How to Say No Gifts on Invitation: Tactful Etiquette Tips

Last Updated on November 13, 2023 by Kimberlee Johnson

Planning a special event can be fun, but sometimes, you might want to keep it simple and meaningful.

I remember when it was my birthday, and I decided to ask my friends and family not to bring gifts. It was a tough choice, but I wanted to focus on spending time with them instead.

So, how to say no gifts on invitation? Today, I’ll share some funny and polite wordings you can put on the invitation and make sure everyone has a great time.

Table of Contents

15 Polite Things To Say “No Gifts” On Invitation

All we need is your presence, no presents, please.
Just bring yourselves and your appetites; no gifts are required.
Your presence is the best gift we could receive.
Join us without gifts; your company is a gift in itself.
No need for presents, your attendance is all we desire.
Please, no gifts—only your warm smiles are needed.
Let’s celebrate together without the hassle of gifts.
Gifts are not necessary; your friendship is the real treasure.
Share this special day with us, and that’s all we wish for.
We kindly ask for no gifts, just your joyful presence.
Share this day with us, and that’s the greatest gift.
Gifts aside, your friendship is what matters most.
There is no need for gifts; let’s create wonderful memories together.
We have everything we need; your presence is the ultimate gift.
Join us in celebrating without the exchange of presents.

Check out these tips to write “Adults Only” on wedding invitations here.

15 Funny Wordings You Can Say “No Gifts” On Invitation

Please don’t bring gifts; we’re here for the fun, not the presents!
Your “presence” is the ultimate gift we’re excited to unwrap.
No gifts are required; bring your best jokes and stories!
Good wishes are the only currency we accept at this party.
Leave the gift stress at home; laughter [1] and memories are welcome.
Gifts are so last season; we’re all about good times and giggles.
We’ve got more stuff than we can handle—your humor is all we need.
Warning: Excessive gift-bringing may lead to uncontrollable laughter!
We’ve got enough stuff; your hilarious stories are what we need.
Forget the gifts; your presence itself is the greatest present.
Gifts? Nah, we prefer your company and a side of laughter.
Bring your smiles, not the presents; we’ve got abundant laughter.
Save the wrapping paper; we’re after unforgettable moments.
Presents are so yesterday; we’re into timeless memories.
Gifts are overrated; let’s invest in creating hilarious stories.

Is It Acceptable To Put “No Gifts” On An Invitation?

Yes, it’s now perfectly fine to include a “No Gifts” request on your invitation.

In today’s social etiquette, it’s widely recognized that people have various reasons for preferring the presence of loved ones over presents.

Whether it’s to simplify celebrations, reduce environmental impact, or emphasize the importance of genuine connections, communicating your desire for no gifts is acceptable and considerate.

“In the currency of memories, the presence is worth a fortune.”
– Howkapow Gift Site

However, it’s crucial to convey this message with politeness and gratitude, emphasizing that the presence of friends and family is the most cherished gift.

What Is Proper Etiquette When An Invitation States No Gifts?

Proper etiquette dictates that when an invitation explicitly states “No Gifts,” it is polite to honor the host’s request and refrain from bringing a gift.

The host has a specific reason for making this request, whether to keep the event simple, reduce the burden on guests, or emphasize the importance of their presence.

Bringing a gift in such cases can be seen as impolite and disregarding the host’s wishes.

Instead, you can express your well-wishes, share in the celebration, and focus on enjoying the company of the host and other guests, which aligns with the gracious spirit of the event.

How Can You Ask For Experience Rather Than Gifts?

1. Create A Wishlist Of Experience Gifts

Make it hassle-free for your guests by sharing a list of experience gift ideas.

Whether it’s a cooking class, a spa day, or concert tickets, having options simplifies the process for your loved ones. But how can you ask for gift cards on an invitation?

2. Have A Heart-to-Heart Talk

Instead of just printing “No Gifts” on the invitation, talk with close friends and family.

Explain your preference for experiences and why they hold more meaning for you than physical items.

3. Offer Clear Gift Guidelines

Provide your guests with clear and practical instructions on how to give experiences.

Suggest options like gift cards to specific venues or experiences, contributions to an experienced fund, or even purchasing memberships to clubs or organizations related to your interests.

4. Share The Excitement

Express your genuine enthusiasm for the upcoming experiences. Let your guests know how eager you are to create lasting memories together.

“Love is always bestowed as a gift – freely, willingly and without expectation. We don’t love to be loved; we love to love.”
– Leo Buscaglia, American Author, and Motivational Speaker

By sharing your excitement, you convey that these experiences hold value for you, far beyond material possessions.

Read: Best Invitation Wordings If You Want Guests To Pay For Their Meal

FAQs

Is it impolite to send a gift if the invitation states that no gifts are allowed?

Yes, it can be considered impolite to send a gift when the invitation explicitly states “no gifts.”

The best approach is to respect the host’s wishes and refrain from bringing a gift, as they have clarified their preference on the invitation.

Why are experiences preferred over gifts?

Experiences are preferred because they offer unforgettable moments, break from routine, require no storage, provide happiness [2], and create enduring memories.

Unlike material gifts, experiences enrich our lives and leave a lasting impact, making them a cherished choice for many.

In A Nutshell

When saying “no gifts” on an invitation, you must convey your message with clarity and consideration.

Drawing from my experience, I’ve learned that politeness and respect should guide our actions.

Firstly, it’s acceptable to put “No Gifts” on an invitation, as modern etiquette recognizes the diverse reasons behind such requests.

Secondly, when you receive an invitation with this request, proper etiquette dictates that you honor the host’s wishes and refrain from bringing a gift.

Doing otherwise may be seen as impolite and dismissive of their intentions.

Ultimately, the emphasis should be on sharing moments, building memories, and valuing the presence of loved ones over material gifts.

References:

https://www.va.gov/WHOLEHEALTHLIBRARY/tools/healing-benefits-humor-laughter.asp
https://www.heart.org/en/university-hospitals-harrington-heart-and-vascular/how-happiness-affects-health

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Kimberlee Johnson

Kimberlee Johnson is a preschool teacher and a mom of 3. She puts a lot of thought into gift-buying and gift-giving as she believes that each gift should tell a story. She enjoys scrapbooking and watching the History Channel. Learn more about us here or you can email us [email protected].