Do people still buy baby gifts for distant acquaintances and extended family?

[omgitchiness]

What is the current approach?

I had my first baby in the 90's. We received cards and gifts from so so many people. Neither me nor DH are close to extended family on either side but received something from them all.
We also got things from colleagues, friends and neighbours of my parents and ILs who we had never met etc etc

Does this still happen?
Should we buy a gift for my DD's SIL who we only met at the wedding?
For next door's DD who we only see to say hello to?

Thank you

I do tbh - my recent one was a close friends step child’s baby. We got so many gifts for our kids when they were born from parents friends. I always thought it was lovely

No. We have stopped buying for those people.

If you are going to visit them I would. If it is close friend/fanily then i'd definitely send something.

Do you enjoy gift giving? Then yes. If not, no. I stick to actual friends, cousins etc - that’s as
far as I go.

Me and my partner had our first baby least year and we couldn’t believe how many distant relatives and neighbours we had never even met before gave us gifts for the new baby. It was so generous and kind of everyone, but a little overwhelming to be honest! We would not have had any expectations on these people, so I don’t think you should feel you “should” do it. In a way, because these people really don’t know us well we ended up with a lot of stuff we didn’t need or use, and a lot of duplicates. So it was well meaning but unnecessary. I know gift cards are impersonal but they really are a useful gift in these situations. The best gifts we received were not even for the baby, it was the home cooked meals dropped off my some friends, and food treats like chocolates to help us get through the sleep deprivation!

I buy gifts for friends and family that I’m in touch with. Generally something for the baby and the parents too. Ones I don’t live near I’ve sent chocolates or cakes ordered online.

I wouldn’t buy/send anything to distant relatives or neighbours I don’t know and wouldn’t expect it either. I’d find it a bit odd if I didn’t really know the giver.

No. DH's nieces have had babies and I don't buy for them. They live abroad and we're not close. If DH wants to buy something he can.

No