Time to teach relatives the rules of RSVP etiquette
Jeanne Phillips
Dear Abby: I belong to a family that doesn’t respond to RSVPs for weddings or wedding showers. They often arrive late, leave weddings early and sometimes don’t stay to eat at the reception even when it costs $100 a person.
I just spoke with my brother about an upcoming wedding, and he informed me that he and his family “may” decide to extend their camping trip and miss it, even though they had RSVP’d with their meal selections.
My wife was raised to observe the rules of etiquette, something she has passed on to our four children, but my family never received that kind of instruction. I love my siblings and their families. How can I improve the situation without hurting feelings?
Dear Peacemaker: Start by explaining the rules of etiquette to your siblings in a non-confrontational way. For instance, after you send an invitation, call and verify that the recipients plan to attend. If the answer is “maybe,” tell them the meals cost $100 a plate, which is why it’s important to have an accurate head count.
When your brother told you he and his family might extend their camping trip, I hope you responded that you would be taking them off the guest list and hope they’ll have a great time.
Dear Abby: I’m almost 20, in my second year of college, and I have never been in a relationship. Lately it has been really bothering me. I know I’m not alone because a lot of my friends are in a similar situation. I’m just afraid that I’ll end up alone, or if I do find someone, I won’t know how to act. Please help.
Dear Frustrated: Please quit flogging yourself. You’re in college and on a path to success. To obsess about ending up alone is a distraction and a waste of time. Stop being afraid of what “might” happen. Enjoy your college experience. Meet as many people as you can. The more friends you have, the greater your chances of finding what you’re looking for.
As to not knowing how to act when you finally meet someone special, I guarantee that you will know how to act because you WON’T BE ACTING. You will just be yourself, and that will be all you need.