What's the most polite way to say in an invitation that we dont want toys for gifts for our childs bday party?

Question

We can't pack the gifts (toys) with us in the flight home.

We are travelling to and from different countries. Shipping is not an option.

Answer 1

Normally I agree with one or two previous posters it's a bit impolite to 'demand' certain gifts (or lack thereof), however if you have a valid reason, as you do, then I think it's fine! Just say what you said here.. don't just say 'no toys' but include the reason, and people should understand.

Answer 2

I hate when people assume everyone wants to give them a gift, though that expectation is deeply ingrained in our culture.

Say that gifts are not necessary in any form, which is infinitely better than telling people what to give you. Suggest a charity such as Make a Wish or Children's Miracle Network that money may be donated to instead, if people insist. This way you aren't throwing a party just for the sake of getting envelopes filled with cash.

Answer 3

I agree with the answer before me. Or else you can just remind everyone that you are having to travel light. We have a VW Beetle and everyone knows that after we load the bags for the 3 of us (we have a toddler, ripe for big toys) there isn't room for big toys.. We get a lot of gift cards and such because of it.

On a side note... If YOU are sending out the invitation.. Why are you traveling somewhere you have to fly home from? Can't they come to YOU? :-)

Answer 4

Just tell them that in the invitation, that you can't pack toys for the flight. Most people will understand. Or say that in lieu of toys, to say they could get a gift certificate to some toy store in your area.

Answer 5

I purely attended my bf's niece's 1st birthday.... her mum and dad did no longer prefer the travelers to hold vast presents so as that they advised all and sundry (by way of observe of mouth) that they might prefer they convey a e book for Olivia in the event that they had to hold something... no stress the two way. It appeared to artwork nicely and Olivia have been given a ton of great new books to examine without mommy having to handle a room packed with presents (they placed out invites yet did no longer incorporate the archives on them) sturdy success

Answer 6

What about putting on the invitation bring a book to exchange and every child will go home with one book including your child. This works out well. The book also works out as a party favor. Good luck!

Answer 7

I agree with those who say to simply mention it on the invitation. I would probably write it this way:
Though many will want to bring a toy for [Child's name]'s birthday present, because we can't pack the toys on the flight home, let us assure you that your{or your child's} attendance will be present enough.
We can hardly wait to see you there!

--That Cheeky Lad

Answer 8

Now, do you not want GIFTS?
Or just not Toys?

I'd say "bring best wishes only" if you don't want gifts.
Suggest a gift certificate if you want Gifts, but can't take them.

It's a tricky thing to dictate the mode of gifting, but hard to NOT let your kids have gifts on their birthday.

Answer 9

Write on the invitation "No toys please, we cannot bring them home with us, due to the flight home".

Then they will take in consideration, and give money,a gift card(perhaps to Toys R US) or maybe a few books.

Answer 10

You can't. It's impolite to in any way mention gift preference, unless asked directly. You can either (1) mail the gifts to your home, (2) exchange them before you leave for books or credit, (3) donate the unwanted gifts to charity before you leave, or (4) keep the gifts wherever you are for your child to play with the next time you visit.