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AIBU?

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Original poster

Baby's first birthday to ask for no boxed gifts?

284 replies

sarak20 · 16/08/2026 08:44

Is this reasonable or no. For some context: I have bought all the toys I would like my baby to play with and don't want others gifting toys that I have no space to store. Is it appropriate to ask for no boxed gifts? Thanks

OP posts:
Daisy12Maisie · 16/08/2026 08:48

Just ask for what you would actually like eg can you get blue winter clothes in age 18 - 24 months. Or can you get some books from this range?
Or if it’s someone that would spend a bit more eg parents could you get us an annual pass to the aquarium.
If someone said no boxed gifts I wouldn’t know what they meant. Just say s/he has lots of toys already so can you get clothes/ books/ a subscription. If you don’t want anything say can we not have presents. Or get them to sponsor them a donkey or something.

ByTipsyShark · 16/08/2026 08:48

Could you not just ask everyone to buy a book instead?

GiftWrappedSuburbanDreams · 16/08/2026 08:47

Could you say no need to bring any gifts, but if they really want to give something, a book or gift voucher for clothes would be appreciated?

AnneLovesGilbert · 16/08/2026 08:47

Raptors · 16/08/2026 08:47

Ask people to buy them a book instead. Asking for no boxes gifts basically translates to give me money.

Exactly this.

Moonnstarz · 16/08/2026 08:47

Who would the message be going to? I don't think you can dictate to friends and wider family, but if you are close to your parents/in laws maybe you could way something to them about preferring savings for the future/soft play pass or whatever you think would be a better alternative.

Beckywiththegoodnails · 16/08/2026 08:47

I’m confused by the reference to a box?
is that to sound less crass than saying money is ok?
how about no gifts

Raptors · 16/08/2026 08:47

Ask people to buy them a book instead. Asking for no boxes gifts basically translates to give me money.

saveforthat · 16/08/2026 08:46

What is the alternative? A non boxed gift? What's that, cash?

Bacarditropicalfizz · 16/08/2026 08:46

YANBU - I think when they are 1 they haven’t got a clue what a birthday is anyway so clothing is a fine gift or nice books.

What kind of gifts would you be happy with?