vtmomof2 responded August 4, 2008 at 3:07PM

  Life is crazy but wonderful.

I think either way works, but I agree if you open it later that does require a thank you note. Plus I like watching people open the present I gave them. I went to a grown up party where they did this, and I really wanted to see them open my present.

  Yummy_Mommy responded August 4, 2008 at 3:32PM

  

Well, for us I try not to focus our parties around the gifts. It's all about the sugar! LOL. So we open them later and write Thank Yous, if we open them while our guests are there or not.

  dustbunny responded August 5, 2008 at 3:01PM

  dishing the dirt, cleaning the chaos

yeah, presents take up too much effort & nobody watches...then I forget. I like the after party peacefull opening ceremony

  benbaby responded August 10, 2008 at 11:21PM

  Goofing around with my babies - Big and Lil

I also agree with opening presents after the ceremony. We don't have to feel bad if the birthday boy/girl doesn't like our gift.

  Simplyme responded September 16, 2008 at 7:16AM

  

My kids are really good about looking or asking who a present is from before opening it and maybe that is why I prefer opening while everyone is there. That way the kids can give out hugs and thank you's in person.