I thought i'd get some opinions on this as I'm not sure what the proper etiquette is. We are going to a friends 30th party next weekend. It's fancy dress and everyone is going all-out. Last night we got a group email saying wine is on the house (it's in a hotel) but everything else you have to pay for. Also they are not putting on any food. DH is pretty ****ed off as we are paying nearly $200 for our costumes and it is quite typical of them to never cough up for anything (example; "come over for a BBQ - bring meat, booze and salad!").

What I want to know is should we buy her a pressie as well? As I said we are spending nearly $200 on costumes (our choice but EVERYONE is making a big effort), it's on the Coast so we'll have to get a cab home or stay. Luckily my Dad is over from the UK so we don't have to pay for a babysitter. If it was my party I wouldn't expect anyone to buy me anything as well.

What do you think?