Mum Criticised for Expecting Guests to Spend More than $150 on Daughter’s Birthday Present

How much is the going rate for kids’ birthday party pressies these days? $20? $25? $30 perhaps? 

According to this mum, we’re way off! Prepare to take out a second mortgage after hearing just how much this mum expects guests to spend on her 12-year-old daughter’s birthday present.

In my eight years of being a mum, I’ve bought my fair share of gifts for other people’s kids. I was always under the impression $20-25 is acceptable. Perhaps a little more if you happen to like the kid. Or the kid’s mum.

How much do you spend on birthday gifts for other kids?

But, according to a recent Facebook post, $20 is not nearly enough. In fact, if you suggest coming to a party with a $25 present, your kid will get uninvited.

For real. You see, this is EXACTLY what happened to a very confused mum who shared her horrifying story in a private Facebook group.

What the hell just happened?

So, let us break it down for you. After RSVPing yes for her daughter, Confused Mum asked for suggestions for birthday gifts. The birthday girl’s mum (who will from now on be referred to as Goldmark Mum) sent a list of jewellery items (from Goldmark), all around $150 to $200. Yes, $200. For a 12-year-old.

But it gets much worse. Because Confused Mum admits she can’t afford that. So Goldmark Mum counters with a $50 voucher. Sorry, still too much. The birthday gift bargaining continues with Confused Mum’s final offer of some stationery.

No invite for you!

And Goldmark Mum’s reply? She TAKES BACK the invite!

The whole incident left the poor mother embarrassed and worried that she was in the wrong. So, she did what all mums do – she posted the matter on Facebook. And, as expected, the post went viral with most mums agreeing that Goldmark Mum is expecting WAY too much!

“I don’t even spend that much on my own kids!” one commenter wrote.

“Wow WTF. $20-$30 max I’d say,” another added.

So, what’s the verdict ladies and gents? How much do you spend on birthday presents for other people’s kids?

Looking for more over-the-top birthday present stories? Check out why this 5 Year-Old Was Billed for Not Turning Up at Birthday Party.