Does it really matter if you go to a party????

Question

When you go to a party do you really have to buy gifts? Or you just go with out it.... I mean, some people say you have some doesnt... so What>>>>>

Answer 1

Buying gifts is a very religious thing that we've been long indoctrinated with. As for people who throw parties, they've been indoctrinated into thinking that they must expect something in return.

Maybe that's why selfishness and self centred-ness exists.

Answer 2

If it's a birthday party or a shower then yes of course you bring a gift! Housewarmings are also traditionally gift giving occasions but nothing major. If it's an anniversary or retirement or going-away or something like that then a card is all that's really needed or if you're very close to the person a small gift would be nice. If it's a dinner party or a 'party party' just for the heck of it you can bring a hostess gift or a bottle :)

Answer 3

It sort of depends on the occasion, not every party requires a gift. I don't think anyone ever brought anything to the parties at college, unless it was bring your own food/bring your own booze. But here in the neighborhood and then the adult parties (I'm a bit past the college party age :)) people often bring a bottle of wine, flowers or some chocolates. Nothing really fancy or expensive but just a token of appreciation. Birthday parties and other celebrations are different of course, then a gift is expected.

Answer 4

It really depends on the type of party, and the relationship you have to the person having the party. Of course, a birthday, graduation, house warming parties are generally attended with a gift.
If it is "just a party" and you know the person, you might bring a bottle or something like that, OR NOT. If, however, you are attending a party at someones home whom you do not know, a gift really should be brought!

Nothing written in stone, but generally you won't go wrong if you follow those guidelines.

Answer 5

Many, many years ago if you were invited to a gathering/party especially a dinner party it was not only expected but a given that the guest would bring some sort of gift for the host/hostess. Something simple but a gift none the less, it was also a given that your host/hostess would have some sort of token gift for you and or your family/guests. During the Victorian era Tiffany & Company did booming business with just such gifts. They had a specialty line of small silver trinket type gifts that were often engraved with the hosts/hostess name and the date of the event. Today Tiffany & Co still have such gifts available although more difficult to find they are still offered today and most are under $10.

Unfortunately in our modern faster paced society, where we have so much more to amuse us we have strayed away from that tradition in most cases. Remember that before television, computers et all, to be invited to a persons home for a Dinner or a Ball something along those lines was a big social event and often not only your host/hostess but you yourself started the planning for such an event way in advance.

But anyway, in today’s society your not expected to give gifts to your host/hostess but it’s always a nice jesture especially if it’s the first time you have ever been to there home, it just shows that you appreciate there hospitality.

Take care.

Answer 6

I think what was true in my mother's and grandmother's day is still the correct etiquette for today. Here is the advice that was handed down to me:

"Never go to a party empty handed."

take a chip dip, a cheesecake, wine, champagne, a case of soda, beer or bottled waters, flowers for the table, a Mylar balloon, Whatever - just don't go empty handed.

Answer 7

There are parties and then there are parties! Most often, though, people will throw family gatherings, and unbeknown to the guest until they arrive, it is a party where a gift is expected. It is up to you, as that guest, to inquire of which it is.

Answer 8

If you are attending just a regular get together, then no you do not have to bring something. If you are attending a dinner party, it is considerate to bring along a bottle of wine or a dessert.

Answer 9

I think it is important to always bring something if you go to a party at somebody's home. I suppose if it is a really big party, no one would notice, but if not, it is sort of tacky to not bring at least some wine, food, or beer, etc.

Answer 10

I always bring a bottle of wine, a party tray, or a dessert.