Have you ever heard of a birthday party where the guests are expected to pay for their own meal and bring a present, or is it just that I have lack of experience living in this world?

A friend is having a party for her daughter. Daughter is turning 7 and the party is in a historic tavern. She texted invites and said the guests are expected to pay cash for their meals and they’ll provide the cake. Also, they’re buying a smart TV for the girl’s room so if you want to chip in for that, you can or you can bring another kind of gift.

Does this seem ballsy to you? I always thought that the hostess provides whatever the food is (whether the party is in a restaurant, a catering facility or in their house) and the guests bring a gift.