To find both giving and receiving presents stressful?

[ImperfectPresents]

As the title says, I find both giving and receiving stressful.

Giving because it's so hard to find the perfect present for everyone considering we're all adults who can afford to buy what we want.

My DSis and I agreed a price limit. We exchanged vouchers for the agreed amount. They went over it, I stuck to it so that was embarrassing and stressful.

I got my DM an family experience voucher because she can buy anything she needs. She asked for a specific item which one of my family got her. So I had no guidelines. I had asked for one specific thing. She got me that but then got me other things too. So she was disappointed (I thought) with the voucher. But then I also had to smile and act appropriately pleased with the presents I received. And I actually was pleased. But I felt so conscious of being watched that I had to over act being pleased and then it felt fake.

Too much pressure. Or am I overthinking it?

Well it sounds like your family make it extra difficult by having high and changing expectations. Annoying to agree a limit then ignore it. DH's family, especially his mum, are very demonstrative and I'm much more reserved so I find it awkward opening presents from them - they expect a huge reaction, so even when I genuinely love a gift I feel I have to over act and it comes across fake.

Your family don’t stick to what’s agreed so I can see why you find it stressful.

Yanbu

Thanks folks! I don't want to even say it to DH because I'm embarrassed!
And it was my DSis who set the limit in the first place!!

My in-laws are much more relaxed and cheerful about the whole thing. Plus I'm only a minor player there so the pressure is off me!

The whole thing is indeed stressful! The only good way I think to do presents is if you have a financial limit and the recipient tells you in advance what they want. Specifically. Preferably with product numbers and shop to buy it from. I try and give suggestions three things that I like in that way so it’s still a surprise which one I get and if it’s sold out there are other choices so people don’t have to trek round lots of branches, or they can use the product info to buy it online. I’m trying to make it easier for others.

@Elieza sounds perfect

We all tell each other what we would like and buy appropriately , stick to limits within reason.

For years my mother would add stuff to bulk out my gifts , things like manicure sets and awful bubble bath now I specify what perfume range I like etc so everything is gratefully received