My DS is 2.4, he has lots of little friends as i socialise with friends who have children and so gets invited to quite a few bday parties, we have a largish family and although we don't really buy for extended family we still have a lot of people to buy for in the course of The year.
I was discussing this and ways we try and save money with an acquaintance today at a birthday party. I stated that I have a box in my home that has gifts in ready for these events. To explain, this box has children's gifts and adult gifts and comprises of things seen on sale, any gifts we have received that are duplicated, unsuitable or unwanted (i.e. would go to waste) as well as bits i have seen in cheaper stores such as pound land (books dvds i even found an xbox game in there!!).
I should be clear and say that these items aren't tat I only buy things i would be happy to receive and the items are all in as new condition.
The person Stated she thinks that is horrible and "tight". I get her perspective that the gift isn't purchased solely with the recipient in mind but it is always appropriate and IMO nice. So who is being unreasonable? I just thought it was a good way to save money!!