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21st birthday-still a big one?

8 replies

Okbutnotgreat · 10/05/2022 10:45

Just that really. We pushed the boat out for 18th birthdays and can’t afford to do the same for 21st coming up. Dd says unless it’s a big amount of cash there’s no point really as doesn’t have any use for keepsake type gifts.

We don’t have lots of spare money right now and whatever we have would just disappear into the coffers, it doesn’t feel right.

So is 21 still a big birthday or just your an adult now, this is what we can do, suck it up?

Have already arranged a family get together to celebrate as there’d be hell to pay if we didn’t but she’s announced that she’s busy with friends that weekend anyway and doesn’t care about seeing family. Am inclined to give her a card……

OP posts:
WineIsMyCarb · 10/05/2022 11:23

I think it's either/or 18th and 21st. If she's had a big 18th, do her a big family meal at home and buy a bottle of fizz. Job done.

AllThingsServeTheBeam · 10/05/2022 11:26

I went to west midlands safari park for my 21st with friends and DP. I was pregnant with my first 😂

BlueSpottedGiraffe · 10/05/2022 11:28

Was either/or for me and DSis, she had a big party for her 18th and a nice present so didn't get much for her 21st whereas I was in a bit of a bad place mentally around my 18th and wasn't bothered about anything so just got the usual bday things but for my 21st my parents got me a diamond necklace and trip to Edinburgh.

If you went all out for her 18th then I certainly don't think you need to for her 21st.

Beamur · 10/05/2022 11:29

I don't think 21 has any real significance any more.

Chaoslatte · 10/05/2022 11:32

It wasn’t big for my circle (I’m late 20s now) - no one had a big party and I’m not aware of people having received big gifts. But most people were at uni and not near their parents.

Summerholidayorcovidagain · 10/05/2022 11:34

My ds will be abroad (army) so likely a family meal when he gets back. Doubt any real gift as he has no house and travels light!!

Okbutnotgreat · 10/05/2022 23:11

Well thank you that’s put my mind at rest, we will celebrate it but not worry about making a big fuss. Save that for when she hits 30!

OP posts:
2pinkginsplease · 10/05/2022 23:18

Beamur · 10/05/2022 11:29

I don't think 21 has any real significance any more.

Really?

18th then 21st is the last of the big hiethdays before the 30th. Our eldest is 21 this year. We can't wait to celebrate it. Another milestone birthday.

When I was 21 it was a bigger celebration than 18. Gast forward a few years and we will be celebrating our eldest child's 21st.

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