Opinions regarding birthday party etiquette

Not sure if this belongs here, but it is something I am sure other parents have to deal with.

DS was born within days of some of his cousins (not the same year) so planning his bday party always involves asking my in-laws about their plans with respect to choosing the date.

DS was born at the end of August and the weekend after his birthday is always labor day weekend.

This year, my nephew's birthday is the Sunday before DS's bday. I asked my SIL when she was planning on doing her sons birthday and when I told her that her sons bday fell on a Sunday, she said she was doing it that day.

So, i just have a possible opportunity for a party place, but the only day available is the Saturday before DS bday. Do you think she would get offended if I book my sons bday party they day before her sons bday and party? I am definitely going to ask her, but i just wanted to know what others thought about this situation, so at least I could be prepared for her possible response.

Sorry this is so long. Thanks if you have gotten through this.

Re: Opinions regarding birthday party etiquette

She's not going to love it, but at least it's not the same day. I have a situation currently where a family member has booked a place for their child's bday on the my son's bday. And of course we share alot of the same relatives. It's weird, yes and it's not ideal. For me it happened b/c they did not ask. In your situation I applaud you for trying to coordinate. But also, be aware that since you did discuss it ahead of time she may be offended b/c you are contemplating booking yours knowing that it's the same weekend when in theory since you are armed with the knowledge you could've avoided it.

Re: Opinions regarding birthday party etiquette

She might not be too keen on the idea, but it's not on the same day. Besides, you are asking her first too which is more than some people will do. The worst thing she can do is say that she minds.

Re: Opinions regarding birthday party etiquette

I personally would be fine with it if I were her. Their b-days are near each other, I'm sure it's always going to be a scheduling issue.

Hope she doesn't have much of an attitude about it!

Re: Opinions regarding birthday party etiquette

I am in the same situation with my family.

My DS and niece were born 3 days apart.

My cousin has a DS who was born exactly a year later on the same day as DS. We are close with them.

Not to mention Labor Day is around their b-days as well.

Last year we (my SIL & I) combined their day - it was their 1st.

We aren't planning parties until they turn 5 at this point, but I envision furture issues with scheduling when they are all in school and want to have seperate parties.

I think we all have to remember to not take offense as to who plans when or where or what.

Re: Opinions regarding birthday party etiquette

Thanks for the responses ladies!