Too many baby showers! Help!...I work with "younger" ladies.....?

Question

and I have about a baby shower a month. The last one was for a co-workers 16 year old daughter! While I realize she needs baby stuff too, I can't afford to go on like this! Some are wedding showers, but most are for people I really don't know all that well. How do I excuse myself and not feel like a cheap jerk? (The showers are held at work) Thanks

Answer 1

I would definitely stand up for yourself and only go to the showers that are for people you actually have some sort of friendship with. I mean seriously, if someone is actually that bold to hold a shower for their 16 year old daughter and expect you to get her a gift, then they are taking advantage of your kindness and generosity. You really don't owe anyone an explanation either. It is your decision to attend or not. If they confront you, then unfortunately, you will need to be completely honest and just tell them why you didn't go. They can not be angry for your honesty and you will feel better knowing you did the right thing.

Answer 2

Just because you receive an invitation for an event, doesn't mean you're obligated to go. And it's always been my opinion that you shouldn't have to give an excuse if you don't go.

I used to work at a doctor's office with over 50 female employees! Trust me, I know how it can be with weddings and babies. Really, all you need to do if you don't feel like going is send a gift card from where they're registered inside a Hallmark card saying you're sorry you couldn't attend the shower and either "best wishes", "good luck" or, "congratulations" (or some variation of the three).

Answer 3

When given the invitation to a party that you are not friends with the honoree you simply say, "I am sorry I don't even know Karen I will not be able to attend." Especially no is the co-workers daughter - so what if she needs stuff??? That is not your responsibility. And who has a baby at 16?? Don't reward that type of behavior with gifts!!!

If the other people in the office really are that much younger this is your perfect opportunity to help train them. Let them know the shower is for the real friends of the new mother - not just every single person she has ever come into contact with in her life. A shower is to help celebrate the new birth it should not be about how many gifts this person needs.

Answer 4

I'd be tempted to offer generic "sorry, I have other plans" for the showers for the people I really have no relationship with (like the co workers daughter, yikes!). If you like someone, and have financial issues because there are so many showers, do you have Dollar Tree stores where you live? They have tons of baby stuff- so for $7.00 t0 $10.00 you could put together a nice basket or bag of wipes, baby lotion, shampoo, bibs, etc.......I got several lullaby cd's there that my sister in law still plays for my nephew, and he just turned 3.

Answer 5

If the showers are held at work and you"re the only one bowing out, it is going to be difficult to avoid looking like a "cheap jerk".

If you're being asked for donations toward a gift, make the donation commensurate with the friendship. Barely know 'em--$5.00. Good friend--$25.

If you're expected to provide a gift, consider asking several people who might be like-minded to pool their money toward a joint gift.

You can always buy inexpensive gifts. There are necessities that make welcomed gifts for babies that are under $10.

If you have such skills, you can make a gift. A crocheted baby blanket is a thoughtful gift and can be made very inexpensively.

Answer 6

Say you cook or clean for an elderly neighbor or relative on a regular basis and don't have a lot of free time now. If you feel bad about lying, I'm sure you can find an elderly person in your life to legitimately help out. I use my mom for excuses all the time. My mom thinks it's hilarious.

Answer 7

if you don't know the couple you're not obligated to give anything.I would make a comment about not being able to afford it.my last job had a ritual of taking turns buying lunch,so I brought my lunch.
if you feel cheap,and you shouldn't,buy a box of greeting cards and write something nice as a gesture.

Answer 8

You're being had, you must be gullible as hell.
Your being invited because the word has gotten out that you will bring a good gift! These people don't know you...c'mon lady!

Answer 9

pick something like a box of diapers and make it your standard gift. It's practical and not too expensive. Good luck with this.

Answer 10

As with any event you are invited to, you are free to decline the invitation.