Group Gift Exchanges
 

In general, how do you feel about participating in them?
I am talking about non-family groups such as work, church, organizations, etc.

Depends. I think white elephant exchanges can be a lot of fun, if well run with rules that make sense and participants who abide by them. But that type of exchange is more about enjoying a fun activity together versus receiving a gift. However, if someone is organizing a group exchange where I feel uncomfortable, I simply opt out.

At quilt guild I don't mind. All gift are quilt related. At work, NO. I am not a fashionista, can't wear jewelry or perfumes at work. So I would end up with another coffee mug. I do have quite a collection in the attic.

I'm in a group of 25 at a small guild. at Christmas and birthday, we all give the same gift. This year, my gift is emb. mirror covers. everyone buys or makes 25 of the same thing and hands them out. These suckers are taking 2 hrs each to make. i'm thinking of giving only to my good friends. there are abour 15 of these people I only see at the Christmas party. i'm wondering if I should make so many of these mirrors. the thread keeps breaking and is aggravating to make. Some of the people come and get gifts, but don't bring gifts. I don not like that. so what can I make for these people? I'm not to crazy to give 25 of these hard made gifts to people I don't know well.

Are you able to opt out of the exchange? Don't bring anything - don't take anything?

If you want to give something to the people you really care for - do it privately at a non-quild event.

I think the people that come to "exchanges" and only take are abominable.

In general I'm not crazy about them because everyone has different taste. It's a nice idea, especially at Christmas etc, but I usually end up donating whatever I got to charity. So it's not all bad but not my favorite thing to do :)

gag me with a spoon...

I used to participate, but not anymore. It seemed as though I got things I did not care for. I'd rather save my $$ for something meaningful to me.

I'd much prefer not to participate.

I would rather not participate, either.