| Subject | Date Asked |
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| Dr.-Patient good manners | 11/21/2009 |
Q: This may be unusual, but here it is:My chiropractor, who is younger than I, said "If I were an OLDER ...
A: I have availed myself of the expertise of chiropractors for many years. It is no secret that as we ...
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| Various Questions | 11/17/2009 |
Q: I have been thinking of several etiquette dilemmas recently and was wondering if you could please ...
A: It is indeed rude to sip whilst chewing. Try it in the mirror sometime and you'll soon see why. In ...
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| NEW IMMIGRANT FIRST DAY AT OFFICE IN CANADA | 11/4/2009 |
Q: My name is Sarah and i've just moved from Pakistan to Toronto. i got a job in downtown and will ...
A: I know how difficult that alone was in addition to speaking of your situation. My advice is to ...
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| Retirement Dinner | 10/28/2009 |
Q: I have been invited to a small retirement dinner for a colleague that is being held at another ...
A: You are implying that because the party is being catered and the host is not slaving over a hot ...
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| who pays for the movie? | 10/27/2009 |
Q: We have a 12.5 yr. old daughter who is an only child. We would like to know when we invite a friend ...
A: You are 100% correct. I can't imagine what these other parents are thinking. This is a perfect time ...
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| 50th Anniversary "Dutch Treat" Local Resturant | 10/25/2009 |
Q: Is it etiquette to invite family and close friends to a 50th Anniversary with notation on invitation ...
A: No, it is not proper etiquette to send out an invitation stating 'Dutch Treat'. Such invitations are ...
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| Teapot gift | 10/23/2009 |
Q: Jay, since you were so wonderful with my question about friends inviting me out for a 40th birthday ...
A: You are not asking too many questions. That is what I do - answer questions, so feel free. Yes, ...
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| Teapot gift | 10/23/2009 |
Q: Jay, since you were so wonderful with my question about friends inviting me out for a 40th birthday ...
A: This is kind of humorous really. By all means, phone the mother and explain the situation. Simply ...
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| acknowledging birthday cards | 10/23/2009 |
Q: Is it necesisary to acknowledge greeting cards ?
A: Although it would not be appropriate to acknowledge a card with a note (unless it had a nice fat ...
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| News stories about President Obama | 10/22/2009 |
Q: It is appreciated. I searched and found your answer with regard to speaking TO the President; ...
A: Boyd, Thanks or asking this good question. News anchors are not arbiters of proper etiquette or ...
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| Party invite | 10/22/2009 |
Q: My husband and I were recently invited to a friend's 40th birthday party. The husband sent out the ...
A: I agree with you completely about this whole dynamic being 'a bit tacky'. Proper etiquette dictates ...
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| address married couple | 10/16/2009 |
Q: I was trained by the old Emily Post system that when addressing an envelope for a married couple if ...
A: There is a bit of a grey area here. The 'new' protocol as you put it, follows the old Mr and Mrs ...
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| Large amount of funeral thank you's | 10/16/2009 |
Q: My friend recently lost her husband and has had an overwhelming show of support. So much so, that ...
A: I would avoid sending email thank you notes. Protocol does suggest a thank you note for flowers, ...
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| Handshakes - remain seated or stand? | 10/12/2009 |
Q: I'm a secretary in a very small office and my desk sits right by the entrance to our suite. ...
A: Dinner tables and business offices are two different spaces. In business, it is proper that you ...
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| Barmitzvah invitation etiquette | 10/7/2009 |
Q: My boyrfriend recently received an invitation to a bar mitzvah that did not include a guest even ...
A: It is absolutely appropriate for your boyfriend to accept the invitation and attend the event alone. ...
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| Gift buying | 10/5/2009 |
Q: My husband and I were invited to an engagement party, to which we cannot attend. Should we buy a ...
A: The decision to buy a gift is completely yours. People do buy gifts for engagement parties. Keep in ...
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| We have a friend moving in... | 10/2/2009 |
Q: A friend of ours (mine & my fiance's) is in a tough spot right now and needs a new place to move ...
A: This may help initially. Be sure to show the new tenant how to operate the washer and dryer, shower ...
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| Gift Receiving Etiquette | 9/30/2009 |
Q: is not opening a birthday gift a slap in the face. My husband says thank you but does not open his ...
A: I am a little confused by this question. Does he not open them right away or does he never open ...
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| Bar/Bat Mitzvah invitation for Twins | 9/29/2009 |
Q: I have boy/girl twins who will share a Bar/Bat Mitzvah. The invitations will have both of their ...
A: Send the invitations as you suggest. People will give a gift if they so choose to either or both of ...
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| Gifts | 9/27/2009 |
Q: I have a problem, and it may sound petty, but to me it is not. My husband and I give gifts to ...
A: I have really never heard of this behavior before. It is very odd indeed and I can certainly ...
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| Money for a Honeymoon | 9/24/2009 |
Q: My grandson is getting married. The couple have requested money for a Honeymoon and no gifts. I do ...
A: You may not have heard of this before. As long as it does not appear on their wedding invitation, ...
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| wording for paper | 9/21/2009 |
Q: In placing the newspaper announcement for my parent's 50th wedding anniversary. How do we word it, ...
A: I apologize for the tardy response, but our internet connection has been dodgy lately. At any rate, ...
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| House Warming Party | 9/17/2009 |
Q: I have a three part question in a sense. My husband and I just bought our first home with a generous ...
A: I advise that you make up the list of people you want to invite to the party. Send them invitations. ...
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| Past Mayors | 9/10/2009 |
Q: I have to introduce one of our past Mayors and I am not sure how to introduce him. He just left the ...
A: In this case the choice is yours, but here are the two choices. The Honorable WW Herenton or Dr. WW ...
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| Proper request for family visit duration | 9/9/2009 |
Q: Jay, My mother contacted me and wants to visit for Thanksgiving. I happen to be off that week, so I ...
A: Your mother is out of line. It is your house and you are the host. You call the shots which includes ...
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| Death of a friend- far away | 9/2/2009 |
Q: One of my best friends passed away suddenly and very unexpectedly a couple of days ago. He lived in ...
A: Do you have any contact information for any of his other friends or family? You will need to obtain ...
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| death of newlywed | 8/28/2009 |
Q: A friend's niece was married about 2 months ago and the newlywed husband died suddenly of a heart ...
A: First of all, my condolences to your family. What a terrible tragedy to endure. Condolences and ...
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| Graduation announcements | 8/26/2009 |
Q: I am very close from graduating from an online based college. After becoming a mom and wife ...
A: It is absolutely appropriate to send out announcements. Be clear what you have accomplished and ...
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| mother in law | 8/24/2009 |
Q: My question is regarding my mother in law. Our relationship has been rocky since this past ...
A: Holy mackerel! I have never heard of such a thing, and thank you for not insisting on this tale be ...
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| Talking and Conversations during a family dinner | 8/21/2009 |
Q: I heard that during dinner time,you shouldn't talk hence have conversations because it's bad table ...
A: Dinner is a time when families and friends should have good conversations. Arguing should be avoided ...
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| birthdays | 8/18/2009 |
Q: I know someone who I see only once a week for a few hours when I work part-time at her store. We are ...
A: Score keeping is a dangerous dynamic when it comes to relationships of any kind. If you want to give ...
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| Water glass | 8/17/2009 |
Q: I was dining at a french restaurant the other night and the waiter kept moving my water glass to ...
A: The answer depends on where you move your water glass to begin with. If it is in his way, he should ...
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| Shower party gifts | 8/10/2009 |
Q: When you play games at a Baby or Bridal shower, who should the prizes go to? Should they go to the ...
A: In my opinion, the prize goes to the winner of the contest. Otherwise, it wouldn't be a contest as ...
