Show restraint with caustic customers

DEAR MISS MANNERS: My husband and I own and operate a small antique and vintage store in our neighborhood.

Our shop is beautifully curated; items are well displayed, clean and free of defects — i.e., we are not a secondhand store.

When two ladies were in the store, Lady No. 1 was purchasing four vintage glasses and I commented on her excellent choice. Lady No. 2 asked me, “Can we get a discount?” I offered 10 percent, which is standard practice. Lady No. 2 said, in a pseudo-hushed tone, “Well, I suppose that is better than nothing,” and called our prices “very expensive.”

I replied that, in my opinion, she would be hardpressed to find these at a cheaper price, to which she replied, “Well, I collect this type of glass.” I had nothing nice to say back, so, following my parents’ sage advice, I said nothing further.

We do not make any money until the sizable rent, utilities and supplier costs are paid.

We purchased most of our inventory many years ago, as we planned to open this shop in our retirement, so our prices are incredibly competitive. These glasses were $10 each, not $100, or anywhere in between.

I, of course, thanked them and wished them both a good day, but I was tempted to chase Lady No. 2 down the street and give her some feedback. I wonder if there might be an acceptable retort if a similar future encounter occurs.

GENTLE READER: It will, and Miss Manners hopes you will continue to restrain yourself.

DEAR MISS MANNERS: I have long wondered about the wedding custom of guests applauding after the officiant says the words, “I now pronounce you ______.” Is the marriage ceremony a performance that requires guests to clap?

I have been bothered by this as much as by the intricately choreographed dance performed by the adorable couple.

This seems to me to disrupt the atmosphere of a sweet, loving occasion.

I would appreciate your view.

GENTLE READER: They started as those sweet, loving occasions were evolving into theatrical productions: fanciful bio-epics about the couple, instead of serious religious or civic rituals.

Aside from inflicting amateur theatrics on a captive audience, this approach sacrifices an important emotion. Yes, Miss Manners recognizes the expression of joy and congratulations that the applause is supposed to signify. But there is plenty of room for that to be expressed at the reception.

Submit your etiquette questions to Miss Manners at dearmissmanners@gmail. com.