To ask how to say it's ok not to bring presents

[LemonDrop22]

Hosting a child's birthday party just before payday (for many monthly paid folks), aware many people will be broke from holidays and cost of school uniforms etc ....

How do I politely/diplomatically tell people they don't need to bring presents on the invitation cards?

How do you phrase it, if you've done it?

I would like a good attendance as I pay for 20 kids whether 20 turn up or not (and obviously would like a nice buzzy party too) , and am worried finances might put people off accepting the invitation.

There is no need for this level of virtue signalling though, people aren't thick.

I've seen this on a few invites recently. The first time I complied and didn't take a present. Everyone else did except one other mum and we both felt really embarrassed.

Since then I've ignored it like everyone else.

I’d write, we want your presence not presents, to help us celebrate Xs birthday

I did it for my kids when they were very little. Their grandparents had gone nuts and we had so much STUFF. Once, my daughter was invited to a party where ‘no gifts’ were specially requested. She drew the birthday girl a picture and the mum said her daughter absolutely loved it. People do feel awkward coming empty handed so you could suggest something like that?

Uugh, missed out on that pun!

Thanks for the suggestions everyone.