in article , DJS0302 at
ospam wrote on 11/23/03 12:13 AM:

It's not a "reward", it's a thank-you gift.

Miche

But still why do they feel they need to bring a gift? A verbal thank-you is
enough for me or if they want they can be a little more formal and send a
thank-you note.

Somewhere along the line they were taught about "hostess gifts".

If these are elaborate, expensive gifts, I would understand your balking.
But generally, hostess gifts are bottles of wine, or boxes of
chocolates....usually nothing big.

Just smile and graciously accept the gift in the spirit it was given.
If you don't like it or can't use it, re-gift it. Bring it someplace next
time you're invited somewhere.

The ideal hostess gift is something consumable. That way, you don't expect
to see it next time you're there, and whether they consumed it or passed it
along to someone else, you need never know.

If you really are offended by the gifts your friends give you, then next
time, as they are giving it to you (NOT before the event, that's really
tacky!) tell them, nicely, "Oh you really shouldn't have!" and mean it.
Maybe, if you get your point across, they will heed your request next time
and not bring you anything.