Do you buy gifts for adult birthday parties?

[thecolourmauve]

I’ve been invited to a colleague’s birthday party in a couple of weeks time. I’ve known her for about three years and we’re friends but not close friends. She’s having a barbecue in the garden so it’s all fairly informal.

I’m not sure what to do about presents - should I buy her a little something and a card as well, or is it acceptable to bring a bottle and leave it at that?

It’s been so long since I’ve socialised that I’ve forgotten what’s expected!

We’re all in our early 40s in case that’s relevant.

I think you do need to give a gift

I would probably take at least a bottle, flowers or chocolates but probably not a bottle as most people would take that to a BBQ anyway

You know her well enough to be going to her house

A bottle of champagne if she drinks. Nice flowers or candle if she doesn’t.