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| Hello | 8/9/2009 |
Q: I'm having my 13th birthday soon and I want to invite my friends in MY AGE GROUP. BUT,my parents ...
A: You need to have an honest discussion with your mother about this. She and your father are most ...
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| etiquette for addressing envelopes | 8/8/2009 |
Q: How does one address an envelope when the husband is a physician and the wife is a Pastor? Would ...
A: Traditionally it would be correct to list them as Dr. John Carpenter and The Reverend Angela ...
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| grandshild birthday party of divorced grandparents | 8/7/2009 |
Q: Could you please provide the proper etiquette for divorced grandparents to attend their grandchild's ...
A: The answer depends on the age of the child, the current relationship between the two 'grandparents', ...
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| borrowed book returned damaged | 8/5/2009 |
Q: I lent my $200 Biology book to my sister-in-law. She returned it with water damage on a lot of the ...
A: The old expression goes, "No sense in crying over spilt milk." However, in this case, you might want ...
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| daughters baby shower | 7/31/2009 |
Q: My daughters fiances mother wants to have a baby shower for her. She asked if she can have it in my ...
A: Your new soon-to-be in law is nuts. I wouldn't even call it 'taking advantage' - just nuts. She is ...
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| Returning a gift | 7/29/2009 |
Q: My sister-in-law is well off but likes to give knockoff gifts (although I felt insulated but to keep ...
A: Be grateful for the gifts. Continue to regift them if necessary. Teach your daughter to be thankful ...
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| Names | 7/28/2009 |
Q: for a dual retirement luncheon/ceremony, how are the names listed? in honor of Mr and Mrs John ...
A: With the little information I have, I am going to assume that both people are are of equal status as ...
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| Visitor etiquette - bedroom use | 7/27/2009 |
Q: Is it reasonable to ask a child (21 yrs old) to allow a visitor to use their bedroom for one night ...
A: If the child is living at his parents' house, it is reasonable to inform the child that their ...
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| thank you for surprise party | 7/26/2009 |
Q: What is the protocol for thanking the guests that attended a surprise party? Is it required to send ...
A: Thank you notes for surprise parties would be the same as any other party. If they give you a gift, ...
|
| proper eticate | 7/22/2009 |
Q: IS IT OK TO SEND FLOWERS ON AN ANNIVERSARY IF ONE OF THE PARTNERS HAS RECENTLY DIED
A: There is no 'rule' about this and so I recommend common sense. It all depends on the couple, but I ...
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| wedding protocol | 7/21/2009 |
Q: Is it considered correct etiquette to state in a shower invitation that they kindly request gifts ...
A: This is just getting better and better. Perhaps guest appearances on the show might be in order ...
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| Wedding Gift Thank Yous | 7/21/2009 |
Q: I have not been thanked for a wedding gift given to my niece and her husband. Since it was ...
A: The issue at hand here really is one of respect and gratitude. One can never be too old to learn ...
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| wedding protocol | 7/21/2009 |
Q: Is it considered correct etiquette to state in a shower invitation that they kindly request gifts ...
A: And in the words of the irreverent chef, Gordon Ramsay, "Oh dear, oh dear!" You win some sort of ...
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| Men wearing hats indoors | 7/19/2009 |
Q: Is there any etiquette regarding chewing gum in public? ANSWER: Dear Barbara, Thanks for asking ...
A: This has not changed. It all goes back to the old days when men actually wore helmets. Helmets were ...
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| shower protocol | 7/17/2009 |
Q: Is it considered correct etiquette to state in a shower invitation that they kindly request gifts ...
A: I never saw the first email. At any rate, as I have stated many times before, one does not mention ...
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| When should I pick up the bill? | 7/16/2009 |
Q: I'm in a bit of a complicated situation- I just started dating a 27 year-old guy. I'm 21 and in ...
A: First of all, it makes no difference about gender. Second, it makes no difference about being ...
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| Ignored birthday greeting | 7/13/2009 |
Q: I like this colleague of mine (not in a romantic way but in a civil working relationship sort of ...
A: You are over reacting - big time. "Deeply saddened" is pretty dramatic for such a minor event. ...
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| HOUSEWARMING PARTY | 7/10/2009 |
Q: i WOULD LIKE TO HOST A HOUSEWARMING FOR MY DAUGHTER WHO IS PURCHASING HER FIRST HOME AT 26 YEARS ...
A: As I have said before, the mention of gifts on an invitation is verboten. The only way to handle ...
|
| passengers | 7/8/2009 |
Q: I have a four door car and I want to know if two men and one woman are the passengers where should ...
A: In most cases, I tend to invite the woman to sit up front. In a formal situation the 'best seat' is ...
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| Boyfriend's Birthday Dinner | 6/30/2009 |
Q: My boyfriend of four months has asked me out for dinner with his family for his birthday. As far as ...
A: If your boyfriend invited you out to dinner, he must pay. Do not even offer. What you might do which ...
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| historical etiquette | 6/26/2009 |
Q: I am setting a historical 1859 table to celebrate my states sesquicentennial. I am not clear as to ...
A: That puts things at around 1859. Although not scarce, paper would not likely have been used for the ...
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| house warming party request | 6/22/2009 |
Q: I would like to have a house warming party, where guests are not to bring house warming presents but ...
A: I must tell you that I have answered upwards of 600 questions on this site and this is far and away ...
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| Thanking someone for a check &/or money | 6/19/2009 |
Q: What is the proper wording to use in thanking someone who has sent a check or cash as a wedding ...
A: You are definitely on the right track. A hand written note thanking them for the money - if it's ...
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| invitations | 6/16/2009 |
Q: I am hosting a Company birthday party and require assistance with wording on the invitation. This ...
A: If this is going out as an office email, I cannot imagine why people would ask their families to ...
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| invitations | 6/16/2009 |
Q: I am hosting a Company birthday party and require assistance with wording on the invitation. This ...
A: It isn't the wording of the invitation that is the issue here. It's the name on the envelope. If you ...
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| Fronting money for friends to do errands | 6/16/2009 |
Q: Occasionally I ask friends to run errands for me. They usually get paid for doing such errands. On ...
A: As simple or as complicated as you want to make this, you have participated as an enabler to some ...
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| Opening rival business | 6/15/2009 |
Q: I am a Sign Language Interpreter. I work for a company that handles both video relay (call center) ...
A: No matter what, your boss will likely feel threatened. Or he won't, depending upon his basic ...
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| How to address someone in a letter | 6/8/2009 |
Q: I have to write to a British Ambassador abroad refusing an invitation to a Reception. How do I ...
A: I assume that as you are from the UK that abroad means outside the UK. To quote Robert Hickey's ...
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| Husbands 50th birthday | 6/2/2009 |
Q: I am having a surprise 50th party for my husband. Catered in food and drinks are supplied. People ...
A: There really is no way to include the wish for cash on an invitation. The way to spread the word ...
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| Crying baby(ies) in (my) doctor's office | 6/1/2009 |
Q: I work for an group of OBGYN doctors so we have lots and lots of babies in the waiting room. More ...
A: You do have a problem - a big one. There is no sign or polite way to ask the parents to leave the ...
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| Clique-y gatherings | 5/31/2009 |
Q: Remer, These are two questions folded into one. I occasionally find myself in an environment where ...
A: Your honesty is very helpful. In the first case, you are close. Perhaps something along the lines ...
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| Bar Mitzvah Gift | 5/29/2009 |
Q: I am attending my first Bar Mitzvah this coming August - 13yr old boy - what would you recommend as ...
A: Bar Mitzvahs are important religious celebrations. The traditional gift for the boy is a fountain ...
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| etiquette on vacation invitation | 5/26/2009 |
Q: We have a girls trip planned that one of the girls boyfriend pays for. This year my boyfriend wants ...
