Graceful way to say no gifts?

[Vacation Lover]

I'm throwing a surprise birthday party for my husband. I know that technically it's bad manners to say "no gifts" on the invitation, but I REALLY don't want anyone thinking they need to bring one. The only thing I can think of is something like "Your gift is your presence." Any ideas?

 

[kevschickee]

people will want to bring somthing anyway so why don't you ask them to bring a toy to donate or canned goods?

 

[brymolmom]

Is there a charity that your family is close to? You could say - Come help us celebrate. In Lieu of gifts - at the party we will be accepting donations for THIS CHARITY as it is close to our hearts. Then just put a wrapped box with a hole in the top on the gift table at the party with a note saying THIS CHARITY THANKS YOU FOR YOUR CONTRIBUTION - where people can drop their donations. It's a win-win - guests don't feel awkward without being able to bring something plus you get to help a great cause.

 

[snickerboo]

"Your presence is our present"

 

[NJR]

"Best wishes only"

 

[dzneelvr]

Since food pantries are in such sad shape due to the economy, I had great luck asking guests to bring either multi packs of toilet paper or peanut butter and jelly for our local pantry and the donation will be made in the "Birthday Boy's" name. Guests told me my choices were much more helpful than the huge category of "canned goods". You can pick any items that may not be regularly contributed.Something to think about

 

[Alesia]

I know I'm in the minority, but I think it's rude to tell people how to (or how not to) spend their own money. Even if your heart's in the right place.

 

[mjantz]

'Your friendship has been a cherished gift throughout the years. We need no other'

We put this recently on an invitation & while a few gifts still showed up, most people didn't bring anything but themselves & a card (which was perfect).

 

[terri01p]

'Your friendship has been a cherished gift throughout the years. We need no other'

We put this recently on an invitation & while a few gifts still showed up, most people didn't bring anything but themselves & a card (which was perfect).

I like this and think it would be perfect, and with the ecomony like it is probably a welcomed relief.

 

[Vacation Lover]

Thanks for the ideas. Some of the people invited are fairly new friends so I think I'm going to edit mjantz suggestion to "Your friendship is a cherished gift. We need no other." I new you guys would be able to help!

 

[momto2GAgirls]

I am also including this on an invitation. "No presents, please. Your prescence is her present!"

 

[JerseyMamaBear]

I like that answer too. Well done!