I think balancing different upbringings/ expectations is very hard – we’ve had to navigate that too. In the end, I do all the work and my husband grinches out. Not sure I’m happy with that solution, but anything else would have the kids missing out. They get a small stocking of trinket type gifts from Santa, a small ($20 limit) gift from each sibling, and a bigger gift from Mum and Dad.

The most important thing is always to do what works best for your family and it is always best to not worry about what other people think or say. Everyone can and does have an opinion but the only one that needs to be listened to is that of the individual. Do Christmas the way it bring joy!

My kids dont often get spoilt throughout the year, so for christmas, to see the excitement on their face is completely worth everything for me as they are only young once! We fill the tree, but we dont go overboard and spend heaps of money. We follow the trend of something to read, something to wear, something they need and a few things they want!

Everyone is indeed so very different when it comes to gift giving at Christmas, We keep Christmas gift giving low key and do not go overboard with spending. We go for a main gift and a stocking with treats. We have a budget for Christmas and we stick to it too.

My husband and I sound similar. Although he is from a German background, so their Christmas was big! Some gifts were given Christmas Eve, with a Santa visit adding an additional gift, a stocking to open the next morning and then more gifts!
My family had Christmas presents under the tree and that was it, no stockings.
We are giving our kids stockings and then one gift on Christmas Eve, then the rest on Christmas Day. That way 2 traditions are being followed.
Good luck!