oh, birthday presents...

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'Tis the season of summer birthdays...and the same question for me always comes up: what do I buy a ____ year-old ____ (boy, girl)? And how much do I spend? The answer to this question varies wildly (obviously depending on age, gender), and the money question always leaves me stumped. For me, I think the standard birthday gift varies between $15-30, depending on who it is going to, the age, etcetera.

A friend recently relayed that her 2-year old had received a $50 gift certificate for her birthday from a non-family friend. She didn't seem at all phased. I think my internal jaw dropped, however - is that really what people are spending on presents these days? Even for a good friend's child, that seems excessive, no? What do you spend on presents? Any money-type of question is a personal one, I know, but I certainly hate to be the chintzy one! Do tell.

pardon the interruption

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When reader Jennifer asked if I could make an exception and post a question for an upcoming party she's having this weekend, I said yes, given the circumstances...I hope you'll be able to help!

"I am throwing a tea party fundraiser for 40 people next weekend. It is to benefit the family of a little boy who fell from a third story window and sustained a brain injury. For the finale of the tea, I will give each guest some sweet treats - french macarons and petits fours (all donated by the community!) and would like to put them in clear treat bags, but want a unique twist...any ideas of how I could make this more unique, special and fun? My colors for the tea are shades of coral and pink."