A: That is an entirely different question and I am sorry I didn't get it at first. The real question ...
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| etiquette on vacation invitation | 5/26/2009 |
Q: We have a girls trip planned that one of the girls boyfriend pays for. This year my boyfriend wants ...
A: A girls' trip is not a girls' trip if guys come along. I have no idea why your boyfriend would want ...
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| Following a Hostess in a Restaurant | 5/24/2009 |
Q: I wanted to ask a follow-up question but it said the expert who had answered my original question ...
A: I have not seen the original question; however, Ms. Lett is an experienced expert in etiquette. We ...
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| Family Funeral-who comes? Ex husband or boyfriend? | 5/22/2009 |
Q: My stepmother passed away. My boyfriend of 6 months has never met my father or stepmother. I was ...
A: This is a family affair. Your ex husband takes precedence over your current boyfriend in this case. ...
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| Black Tie Fundraiser | 5/20/2009 |
Q: A good friend of my husband has invited us to attend a black tie dinner this weekend, which is a ...
A: What a nice invitation. You are under no obligation to make a donation or to bid on any of the ...
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| dinner etiquette | 5/19/2009 |
Q: My sister-in-law insists that nobody at the table eat before everyone is seated - everyone but her ...
A: Your sister in law makes a good point. She misses the mark by a mile by not sitting down before the ...
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| baby gift from brother's ex-wife | 5/19/2009 |
Q: About a year ago, my brother found out that his wife of 7 years was cheating on him. After about 6 ...
A: It definitely falls outside of the strict etiquette realm, but here is my take. As I see it you have ...
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| birthday party | 5/15/2009 |
Q: I will be taken out my boyfriend for dinner to celebrate his birthday. This is all he wants because ...
A: You cannot put on an invitation anything about others paying. If you are hosting a party, you must ...
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| Invitation or mailing label ettiquette | 5/14/2009 |
Q: I am preparing for a wedding! Since my Fiance and I are the payees behind everything, I was ...
A: Congratulations are in order! Your name should appear first on any correspondence bearing both of ...
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| Proper Titles | 5/12/2009 |
Q: Is it appropriate to address an individual with a Doctorate in Psychology as "Dr. Mary Smith"? I ...
A: In social situations, honorifics are generally not used, so it would be Ms. Mary Smith. On the ...
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| GRADUATION INVITATIONS | 5/11/2009 |
Q: My grandaughter will graduate from high school on 6/12/09 and is getting ready to send out ...
A: Technically, no it is not proper to run an invitation through the computer to address it. The effort ...
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| work place etiquette | 5/9/2009 |
Q: I own a retail shop in a small town in south Texas and sublet the back room to a lady that has an ...
A: I do apologize for taking so long to answer you. We had to put one of our dogs to sleep and I have ...
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| Thanking a new employer | 5/7/2009 |
Q: My husband has just secured an exciting new position after recently being retrenched and I was ...
A: Thank you gifts and notes can be misconstrued and are not appropriate in the business world in this ...
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| appropriate attire for NYC weekend. | 5/7/2009 |
Q: My wife and I are going to NYC for the weekend to visit our son. He is in a rock-n-roll band there. ...
A: I lived in NYC for years and went to hundreds of shows. One of the nice things about NY is that it ...
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| Addressing envelopes | 5/5/2009 |
Q: Is it appropriate to print labels to stick on envelopes to mail grad invitations? or do we have to ...
A: It is always nicer to hand write invitations. If there are simply too many to manage without ...
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| Informal social/dinner invitation | 4/30/2009 |
Q: I a have a few questions regarding an informal, over the phone, invitation I received from a friend. ...
A: A series of questions is fine and for you actually helps solve your problem. The first thing to ...
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| family issues | 4/28/2009 |
Q: my husband and I have been married 20 years.Two years ago his grandson graduated from college,he ...
A: Your name should definitely be on the invitation. I will give you an example when it would not ...
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| family issues | 4/28/2009 |
Q: my husband and I have been married 20 years.Two years ago his grandson graduated from college,he ...
A: This is a mistake for sure, unless there's something frightening you're not mentioning. Your husband ...
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| Gift for Escort at Debutante Ball | 4/22/2009 |
Q: Can you tell me what kind of gifts are given to the escorts at a Debutante Ball. A gift from the ...
A: There are no gifts given to an escort at a Debutante ball. There has never been such a custom. I ...
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| introduction to Hillary Clinton and Bill Clinton | 4/21/2009 |
Q: How should I address Hillary Clinton when introduced to her? Is it Madam Secretary or Mrs. Clinton? ...
A: With the secretary of state, it is Madam Secretary, not Mrs. Clinton. With a past president it is ...
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| college inviation return address | 4/19/2009 |
Q: Need to be totally clear on this. My son is graduating from college & the company we ordered ...
A: It is graduation time and there will be lots of questions concerning what the right thing to do is. ...
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| seating | 4/11/2009 |
Q: Should the female be seated to the right or left of her male companion assuming they are adjacent to ...
A: The place of honor is always on the right, so depending on where one is sitting; i.e. car, dining ...
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| Grandmother's 90th Birthday | 4/10/2009 |
Q: I live in the UK and sadly can't attend my Grandmother's 90th birthday in Toronto. She is turn such ...
A: To me, the choice of pearls would not be at the top of the list. What comes to mind first is a way ...
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| Gift giving - Allowing Time | 4/9/2009 |
Q: I recently bought a birthday gift for my best friend's three-year-old son for his birthday. I got ...
A: I can tell from your tone that this is a real concern for you. This is how I would handle this. ...
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| college graduation w/ honors | 4/8/2009 |
Q: my son is graduating from college, magna cum laude. his school's graduation announcement gives no ...
A: Congratulations to your son for this truly remarkable achievement. I would suggest a business size ...
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| Graduation Announcements | 4/7/2009 |
Q: Remer, At 35, I am finally receiving my first bachelor's degree in business in May. Of course, ...
A: I will try to explain this clearly and simply for you. First of all I want to congratulate you on ...
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| bridal shower | 4/7/2009 |
Q: I have three short questions. Number 1, Should guests who don't R.S.V.P. be called and by whom? and ...
A: One, guests should be called the host or hostess only if a real head count matters, such as in this ...
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| Co-worker's noisy nasal problem... | 4/6/2009 |
Q: A co-worker of mine has a very nasty habit of sucking his mucus, VERY loudly, every minute or two. ...
A: These sorts of personal questions require some compassion and some candor - a tricky combination. ...
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| Heart Attack | 4/1/2009 |
Q: I work at my local elementary school, one of our volunteers husband has had a heart attack, I am not ...
A: Follow your heart and you will be just fine. Think of what you would want in her situation. Call her ...
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| PotUS title protocol | 4/1/2009 |
Q: I recently asked my local news anchor why they chose to address the sitting president as "mister". ...
A: I agree with you that the sitting president should not be referred to as 'Mr.'. I think it's ...
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| PotUS title protocol | 3/31/2009 |
Q: I recently asked my local news anchor why they chose to address the sitting president as "mister". ...
A: There is a certain gray area here where personal preference comes into play, namely the personal ...
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| potluck b-day | 3/28/2009 |
Q: My daughter is turning one and I was wanting to do a potluck. Of course, I would provide the main ...
A: I disagree with your sister-in-law. First of all, it's none of her business. Secondly, there is ...
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| Landlady tenant etiquette | 3/27/2009 |
Q: I am moving out of my current apartment for a bigger place, I love my current space but its just ...
A: Leaving the apartment as you found it or better is all a landlord would ever want. If you have ...
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| ex wives | 3/24/2009 |
Q: My husbands ex-wife continues to show up at family funerals. We have been married 23 years now and ...
