Ok, parents....gift question

We got invited to my DH's niece's 5th b-day party. She has 2 older brothers. We are not really close to them and only see them a few times a year. I can't go to the party bc I have a bridal shower and my DH has plans to clean out the basement from the flooding. So I mailed her a birthday card with princess stickers etc.

My SIL (DH's sister not the kid's mom) says to me "Even if you don't go you should give a gift. It's not right, she is your niece". Now, we don't go to ALL of their parties...so she says "When you have kids you will expect that too". This coming from someone who is 40 and single. Never married no kids. So I said to her, no I don't think I will, if I invite someone and they cannot make it, I don't still expect a gift...

Oh and did I mention that my BIL and SIL are filthy rich loaded and the kid has more toys than she knows what to do with..

I'm not saying I don't care, but I did mail a card and I don't see the big deal here They "expect" presents?!

Re: Ok, parents....gift question

No I don't think you are obligated to send a gift at all.

I know for my DD I don't invite people thinking how many gifts i can get for my daughter.

For her 1st birthday I have alot of had to invite out of town people, in no way would i expect them to send anything.

Re: Ok, parents....gift question

I always think if you want to send a gift then go for it. If you don't feel the need or desire to send a gift, then don't. I don't think there's a right or wrong on this topic. Go with your gut!

Re: Ok, parents....gift question

I don't think you have to send a gift, however, I always send gifts to my nieces/nephews whether we're at their parties or not (2 live in CA).

I think the card & stickers was perfect.

Message edited 4/20/2007 8:18:44 PM.

Re: Ok, parents....gift question

Thanks mommies