What is the gift etiquette for kid's bdays?

Question

If you're invited to a kid's bday party and can't go, should you still send a gift? I could have one of my friends take it to the party, or I could try to see the kid's mom after the party and give it to her then, but we're really not the kind of friends where I would get together with her alone, without another reason and a group of people.

Answer 1

Yea you should definately either mail it or drop it off. Then the family will know that you really wanted to come and that you are sorry that you couldnt.

Answer 2

you could drop the present off before the party if you cannot attend , I would!

Answer 3

Frankly, if we aren't going to the party, and we really aren't close, I usually don't send a gift.  I usually only send a gift if I did want or plan to go to the party but couldn't for some reason, and if the birthday person (or family) is someone we are friendly with.

I hope I helped.  I guess what I'm saying is:  you probably shouldn't send one, hehe.

Answer 4

No gift needed if you do not attend.If the child is not kin to you,why then?Sounds like you were invited just because..Have fun somewhere else..

Answer 5

If you can't go, you do not owe her a gift. Since you are not even close to her, it's more reason that you don't give any gifts. If you do meet her in the future, just say thanks for the invite and assume that she undertands that you can't attend for a good reason. No need for further explanation. After all, you are not close and will not be close in the future.

Answer 6

If you aren't that close, then don't worry about it, no gift needed. I generally only send gifts to parties I don't attend if it is immediate family or a very close friend. Actually, I don't know why you would be invited to a birthday party for a child you hardly know, sounds like the parents are gift hunting.

Answer 7

Send a birthday card with money.