"Giusi" wrote

> I don't think it matters where it is being done, it is bad manners. It is
> putting the screws on social acquaintances to get gifts and picking the
> gifts yourself.

It was the way it was done in the 1800's. Kinda stopped around 1900 or so.

>> Again, sorta depends on the background of the folks. With the larger
>> items, it's close family who get them or what you do is dontate a
>> portion of the cost towards an item.
>
> These are people she has never socialized with before. They should not be
> expecting a gift, let alone telling her what to buy.

Anyone going to a housewarming is expected to bring a housewarming gift. It
just depends culturally on what that is.