No gifts expected...just want to spend the evening with family & friends to celebrate my 40th bday.
2007-12-29 08:54:47 · 14 answers · asked by Anonymous in Society & Culture ➔ Etiquette
Sounds like fun to me, when you are 40 and up you can get away with a lot of stuff.
Make sure you tell them not to bring a gift, just a dish to pass.
You could probably furnish the meat and drinks.
2007-12-29 08:59:07 · answer #1 · answered by Tigger 7 · 0⤊ 1⤋
When I plan a party, it is usually me who provides the food and beverages. Sometimes the guests will ask if they can bring anything, which helps, but it is not necessary.
Don't expect guests to go out of their way to cook or bring something. If cooking or preparing meals is cumbersome, hire a caterer or go to a fancy restaurant.
Don't deny any gifts. Maybe there is a gift that you will like. If you do not like a gift or you can't use it, you can always donate the unwanted gift at the thrift store like "Goodwill" or "Salvation Army.", that way it doesn't clutter the house.
2007-12-29 10:56:41 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
It's not rude. Just invite your friends and family to a potluck dinner in celebration of your 40th birthday. The only thing to remember is that as the hostess it is your responsibility to provide the main dish and drinks.
Have a happy birthday and hope you have a blast at your party!
2007-12-29 09:10:37 · answer #3 · answered by MELISSA B 5 · 2⤊ 1⤋
I don't think it's rude, especially if you specify on the invitations, "no gifts, please" or something similar. You might also specify that you're making a main dish (a meat or something) and that you'd like them to bring side items and desserts.
You could even word it in a way that doesn't make it sound so much like you're throwing yourself a party. For example, "Come help me celebrate my 40th" or "Help push me over the hill."
I would, however, be sure provide all drinks (both alcoholic - if you're having alcohol - and non-alcoholic).
2007-12-29 09:05:23 · answer #4 · answered by Elizabeth 3 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Throwing a party for yourself is already pushing it, as it's considered extremely tacky by most of the pillars of etiquette out there (ie, Emily Post).
However, if you specify "no gifts" AND you provide drinks and the main course, you might get away with it. Asking your guests to provide the entire meal is never acceptable.
2007-12-29 09:19:51 · answer #5 · answered by Liz 3 · 2⤊ 1⤋
I would have the party and especially stress the "no gifts" but I wouldn't ask them to bring a dish unless they ask.
2007-12-29 09:24:35 · answer #6 · answered by Bears Mom 7 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Essentially, you're asking other people to cook for you. You might be able to get away with it, but it's not the best way to do things. Instead, give a party that you can afford.
2007-12-29 10:58:56 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
I understand where you are coming from but.. Why don't you just organize a potluck dinner( not on the exact birthday) and suprise everyone with your birthday cake!
2007-12-29 11:06:06 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I actually think it's a lovely idea, as long as you make it clear that people shouldn't bring gifts. I would not want to be told, "You're making a birthday party for me. Bring a gift and the food, too." Without the gift, I'd love to come.
A very happy birthday to you!
2007-12-31 03:15:36 · answer #9 · answered by Melissa 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It's absolutly rude! You don't expect your guests to foot the bill to your party. If they offer to bring something that is an entirely different story.
It's your birthday not theirs.
2007-12-29 09:39:59 · answer #10 · answered by Violet 4 · 3⤊ 2⤋