A: You haven't really asked a question here, but I understand what's on your mind. I have answered ...
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| relative's body odor | 3/23/2009 |
Q: My mother-in -law (and father-in-law) have, for a few years now, had serious body odor problems that ...
A: Because no most people this is a no brainer, it makes it all the more difficult to deal with. Taking ...
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| who should receive college graduation announcements | 3/22/2009 |
Q: Our son is graduating and we now know sending announcements 2 weeks after is proper. My question is ...
A: As a rule of thumb, announcements can really be sent out to everyone whom you want to know about ...
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| table etiquette--how to serve cookies | 3/15/2009 |
Q: what is the best way of serving dry cookies on a silver platter? More specifically: should a tray ...
A: Paper doilies work very well in this case. The main reason for this is that people are likely to ...
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| Birthday Party Invitation | 3/14/2009 |
Q: My boyfriends daughter is turning 21 this month. She sent an evite to 100 people through Facebook. ...
A: If it were me, I would expect to go to the party and that everything would be paid for by the host. ...
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| baby announcement for paper | 3/13/2009 |
Q: My daughter just had a little baby girl, and they live out of the area. I want to write a local ...
A: In this day and age, it really depends on the relationship family members have with one another ...
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| group dinner conversation | 3/8/2009 |
Q: Is it rude to have a quiet conversation with the person next to you at a group dinner when there ...
A: It is definitely not rude to have a quiet conversation with the person you are sitting next to. ...
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| grandson's wedding | 3/5/2009 |
Q: am i obligated to give my grandson a party of any kind?
A: Juneau, Thanks for asking this question. No one is obligated to give a party. There are many reasons ...
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| gift etiquette | 3/4/2009 |
Q: My sister has 2 grown sons. One is graduating with his bachelors degree from Rutgers and the other ...
A: This situation implies that there is more importance attached to the Rutgers degree than to the ...
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| RSVP for more than invited | 3/3/2009 |
Q: Following the invite etiquette, I've addressed the envelopes specifically to those invited and the ...
A: At least with email, you needn't embarrass them face to face. You can simply send them a note saying ...
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| signing a birthday card | 3/1/2009 |
Q: Our son has been dating this girl for over one year and we would like to give her a small gift but ...
A: Use the form of address that she uses when speaking to you. If you are, for example, Mr and Mrs. ...
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| graduation announcement | 3/1/2009 |
Q: Would it be proper to somehow indicate in the gradation announcement for our daughter's graduation ...
A: The rule about gifts and invitations is that they don't go hand in hand, except i this case. You can ...
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| dissertation committee thank-you gift protocol | 2/28/2009 |
Q: I have been working toward a PhD since 2002 and am about to defend my disssertation to complete the ...
A: Although a card would be appreciated, a gift would be inappropriate. It looks like bribery. In some ...
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| Borrowing and returning items | 2/24/2009 |
Q: Remer! Thank you for your time and advice! 4 years ago my mom sent me 10 handmade scarves, while ...
A: I can tell from the emotion in your writing that this means a great deal to you. In my opinion, this ...
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| Roommate Etiquette | 2/24/2009 |
Q: I am relocating this summer & I have a friend who said I can stay with him until I land a job, find ...
A: I can only respond to this particular e-mail address. 'They' edit out the other one. You are ...
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| Winery/Tasting Room Open House | 2/23/2009 |
Q: Friends of ours are having a private open house at their new winery/tasting room (central ...
A: The safest thing to give a friend like this who likely has everything is a nice silver or ...
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| table manners | 2/22/2009 |
Q: Is it proper for an adult male to wear a baseball cap/hat at the dinner/supper table while eating.
A: It is not proper for anyone to wear a baseball cap inside a building(other than a sports dome), let ...
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| Mother's 90th Birthday Celebration | 2/21/2009 |
Q: Can I ask friends and family to pay a small amount to attend this celebration making it similar to a ...
A: I have often heard this question in varying forms, but never quite like this one. First of all, the ...
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| Is there a polite way to invite yourself into someone's house? | 2/20/2009 |
Q: I live far away from the city where most of my friends and family are. I make a special effort to ...
A: This is not a matter of who is right. This is a matter of being honest and straight forward with ...
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| Arrival times | 2/18/2009 |
Q: I don't know what to do about this, everytime a family member comes to visit or say they will visit, ...
A: It has given me time to think about what the dynamic is that is actually going on here. Your sister ...
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| Arrival times | 2/18/2009 |
Q: I don't know what to do about this, everytime a family member comes to visit or say they will visit, ...
A: Although I am not crystal clear on what you are asking I think I have the general idea. First of ...
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| letter to Mayor of London | 2/17/2009 |
Q: How do i address a letter to Boris Johnson the Mayor of London
A: As follow is the answer: The Right Honourable the Lord Mayor of the City of London Boris Johnson ...
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| Shower invitations | 2/13/2009 |
Q: My uncle past away 3 months ago and I am sending out my bridal shower invitations but I don't know ...
A: You should absolutely send them the invitations. What a gentle way for them to begin to celebrate ...
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| birthday invite | 2/12/2009 |
Q: I recently made plans to take a friend out to dinner for her birthday. After the plans were made, ...
A: I have no idea exactly how your conversation went; however, I believe honesty is always the best ...
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| birthday invite | 2/12/2009 |
Q: I recently made plans to take a friend out to dinner for her birthday. After the plans were made, ...
A: This is how I would handle this inappropriate request. First of all, assume that the birthday girl ...
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| Office Manners | 2/9/2009 |
Q: I employ 5 people in a small manufacturing shop. I don't have a problem with my employees talking ...
A: Perhaps you've heard the expression, 'give them an inch and they'll take a mile'? This is exactly ...
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| obituary | 2/4/2009 |
Q: The family is drafting my grandmother's obituary. What is the rule governing the inclusion of ...
A: There is no rule governing the writing of obituaries. Just read the obituary page some time. ...
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| former mayor title | 2/3/2009 |
Q: How would I address a man who was a mayor of a city and is now working in another city in a ...
A: You would address him as Mr. In formal introductions he would be referred to as The Honorable, ...
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| Proper Gift | 2/3/2009 |
Q: I've been invited to the ceremony for a friend who has been promoted to Colonel in the army. Do I ...
A: There is no better group of individuals to honor for promotions than out armed forces. Personally, I ...
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| in law bridesmaid | 2/2/2009 |
Q: My son is getting married he has one sister and my feelings are crushed his fiance did not ask her ...
A: These questions are not really about etiquette, but I'm happy to give you my input. Your son needs ...
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| looking for a word | 2/2/2009 |
Q: What word would be used to decribe an invite- when you are inviting someone to something that you ...
A: Although this isn't an etiquette question, it's an interesting question nonetheless - not to imply ...
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| party invitations | 1/30/2009 |
Q: What is a non-offensive way to word an birthday dinner invitation that lets people know that they ...
A: Unfortunately for you there is no way to do this. Invitations, by definition, are issued by a host. ...
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| Ex-husband shows up with girlfriend at sons and ex-inlaws during the holiday. | 1/29/2009 |
Q: My ex-husband who really has no relationship with my son and I showed up Christmas at my son's house ...
A: Your ex husband is clearly in the wrong here, not to speak of his current girl friend. Neither one ...
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| Introductions | 1/28/2009 |
Q: What is the proper etiquette for introductions when out to eat, etc. and my date spots casual ...
A: Your date should introduce you. If he does not do so, then you should feel free to introduce ...
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| Social etiquette | 1/27/2009 |
Q: When addressing an envelope with both man and woman of the couple being doctors, how should the ...
A: When both persons are medical doctors and share the same surname, you can address the envelope Drs. ...
