Is it wrong to only buy X-mas presents for your husband and daughter?

Question

Every X-mas, we always spend a crapload on gifts because we never want to leave anyone out. This X-mas I thought why not just buy for my 2 year-old and husband? Is that wrong? And should I let people know that?

Christmas is supposed to be about Jesus Christ. I think we've been brainwashed by corporations to buy, buy, buy and end up getting in debt. My husband and I are saving to move to Florida and we just thought this year we could just buy gifts for us.

jon mac-Dont' be melodramatic.

Answer 1

A gift is just that - a gift. Not a requirement.

I would let it be known among the relatives and friends what you are planning to do, so nobody gets surprised and resentful. Other than that, just realize that they will do what they want to do, and if they buy you a gift, so be it.

I bet they won't next year!

I like your ideas, by the way. I'm so sick of commercial Christmas I could scream.

Answer 2

Since you asked for opinions, here are mine:
I think parents should get a gift if they are still in the picture, brothers and sisters if they do not have children. If they have children, send the parents a set amount of money for each child and let them pick the gift (you will spend less this way then if you try to figure out something yourself). I don't mean 50 dollars, I mean 15-20 tops.
As for friends and extended family, just inform them that you are not exchanging gifts this year. Tell them that you love them though or value their friendship, etc. Pick up a pack of cards and a roll of stamps and send out cards. That means you have acknowledged everyone for WAY less than gifts cost.

Another option, you and your husband can use is to do a secret santa with extended family and friends, that cuts down on everyone's spending.

Answer 3

We have a rule in my house -- if you are over the age of 18, you don't get a present. That includes older siblings, cousins, nieces, nephews, parents -- the whole nine yards.
Let your familiy know that this year, you are limiting your spending to you, your husband and your daughter. Let them know you will not be buying gifts for anyone other than that, AND that you also do not expect gifts (because that's the only way that works)
If people insist on getting you gifts, thank them, but re-explain your new Christmas policy.
I think most people will be GLAD to not have to buy meaningless gifts for everybody and thier brother! My family seemed relieved to take the stress off buying and to focus on time together.

Answer 4

I bet if you explained your delima everyone around you would agree that Christmas buying is out of hand! They would probably all be willing to tone it down and not exchange gifts for everyone just really close family, like your daughter and husband. maybe you could create a coupon book and exchange babysitting or a homecooked meal instead of expensive gifts.how about a low key craft with your daughter for the grandparents, homemade christmas ordaments maybe? I don't know I hope this helps, its kinda understood in our family that we only buy for our in home family and everyone gets something for our grandma.

Answer 5

it depends on your situation! Is there a way you can still make something for other people? like use your home printer to make a collage of pictures of your 2-yr old and family throughout the year? your could have that printed for a dollar per page and get inexpensive frames at a walmart...

or make a big plate of cookies for people! people love food...

I understand where you are coming from... I have a few friends with multiple kids... 4+ here and 2 there and 3 there... so it is so hard to budget to get the kids things when i have ONE child and they rarely remember to get us things back... makes it seem stingy because it supposed to be about GIVING but year after year we just get tired of it! our family has kinda stopped growing but they still expect something for each, etc... one year we gave a larger gift for all the kids in one family and i got an attitude back from the oldest that she shouldnt have to share... the parents didnt correct her either.

i think it is up to you all... i think making something would be precious - espeically to close friends and family... let your 2 y/o finger paint something and frame it, etc... or make something into ornaments...

good luck! and dont feel bad.

Answer 6

Its not wrong. you might want to explain to your parents and anyone else who you normally exchange gifts with. Just tell them that things are a little tighter financially this year and you're not going to be able to do the things you have done before. They will probably still buy for you, but you shouldn't feel bad about not buying for them if you explain yourself ahead of time.

Answer 7

its not wrong but i would say that it isnt wise remember christmas is a time for giving personally i love to shop and see the look on peoples faces when they recieve a present if u dont have the money then u dont have to buy but if u just arent buying just because u dont want to then you arent fully accepting the gift of christmas

Answer 8

When our families got bigger, my Sister and I decided that we would buy only presents for each others' kids, and my parents only buy for the grandkids. We told our friends that we would rather spend time with them than exchange gifts, and they all agreed. So other than a few presents for my niece, we only buy presents for immediate family, and nobody seems to mind. Just make it clear up front.

Answer 9

Isn't there another way for you to show your friends and family you love them, aside from buying them gifts? How about you bake a bunch of cookies and give everyone goodie baskets? Or something like that?

Answer 10

I think that it is perfectly acceptable to buy gifts for your immediate family only. Defiantly let your family know that you will not be participating in a "family" gift giving exchange this year.