I have been invited to join a "Gifting Club". Should I do this?
149457
No way.  These are a scam.  The FTC (Federal Trade Commission) has some pretty bad things to say about "gifting clubs" (see link below) and I have a friend who was taken for $10,000 - she was told she could make her money back ten times over, but she ended up with nothing.  It's a big (illegal) pyramid scheme.
868544
I have a different twist on the first answer. \n\nWe play the gift exchange at our work Christmas party and have a $10 limit. In your situation being close friends you could always up the dollar amount and possibly have a theme. For example, have a Christmas quote and everyone has to buy something that relates to the quote.\n\nEveryone then randomly picks a number (1-15). The first person picks a  gift from the table. The second person also chooses a gift from the table and then can either keep theirs or switch it for number 1's gift. The third person can switch theirs for either number 1 or number 2's gift and so on. All gifts remain unopened until all 15 people have a gift. \n\nIt's fun to see what gifts are the most popular simply going by their size and shape and then opening it to see what it really is.
990361
Try buying a less expensive gift off the registry. That way it is thoughtful, useful and sensible. You can find out where they are registered by asking around to other guests you know who may be closer to her. Generally I think $50.00 is a minimum gift but it is based on your conscience and ability really.
201793
Your best bet would be to know someone who is a member at that course. They should be able to let you play as a guest of theirs. Or, you could do what we did one time, bribe the starter. Slip him $50 or $100 and most of the time he will "look the other way".
356983
Did they register somewhere?  If so, pick out something from their registry.  That way you know you are getting them something will want/need.  \n\nI have given things like: flannel sheets, a bottle of champagne and a pair of candles, gift certificates.
474504
Why are you thinking of joining up. Make sure and pick a winner! LOL!
2054
No Way !!    Family and Friends will give you one gift and say ---"Here is your Birthday AND Christmas Gift" --  You are getting ripped of 50% of your gift getting !!!
327078
i think the way you are going about it is fine. \nit's rude to just state it in the invitations, much better to spread it by word-of-mouth.\ni would think that people would rather give money instead of buying you something that you'll never use.
545661
I would think that it isn't expected by any means but if you like her or if it is just 'you' to give a gift then feel free...but I wouldn't go overboard or she might be uncomfortable with it.  New babies are always a good reason to give gifts and unlike birthdays that come every year they only come once in a while (for most people anyway), so they are kind of a different situation.
736432
I would send out the invites, but you probably wont' be as much RSVP's as you would like sinces its such short notice.  I would just send them out and hope for the best.  Remember even the first set you sent out, a lot of people are going to come who didn't RSVP so be prepared for that.
273622
it depends on how many people are coming! if its a small group, then they will most likely expect you to open them. if there are 30+ people, they might cut you some slack.\nI went to a bridal shower where the bride didnt open her gifts, and nobody really cared. she wrote thank you notes expressing her excitement, so it was fine.\nHave lots of games to keep people busy (or suggest that to the hosts) and by the time they are done, everyone will be ready to go home rather than watch you open presents.
789161
How rude......you don't return gifts. If you really don't like the gift & what it stands for, put it away and only bring it out when the gift giver visits. \n\nOr you could re-gift it to someone else.....Christmas is coming.
702052
How about a nice experience gift like this http://www.giftweblog.com/2006/10/07/experience-the-ultimate-gift/
696082
accept items of interest for resale. sort of a thrift store operation. there is nothing like getting something for your donation. you might can get a location donated.
649207
Of course! The hostess must think alot of you to invite you.\nHelp make her gathering special by showing up, and enjoy meeting new people!
1147108
just now I have send an Invitation..\n\nhttp://www.orkut.com/Home.aspx?xid=9959370504440871414
890383
Yes, a small gift or card is appropriate. \n\nThe sponsor has already traveled far with the neophyte and will continue with him or her on their journey of faith.\n\nWith love in Christ.