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| Favors | 1/26/2009 |
Q: Jay, A friend I recently got acquainted. We're not closed. One day, at lunch, I noticed her ...
A: You did do the right thing by returning the earrings. They weren't what you wanted and the game ...
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| Gift exchange whatnot | 1/25/2009 |
Q: When socializing in a group; I always have friends that like to do gift exchange(be it birthday, bon ...
A: I completely understand how you feel about this. There is some responsibility that lies with you, ...
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| A dispute between brothers | 1/25/2009 |
Q: I was hoping you would lend your impartial ear to this debate between my brother and I. This ...
A: You are a master of making excuses. Unfortunately none of them are any good. You and your wife are ...
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| thank you gift etiquette | 1/24/2009 |
Q: We recently offered our used infant car seat to an acquaintance whom we knew was expecting a baby. ...
A: Please, quietly accept the gift. In her eyes, she felt it was appropriate. I agree with her. She is ...
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| Family visit etiquette | 1/23/2009 |
Q: My father and mother-in law let us know about an impending visit/stay in our home by faxing their ...
A: This is totally unacceptable. The operative word here is RESPECT. They have none for you or your ...
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| Men with Straws | 1/22/2009 |
Q: I was raised in the southern U.S. (Tennessee) and my father always taught me that boys/men don't use ...
A: There are no strict rules on the use of straws. However, common sense would dictate that straws are ...
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| birthday toasts | 1/22/2009 |
Q: I'm having a 50th birthday party for my husband at a very casual local bar/restaurant--including a ...
A: I think the way to handle this is to ask his brother if he would be willing to make a toast during ...
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| not inviting someone on vacation | 1/22/2009 |
Q: My 4 friends and I are planning a trip to New York City this coming May. The dilemma is that we do ...
A: Although this is not a real etiquette question, I will still give you my advice, which like ...
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| addressing the president of US | 1/20/2009 |
Q: I am in a disagreement with a local news station. They are saying it is of good manners to call a ...
A: The newslady was dead wrong! A sitting president's surname is never used in conversation. He is ...
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| University Graduation Announcements | 1/20/2009 |
Q: After over 10 years I will finally be graduating from university with my bachelor's degree. I live ...
A: The first thing to remember is that announcements are usually sent out two weeks after the ceremony. ...
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| New year house party | 1/16/2009 |
Q: At a B.Y.O.B party, can you take home extra booze you brought in case it may have been needed? Also ...
A: As to the first question, yes, she should phone ahead and see what a good time to stop by to ...
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| New year house party | 1/16/2009 |
Q: At a B.Y.O.B party, can you take home extra booze you brought in case it may have been needed? Also ...
A: At a B.Y.O.B. party you can take home whatever you bring that you do not consume. Be aware however ...
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| Sympathy Card Etiquette | 1/15/2009 |
Q: It is our policy at our museum to review the obituaries and forward a sympathy card to our former ...
A: Three weeks is fine, five is pushing it. You don't want to appear as though you are looking for ...
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| ex spouses | 1/15/2009 |
Q: I have been divorced for 14 years. My former husband did not participate in any way with our three ...
A: There are certain things we have control over and certain things we don't. In this case, the only ...
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| gifts | 1/12/2009 |
Q: I know a couple who are retired and relatively well off. They have helped me in the past.(not ...
A: I can only guess that there folks don't want you spending your hard earned money on them. That's sad ...
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| Etiquette in receiving nasty re-gifted items | 1/12/2009 |
Q: I received a belated Christmas gift from my dad/grandma that was thrown into a brown paper bag with ...
A: I am really surprised that anyone, let alone your father, would have the nerve to do this. It shows ...
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| greeting / talking from a car | 1/12/2009 |
Q: my question is if a man drives past another man (neighbour) and stops for a chat (more than 15 min), ...
A: I am unaware of any specific reference to this situation. In my opinion, it would be polite to pull ...
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| my place is to small | 1/11/2009 |
Q: We have aquaintences,that are friends of our friends.......I invited them to a birthday dinner ...
A: Let me give you some advice here. You are hosting the party. You call the shots. It sounds like that ...
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| Lunch Aromas In Office Space | 1/9/2009 |
Q: We work in a tight newsroom with barely any ventilation and windows that cannot open due to ...
A: Small spaces call for big respect when it comes to food odors, colognes, noises, or anything else ...
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| can a wife have a private christening without inviting her husband or his family | 1/8/2009 |
Q: Can a wife have a private christening without inviting her husband or his family? ANSWER: Dear ...
A: By law, she may not be allowed to this, but this a matter of church law and not proper etiquette. I ...
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| can a wife have a private christening without inviting her husband or his family | 1/8/2009 |
Q: Can a wife have a private christening without inviting her husband or his family?
A: I suppose there could be some bizarre scenario whereby this would be possible, but as a rule I would ...
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| behreavement donations to family | 1/6/2009 |
Q: Close friends of ours recently lost their young son very unexpectedly. While attending the services ...
A: What a very sad situation. There are many ways people can help at such times. Although cash is ...
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| 50th Anniversary invitations | 1/2/2009 |
Q: We are giving my parents a 50th anniversary celebration. They don't need gifts of gold tray etc., or ...
A: The only way to handle 'no gifts' is not via the invitation. This should be done word of mouth if at ...
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| Christmas gift giving | 1/1/2009 |
Q: My sister (age 42) and I (age 40) exchange Christmas gifts for our children. We have always set a ...
A: You are right. You are being way too petty. You have missed the entire spirit of gift giving. If ...
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| Thank you cards for Christmas gifts | 12/29/2008 |
Q: MyIs it proper etiquette to write thank you notes to family members who give you Christmas gifts ...
A: Thank you notes are always proper etiquette. In families who see each other often and live close by, ...
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| religion in the office | 12/23/2008 |
Q: We have someone in the office that is religious and each year he gives everybody in the office ...
A: This is one of the most inappropriate gifts I can imagine. I can see how a number of people could be ...
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| X spouse | 12/23/2008 |
Q: I am married to a man who has an xspouse since 1999 that attends all of his family's wakes/funerals ...
A: This woman needs to be stopped. Unfortunately it is up to your husband to take care of this ...
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| Theater Etiquette | 12/22/2008 |
Q: When taking one's seat in a theater, is it appropriate to face towards or away from those seated, in ...
A: There is no rule written in stone on this, however I always face the front of the theatre while ...
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| high school graduation announcements | 12/21/2008 |
Q: I have a niece who lives at a boarding school in Kenya Africa. Her parents have been missionaries ...
A: Graduation announcements are sent out after the graduation. There should be no mention of gifts on ...
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| Grandmothers death | 12/21/2008 |
Q: This is a strange question, but here we go... My grandmother just passed. I have not seen her in ...
A: The choice is yours on this one. Token sympathy cards are a waste of time. If you have a heartfelt ...
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| Addressing Envelopes | 12/19/2008 |
Q: When addressing envelopes to a husband and wife who do not wish to go by Mr. and Mrs. is to proper ...
A: When addressing envelopes, using honorifics (Mr. and Mrs.) is very standard. You could use Mr. Dick ...
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| Social Faux Pas | 12/18/2008 |
Q: Recently my girlfriend's parents (her Dad and Stepmother) took us on an all-expenses-paid trip to ...
A: First of all, let me say that your girlfriend's Dad is a wonderful man for presenting this the way ...
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| printed note cards | 12/17/2008 |
Q: I know on a pre-printed card one should always sign one's own name rather than let the pre-printed ...
A: Princess Diana would do this to personalize the card and for the person to know that she actually ...
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| debutante ball | 12/16/2008 |
Q: I would like to hold a debutante ball or a cotillion for a fundraiser. I know some sororities host ...
A: This is an immense subject. The planning involved in such an event is very complex. Think of it as ...
