are pretty generous with gifts for their kids knowing the couple cannot afford to give us something of the same value and we really never ever think that we got short changed or anything.

Re: Gift giving etiquette question...re: gift cards

Re: Gift giving etiquette question...re: gift cards

Shana give what you can afford. I'm sure they know your financial situation and would understand.