Christmas Gifts: Do they have to be of equal value?

by Lynn
(Boston, MA)

Do my Christmas gifts have to be equal in number and worth for my son-in-law and my other daughter, Becca's live-in boyfriend? The boyfriend and Becca are very close, and there is a strong chance they will get married one day. Understandably, I am closer with my son-in-law. Besides, he and my daughter, Emily, have a young child and are more in need of necessities than my daughter, Becca, and her boyfriend. That said, I want to be fair and not slight the boyfriend.

I should let you know, however, that this boyfriend is 10 years older than my daughter, and is very awkward sometimes about accepting what he may feel is too generous a gift (I.e. paying the restaurant bill, etc.).

Thank you for your answer to my little dilemna.

Lynn