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| Paying a Call | 12/14/2008 |
Q: My mother made a spontaneous call on my father's Boss's wife and was turned away and asked to call ...
A: This is a pet peeve of mine mostly because of how I was raised. I was taught never to call on ...
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| deep pockets, short arms | 12/13/2008 |
Q: I am in a group of 5 friends from school 40 years ago who meet most weeks and have meals including ...
A: First, let me say that I am about to celebrate my 40th reunion with my classmates and think it is ...
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| guest took home left over wine | 12/12/2008 |
Q: I host Easter, Thanksgiving, and Xmas in my family. A relative asked could they bring anything, and ...
A: The worst thing about this picture is the fact that they cornered your housekeeper. Taking home ...
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| wording of invite | 12/9/2008 |
Q: Do you think its proper or improper for the wording on the invitation for a 50th anniversary party ...
A: I am on your side with this one. Especially if you are in fact a hostess (ie paying for the affair), ...
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| Break ups | 12/6/2008 |
Q: My best friend, Bryn and my Brother in law, jarred started kind of dating.... (he just got out of a ...
A: This is really not about etiquette, but I will give you the advice that I think will be helpful. ...
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| family visits | 11/29/2008 |
Q: My husband has brothers that frequently come to visit us. Both are bachelors and both live a good ...
A: You are showing the patience of Job. This is how I see your situation. First of all, you and your ...
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| Holidays with my Ex | 11/27/2008 |
Q: I have been divorced for 10 years and have two daughters, 30 and 31. Both are married and one has ...
A: Your children are out of line here. You may want to consider having a discussion with your daughters ...
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| Bar Etiquette | 11/27/2008 |
Q: A friend has what I would call a rude habit and I am asking if you agree, and if so what should we ...
A: As you describe these situations, I consider them to be rude, especially if you are there with him ...
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| Pre Christmas drinks | 11/24/2008 |
Q: I would like to invite a few guests for pre Christmas drinks in the early afternoon, guests to leave ...
A: What a lovely idea! When you extend the invitation (either verbally or written) be sure to state the ...
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| wedding invitation | 11/21/2008 |
Q: Recently I received a wedding invitation that was addressed by the motther of the groom (I am quite ...
A: To be frank, you are incorrect here. There are untold numbers of weddings which occur each year ...
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| Visiting Family and Accomodations | 11/20/2008 |
Q: I live ~400 miles from my Parents, and while I do enjoy having them visit, to spend time with us and ...
A: I love the family counseling idea! In the meantime, it is important for you and your wife to remain ...
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| Visiting Family and Accomodations | 11/20/2008 |
Q: I live ~400 miles from my Parents, and while I do enjoy having them visit, to spend time with us and ...
A: Although this situation falls well outside of the arena of proper etiquette, I can see you need some ...
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| Trying Foods at a Pot Luck | 11/20/2008 |
Q: At a recent office pot luck I had a friend and coworker become offended that I didn't try her salad, ...
A: I think that enough time has passed so that bringing this up with your friend now would be ...
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| Visiting Family and Accomodations | 11/20/2008 |
Q: I live ~400 miles from my Parents, and while I do enjoy having them visit, to spend time with us and ...
A: This is a case of total lack of respect for you and your family. Your mother is way out of line ...
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| Christmas gift giving . . . | 11/19/2008 |
Q: I'm the president of a small homeowners association--ten townhouses. I have discovered that last ...
A: Your association should remind the tenants that the mail man and the UPS man should not be forgotten ...
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| Thanksgiving Dinner | 11/19/2008 |
Q: My husband and I are hosting Thanksgiving this year for his family. We have agreed that I will ...
A: The old saying that you can pick your friends but not your family is alive and well I see. I agree ...
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| Trying Foods at a Pot Luck | 11/19/2008 |
Q: At a recent office pot luck I had a friend and coworker become offended that I didn't try her salad, ...
A: You did not exhibit poor manners in this situation, your friend did. Your tastes are such that you ...
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| Wording for Invitation... | 11/18/2008 |
Q: I want to invite 12 of my husbands friends to dinner at a Japanese (pricey) restaurant. I am ...
A: This is yet another variation on a question involving hosting a party but not paying for it ...
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| memorial donations to nonprofit | 11/12/2008 |
Q: I run a nonprofit raising money for hepatitis C research. I am in the process of setting up a ...
A: Although there is no set protocol for this, I think notifying the families about your website and ...
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| opeining gifts at a retirement party | 11/11/2008 |
Q: What is the proper etiquette about opening gifts at a retirement party if I am the recipient? It is ...
A: It is your choice entirely. People often times find it entertaining to see the expression on your ...
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| 15 year gift | 11/10/2008 |
Q: I would like to know if the amount of money on a child should go up as the child gets older I have ...
A: The amount of money you spend on a child has nothing whatsoever to do with his age. Their wants and ...
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| thanksgiving and in laws | 11/9/2008 |
Q: My husband said I should not have my mom and papa come to his sister's house for thanksgiving, ...
A: Your husband is dead wrong on this.You are right in saying that when two people get married, ...
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| academic titles | 11/7/2008 |
Q: First, thank you for the answer to the newly minted Ph.D. I also have the following and don't know ...
A: Although this can be a matter of personal preference, I would certainly agree with you about the ...
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| cancelling an employee holiday party | 11/4/2008 |
Q: For many years, our President has hosted a formal holiday party for staff and board members. This ...
A: I'm sorry that I missed the point on the question about canceling the party. I would word it ...
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| cancelling an employee holiday party | 11/4/2008 |
Q: For many years, our President has hosted a formal holiday party for staff and board members. This ...
A: I think the wording you have sent me is excellent. You do not need to feel embarrassed or provide an ...
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| Thank you's for Bday presents | 11/3/2008 |
Q: I am a 22 year old University student and live away from home. I have an extremely tight budget but ...
A: You are indeed a generous person. The fact of the matter is that children are not born with an ...
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| Addressing Female Doctors | 11/3/2008 |
Q: I have a question about distinguishing female doctors from their doctor husbands in conversation. ...
A: A medical doctor is always referred to as Dr. whether male or female. Some one holding a doctorate ...
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| strange response | 11/2/2008 |
Q: I am not sure if this is an etiquette question but this is as close as I can find on this website ...
A: I think it sounds like the woman may still be grieving. It also sounds like she may be a bit ...
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| bald head from chemo | 11/1/2008 |
Q: my husband wants to go to church but dosen't want to take his cap off. Is this exceptable? we have ...
A: Your husband really should remove his cap whenever he is inside a church or other building. I can ...
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| Signatures on Greeting Cards | 10/31/2008 |
Q: I just saw your answer about male-dominated societies putting the man's name first when signing ...
A: And I apologize for taking so long to reply. Women do in fact still take precedence over men in ...
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| dining with United Nations Ambassadors | 10/31/2008 |
Q: I am hosting a dinner for United Nations Ambassaadors and their wives and some of them are bringing ...
A: Given that children are invited, I am assuming this is an informal gathering. There are many strict ...
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| Themed Pot Luck - sort of | 10/31/2008 |
Q: Working on a themed dinner for Christmas for approximately 25 guests. We are providing all of the ...
A: You can't put any mention of this very good idea on the the invitation as suggestions of gifts or ...
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| House Party | 10/30/2008 |
Q: I share a house with someone. They are having a Halloween party and I have said I don't think it is ...
A: Sharing a house with someone can have its challenges for sure. I hope you have your own bedroom ...
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| presents | 10/26/2008 |
Q: I am about to have a birthday party for my 60th birthday. Without being presumptuous, I would ...
A: It would actually be a good idea to have a card table with a guest book for your well wishers to ...
