Wanting to save money but dealing with obligation

I’m on a frugality journey and really trying to tighten up my spending. Just finished writing up a budget for the month, and I am reminded of how many obligation purchases that I’m expected to make and it’s driving me insane. My husband and I are a double income no kid household. We do have three cats and two dogs and their care is not cheap but I’m okay with that.

The real trouble is that I have a large family. He has a smaller family, but total we have 12 nieces and nephews plus a plethora of cousins, grandparents, aunts and uncles, etc. We are constantly inundated with the obligation of buying birthday gifts, Christmas presents, mothers / Father’s Day gifts, graduations gifts, baby shower gifts, wedding gifts, etc.

We got married at the courthouse, never had a registry of any sort, and we don’t have kids, so we feel like we just give and give but don’t really get anything in return. Which again is fine, but it all ADDS UP, and because we don’t require these things I guess I shouldn’t feel so bad to not contribute lol. Most months there are several birthdays to buy for, plus any other special occasions or holidays thrown in.

So I’m looking for ideas on how to step away from the constant barrage of expectation when it comes to parties, gifts, etc. My mom in particular will throw a fit, but it’s just too much STUFF.

What are some cheap ideas for gifts? I’ve started to pivot and take my nieces / nephews out to the park or to a cheap lunch for their birthdays. A couple of them like to thrift. One nephew I got a magazine subscription for, that he really liked. For Christmas I’m thinking of just getting them some candy or something? I got my mom flowers for Mother’s Day and my dad some of his favorite candies. And I’m tempted to just forego the random parties and events throughout the year and just focus on the big holidays with my family.

Anyway, what are some good, affordable gift ideas for all ages?