Hi Bald Man-
I have an issue with my son. He recently got engaged and is 35. I told him that I would try to give him $15000 as a wedding gift. He and his fiancé were thrilled. However, I recently had a reduction in pay due to a job change and I can’t afford to give that much. I let him know that the gift would likely need to be halved, and he was really angry, telling me he was relying on that money for a home downpayment.
I feel like he should be happy with whatever I can manage. My friends all agree that his reaction was over the top. I am single and trying to retire soon so giving that money would be tough. Should I cave, of stick to my guns?
Sincerely,
Delayed Retirement Pending
Hi Delayed Retirement Pending
I am making an assumption that you handled this conversation with tact and told your son the reasons behind your change of heart and wallet. I’m sure it was difficult for your son to hear that he will be getting less than he expected as a gift, but really he is just being an entitled little bitch. $7500 is still a lot of money for a wedding gift, and he should be thankful and understanding.
Definitely don’t cave on this one. I would let him know that you think his reaction was immature, and that he should try and understand your financial position a bit better. Maybe a little time has allowed him to reflect on his shitty attitude. If so, time to move on with life. If not, then I would consider cutting the gift in half again.
Sincerely,
Bald Man
Bald Advice 