That is such a great idea for a party. I love the doughnut cake...too cute!!! It really is just about getting together and having fun for birthdays. When my kids are invited to birthday parties, we always make the gift. I get to spend time with my child making purses, necklaces, one time a quilt(she was a special friend of my daughters).
I do like the idea of no gift parties. I know my kids have too much stuff and alot of the family is out of town and just send money and I usually have them put it in savings unless they have something they really want.