Birthday Gifts - Geneva,IL

I'd say if they ask what she'd like then suggest gift cards, otherwise then Yes, it would seem 'tacky' to request it ahead of time.

Why not pack up everything but the new toys she receives for the move? It may make the move a little more tolerable for her to have all of the new stuff to play with. Gift cards will be a nice shopping trip treat on the 'other side' to help her make the transition, but a few new favorite toys and games may help her through the first weeks. Besides, do you really want to hear 'When can we go shopping?' for the first few weeks of your move?

I strongly agree with Kim C's advice, but with one small caveat. She wrote "most people will understand" - I think everyone will understand. Particularly given your upcoming move, I can't imagine anyone not understanding both the legitimacy and tactfulness of such a reasonable and polite request, or even thinking for a second that it was inappropriate in any way whatsoever.

Whenever your daughter is ready for a no-gifts party, here is what I thought was a very clever note that a mom recently wrote in a birthday party invitation to my daughter for her daughter's 5th birthday party: "Your presence is requested, but your presents are not necessary."

I think making gift requests can be a touchy subject for some. What about just letting things be, but if your daughter receives toys, explain to her that they are going to be packed away after the party, and she can take them out of the boxes after you settle into your new home?

Hi K., I hate for my kids getting a bunch of useless toys for their birthdays. They already have so many toys, it's really just very wastefull for them to get more.
My husband especially is very against toys at this point.
The kids only play with them for 5 minutes.....

When I invite people for the kids' birthdays I send an E-vite and on there I say not to bring toys since we already have a lot of them. Instead of toys I make a suggestion, to bring books, gift cards or money.
I usually just allow one toy gift so the kids someting fun to unwrap.... All the people understand and I've never had any problems with that....

Of course there is...I have done this, just put on the invite, because of the move "your daughters name" would appreciate gift card,or small gift items as much of the stuff has been packed away. Thanks for understanding.

Most people will understand.....Good LUck with the party and the move.