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| receiving thoughtless gifts | 10/24/2008 |
Q: If someone gives you a gift that you don't like or need , is it ok to give it back to them and tell ...
A: It is absolutely not okay to give a gift back to the donor. That would be rude and inconsiderate, ...
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| Prospective male boss insisting a married wumyn have dinner with him while traveling? | 10/24/2008 |
Q: We just started a small business. So traveling would most likely come into the picture and we both ...
A: This does fall more into the advice category more so than etiquette, but I will give you some advice ...
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| hand shakes | 10/23/2008 |
Q: After 12 years of marriage I am now divorced. Every time I see my Ex in a social situations (kids ...
A: There is no set protocol for these situations. Each divorce and relationship has its own dynamics. ...
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| etiquette | 10/21/2008 |
Q: My husband and I were told to plan on going to a two night New Years celebration at a very nice ...
A: This is indeed a bizarre situation. It is disrespectful and rude for someone to withdraw an ...
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| selling something that was given to you | 10/21/2008 |
Q: My sister was going to throw out some older furniture. She asked me if I wanted it so I said sure. A ...
A: In the strictest sense of the word, you are absolutely correct in what you did. Your sister is ...
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| Post Baptismal Party | 10/20/2008 |
Q: I am having my son baptized on Nov 2. After mass, we are treating his Godparents to brunch at a ...
A: There is no correct way to word this on an invitation. If you are hosting a party, you pay for it as ...
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| gift return | 10/19/2008 |
Q: My mother in law has a habit of returning gifts to my husband and I that we have given to her or ...
A: Your mother-in-law is struggling with life. I doubt she has any intention of being inconsiderate or ...
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| Guest ettiquette | 10/18/2008 |
Q: My cousin has married into a very wealthy family, our family is middle class. I have been invited to ...
A: Wealth aside, the mother-in-law needs a good shake. I have never heard of such a rude invitation ...
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| Acknowlegement Letters | 10/17/2008 |
Q: When a donation is made to a nonprofit organization in someone's honor should you mention the ...
A: Casalina, Thanks for asking this very good question. The answer is no. Often times such donations ...
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| First Birthday Invite | 10/16/2008 |
Q: We are planning our daughter's first birthday party and are having a "green" theme. We thought it ...
A: In my opinion, this is totally not acceptable. There certainly is no correct way to mention gifts on ...
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| professional credentials | 10/16/2008 |
Q: Is it poor etiquette to have professional credentials appear on a personal e-mail or correspondence. ...
A: There is no question that you worked hard to become a nurse. You are in a wonderful job and you are ...
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| Cancelling an event that was RSVP | 10/15/2008 |
Q: I am a fundraiser for a symphony. I had scheduled a barbecue for members of our leadership giving ...
A: Please forgive my tardiness in answering your good question. I have been having some computer ...
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| seating mothers at wedding | 10/15/2008 |
Q: My son is getting married and he has a bio mother and stepfather who raised him, a bio father and ...
A: Coming from a blended family myself I completely understand your confusion. Wedding ceremonies are ...
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| Best seating arrangements for a restaurant | 10/13/2008 |
Q: I am an MA student in marketing and we have to do a marketing plan for a local ...
A: There are several ways of handling this. If it is just 10 people, or even as many as 14, a long ...
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| white on cruises | 10/11/2008 |
Q: Does the "do not wear white after Labor Day." rule apply to cruise ships? I say "no" and my ...
A: You win on this one. Not only does the rule not apply to cruise ships, it's even being extended a ...
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| 50 th weddng anniversary | 10/10/2008 |
Q: We belong to a club and one of our members is having a 50th wedding anniversary. We would like to ...
A: Variations on this question are asked every week. The answer is always the same. There really is no ...
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| Proper etiquette for testing blood sugar | 10/10/2008 |
Q: My friend is insulin dependent diabetic. Before she begins a meal she will take out her tester and ...
A: Life does present us with a number of sensitive situations. This is one. Oddly enough, we have no ...
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| Proper etiquette for testing blood sugar | 10/9/2008 |
Q: My friend is insulin dependent diabetic. Before she begins a meal she will take out her tester and ...
A: I would be totally offended too. Your friend should never do this at the table. This should be ...
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| sending out wedding invitations | 10/8/2008 |
Q: Is the proper etiquette to not send an invitation to someone who has already told you they will be ...
A: The answer is no. It is not proper etiquette to not send that person an invitation. If they are on ...
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| Rude speakers | 10/7/2008 |
Q: Twice in the last several years I have attended events associated with adult alumni at which a ...
A: The coincidence of this happening twice in a row begs the question of what kind of alumni ...
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| etiquette | 10/6/2008 |
Q: I would like to host a party at a restaurant. How can I word the invitation so that it is clear ...
A: When you invite someone to a party, whether at your home or a restaurant, it is understood that you ...
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| Proper address | 10/5/2008 |
Q: how do you address a person who has a PhD?
A: If someone has a Ph.D., let's say in English or History, they are addressed as Mr. or Ms. unless ...
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| Teenager Rude with Houseguest | 10/4/2008 |
Q: We have a behavior issue with our otherwise good 15 year old teenager and we are not certain how to ...
A: This is not really an issue about being rude. In my opinion your son is depressed, and telling him ...
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| Gifts between friends | 10/2/2008 |
Q: A good friend and I, both single parents, have exchanged Christmas and b-day gifts for many years. ...
A: It really isn't a question of etiquette as it is one for some good advice which I am happy to give ...
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| Belated wedding presents | 10/2/2008 |
Q: In the past, I have neglected to give wedding presents to friends of mine when they got married. ...
A: I would handle this situation by giving the couples anniversary gifts. I would avoid asking them ...
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| office whistler | 9/30/2008 |
Q: There is a very sweet lady who works in our very small office and whistles often. This drives me ...
A: Let's begin with the last sentence. I understand your not wanting to hurt her feelings. No one wants ...
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| Engagement party | 9/30/2008 |
Q: I have recently been invited to an engagement party/bbq and was wondering, are you supposed to bring ...
A: Although there is nothing that says that you have to bring a gift, I think it would be in very poor ...
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| belated sympathy | 9/29/2008 |
Q: I just found out that a good friend lost her mother 2 months ago. We have not been in contact for ...
A: It is never too late to express your heart felt sympathy to your friend over her loss. "Busy lives ...
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| Engagement etiquette | 9/29/2008 |
Q: My daughter and her boyfriend just got engaged. They are well into their thirties. Should I ...
A: As your daughter and her boyfriend are adults, hopefully gainfully employed, it is really up to them ...
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| mother's 80th bday | 9/26/2008 |
Q: I have a room booked for my mother's birthday. I have 4 siblings who have children who are grown and ...
A: which by the way has been answered many many times on here. The answer is YES. If you invite people ...
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| Using a gift certificate if we dine with another couple | 9/26/2008 |
Q: We are going to dinner with friends. We have a gift certificate to the restaurant. can we use that ...
A: It is perfectly fine to use your gift certificate. However, I would arrange payment out of view of ...
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| advice needed for encroaching priest | 9/25/2008 |
Q: I need some sound advice. Please help. we own 2 homes in different parts of Texas due to a work ...
A: I applaud you and your husband for trying to find a tactful way of saying no, but please remember, ...
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| walking etiquette | 9/24/2008 |
Q: When on an outting, does the man walk ahead of or behind the woman
A: Today, in the US or Canada, men and women walk side by side. The old custom of the gentleman walking ...
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| Thank you | 9/23/2008 |
Q: I recently hosted a couples baby shower for friends of mine. I put a lot of work into it (hand made ...
A: I am appalled. The very least you should have gotten was a beautiful hand written note. A phone call ...
