Need suggestions please...

MommyToAshley wrote: Ashley is invited to a birthday party next weekend, and on the invitation it states:
(No gifts please. Seriously, no gifts please, we are out of room)

I hate to show up for a birthday party without a gift (even though it was requested). So, I was thinking I'd just get him a card and either a gift card to someplace or make a donation in his name. Or what about a savings bond?

If I went the gift card route, what kind of gift card should I get. My first thought was ToysRUs but then that would just mean more toys and I don't think they want that. Maybe a gc to McDonald's -- I don't know... help me out here please.

BAC'sMom replied: Barnes & Noble or some other book store in your area

Jamison'smama replied: Maybe movie passes, museum or zoo gift certificate or in the card write that "this card is good for one free movie playdate with Ashley"

mom2my2cuties replied: I believe that it's best to honor the wishes of the parent because they are thinking MAN! Christmas was just here

But I also know that it's hard to show up empty handed at a party. Especially when the little person is used to getting gifts on his/her birthday.

I think maybe a family pass to the zoo or movies would be a good idea. Something the little person would enjoy, but it wouldn't add to clutter in the house. But I would also make sure that it was given to the parents discreetly because it might make other guests feel uncomfortable.

grandma replied:
Do what the parents requested....

MommyToAshley replied: Oh -- I like all those ideas, the book store and the movie passes! The closest zoo is 45 minutes away, so I think I will do one of those two ideas. I'm thinking the movie passes and write somethign cute about a playdate on the card... thanks, I knew I could count on you all!

lovemy2 replied:

lisar replied:
I like this one also.

momofone replied: maybe a department store gift card.

Kaitlin'smom replied: I deffinalty like the idea of something they can go out and do and a card is always nice for the child

Calimama replied:
GREAT great idea!

DillsMommy replied: Maybe a gift card to chuck-e-cheese. All kids love that place!

I too would feel weird not bringing anything.

Maddie&EthansMom replied: One year we went to a b-day party and they asked for books that could be donated to our school library. I think that is a good idea. I also like the movie pass idea.

coasterqueen replied: I like Brenda's idea

mom21kid2dogs replied: If I chose to go against the stated wish of the host, I would make arragements to deliver the gift either in advance of the party or well after the other guests have left. This way, those that honored the hosts request wouldn't feel out of place, cheap, etc.

mysweetpeasWil&Wes replied:
Good point! And I really like Brenda's idea too...The idea of taking them to a museum or show, with Ashley.