Shortening your Christmas List

[Christmaschick]

Hi, I'm trying to find the politically correct way to let people know that we have to shorten our Christmas list this year. Don't want to step on toes. Has anyone dealt with this lately?:}

[Christmasstar]

I find the direct approach is the best.

Because of circumstances beyond our control, we find we can not be as extravagant as in past years. However, Christmas will be just as joyful and merry at our home. Please join us for an evening of fun. We request that in lew of gifts you instead give to _________ so that those less fortunate will also be able to enjoy the season!

Or something like that.
Hope this helps.

[made582]

I agree that the direct way is best. Just tell everyone that you are cutting back and only buying for your immediate family members this year.

[luckymumofthree]

We are having to do the same this year, it is going to be hard to folk though

[ryansrs1]

Meantion to people that you have to cut back a bit this christmas (but dont go on and on about it) and that youd would love to be able to get more but cant. People are proberly in the same boat and may even feel relived that your not over spending on them as they wont feel obliged to by an few or expensive gifts back. Apart from children most will understand-buy what you can afford and DONT feel guilty.

Cheers

J

[Minta]

We did something similar for this year. We opted not to BUY a gift for DH's siblings and my best friend. We informed them last month that we will not be buying them gifts as we will be sending much needed supplies to soldiers instead. We will buy for the neices but that's it. Got a positive response from DH's brother but got no response from the rest. Oh well if they want to buy us something then that is on them.

We still give them something small like baksets filled with homemade cakes, bread and fudge and home made ornaments from the kids.

Just be direct and explain to them that you will be buying for them. If they do not understand that is on them.

[Christmaschick]

Thanks everyone. Very good ideas!cheesy