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| Child's Birthday Invitation | 9/22/2008 |
Q: In the past parents have asked exactly what type of gift should they bring from my son. I've ...
A: You cannot mention gifts on an invitation - ever - unless it's "best wishes only". So tacky would be ...
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| Who pays for the wedding when the bride's parents are divorced | 9/22/2008 |
Q: My step-daughter just got engaged and is just starting to plan her wedding. Her father and I have ...
A: The finances are one of the first, if not the first, things that need to be addressed. Your ...
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| Wedding Thank You's | 9/21/2008 |
Q: We requested that instead of a gift a donation to our Temple would be appreciated. Do we need to ...
A: Customarily the Temple would forward you a list of donors. You would write to each one, just as you ...
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| Etiquette question | 9/15/2008 |
Q: I recently entered a bank and the gentleman walking towards the bank in front of me stopped and ...
A: No is the answer. Being polite and courteous makes both parties feel good. He wanted you to go ahead ...
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| looking and hello | 9/14/2008 |
Q: (Hi, I'm 22. last week we went to a family party. After we arrived my cousin and my aunt arrived and ...
A: Your English, by the way, is very understandable. People should look at one another when speaking. ...
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| Memorial service | 9/13/2008 |
Q: My brother passed away last month and was creamated. We had a small church service, and than a ...
A: In short, there is no correct way to do this. If you extend an invitation you are obliged to pay the ...
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| regarding social etiquette | 9/12/2008 |
Q: My husband is on a business trip to edinburgh and i have accompanied him. His boss has invited us ...
A: An appropriate hostess gift would be a box of chocolates. Try to find a shop where they make ...
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| Hairdresser ediquite | 9/9/2008 |
Q: My hairdersser was just married. Is a just card appropriate, or should a gift be given. And what ...
A: The choice is yours on this one. You are not obliged to give a gift. A card would be appreciated, ...
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| Addressing letters | 9/9/2008 |
Q: How do you address a letter or invitation to Mr. and Mrs. Doctors? Dr. and Dr? Dr. and Drs? Dr. ...
A: If they share the same last name, you can address the invitation to The Doctors Doe or to Dr. John ...
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| Informal use of First Names? Which name is listed first? | 9/7/2008 |
Q: Jill and John Smith or John and Jill Smith I have always thought that the rule was never ...
A: I know of no such rule. The man's name, in our male dominated society, precedes the woman's name. So ...
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| envelope addressing | 9/5/2008 |
Q: I am addressing envelopes to a husband and wife who are both practicing physicians. How do I ...
A: If they both use the same last name. you can address the envelope to The Doctors Doe or Dr. John Doe ...
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| Death of a beloved pet | 9/4/2008 |
Q: I have a co worker that is planning to put down his beloved pet dog this Saturday. I want to send ...
A: Having owned many dogs over the years, I can relate to this situation. What we do when friends must ...
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| College Graduation | 9/4/2008 |
Q: I am gong to be graduating from college this December, and I am not sure about proper college ...
A: And, congratulations! Whoever told you that you can do whatever you want is grossly misinformed. ...
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| Gift Giving to your Guests | 9/3/2008 |
Q: I'm planning my 40th birthday party and I wanted to know if it is customary for the honoree to give ...
A: It is not necessarily customary for the birthday girl to give gifts to her guests, however it is ...
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| Sympathy card w/money | 9/3/2008 |
Q: My boss gave me a sympathy card with money in it to use as needed. What is the proper "thank you ...
A: A sincere hand written note expressing your gratitude for your boss acknowledging your loss and time ...
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| wedding etiquette | 9/2/2008 |
Q: I'm going to a Black Tie Optional wedding next week, early September in the midwest where it's still ...
A: In this day and age, unless you're meeting the Queen, hose is not required. Furthermore, it would be ...
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| Family visits | 8/30/2008 |
Q: When we visit my brother -in law for several days they don't change the bedding or have soap to bath ...
A: I can understand your confusion. Different people run their households differently. Personally, when ...
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| Loss of unborn child | 8/29/2008 |
Q: I would like to express my sympathy to a close friend who just lost her unborn child, what would be ...
A: This is a time of intense grief for your friend (and her husband if he is present). Be sincere when ...
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| Doing the right thing | 8/27/2008 |
Q: An adult guest visits our home sits in a childs chair which breaks as a result of his weight, should ...
A: The correct thing to do is for the person breaking anything to offer to pay for repairs or ...
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| Etiquette question | 8/27/2008 |
Q: My boyfriend and I just got in a fight about this issue so I wanted to get a second opinion. On my ...
A: I must side totally with your boyfriend on this issue and I will explain exactly why. The evening ...
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| Proper greetings. | 8/27/2008 |
Q: What is the proper way to greet someone? I have heard people say "Nice to see you" as well as "Nice ...
A: The proper way to greet someone is to say "How do you do, Ms. Smith. My name is John Doe". Nice to ...
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| wedding invite | 8/24/2008 |
Q: My husband's sister is getting married. The invite was addressed to Mr & Mrs Joe Smith, Mr Bobby ...
A: There is no doubt that this is an awkward situation. However, what you are suggesting will make ...
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| Fathers Day Lunch | 8/24/2008 |
Q: My daughter visited her father and stepmother (they have been married 9 years)for Father's Day ...
A: I understand your point of view. And were there a number of people going to the lunch I would agree. ...
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| Proper Etiquette | 8/24/2008 |
Q: I am an 18 year old planning a trip to South Africa this November. I will be staying with a local, ...
A: South Africa is a beautiful country with two completely different cultural backgrounds. The fact ...
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| Farewell Dinner Party | 8/22/2008 |
Q: I am a bit confused about proper etiquette regarding the following situation. A friend (of 12 ...
A: This situation does not call for either party to hold a dinner party. Both you and your friend could ...
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| invitees | 8/21/2008 |
Q: We followed invitation addressing protocol. Yet, my cousin emails me that her son & daughter in law ...
A: I would answer the e-mail by saying you are sorry her son and daughter in law are unable to come. ...
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| Family Bridal Shower | 8/19/2008 |
Q: Is it proper for the bride and her mother and/or grandmother to assist in planning the family bridal ...
A: Today, many bridal showers are hosted by the maid of honor, but not all. It is certainly acceptable ...
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| Social etiquette | 8/16/2008 |
Q: My son recently got married. His bride did not take is last name. She uses her maiden name.If I ...
A: You are correct in the first instance: Jon Doe and Mary Smith. Envelopes are addressed Mr. Jon Doe ...
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| opening birthday gifts | 8/15/2008 |
Q: I'm hosting a party for my daughter's 50th birthday. There will be approximately 40 guests. ...
A: There is no 'proper' in this case. I think it's always exciting to see the gifts and to see the ...
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| Relatives that stay too long | 8/15/2008 |
Q: My inlaws come to town twice a year and always stay for 2 weeks. I feel that it is a long time to ...
A: I assume you are asking this question because they are staying in your house as opposed to a local ...
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| Bridal showers | 8/10/2008 |
Q: A couple I know is getting married. There are to be (3) bridal showers. One for family, one for ...
A: You are old fashioned for which I applaud you. Sadly people today try to come up with brilliant ...
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| 60th/70th Birthday Party Present | 8/6/2008 |
Q: I'm hosting a bday party for my mom and dad who will be turning 60 and 70 respectively. My siblings ...
A: I apologize for not having answered it yesterday. I think your idea is a brilliant one! This should ...
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| gift | 8/5/2008 |
Q: We have had a business relationship with a company for years. They have been bought out by a couple ...
A: There is no gift required in this situation. However, if you would like to extend a warm welcome to ...
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| invitation wording | 8/5/2008 |
Q: I am the wife of an Air Force Command Chief and we are expecting the arrival of our new Wing ...
A: As this casual party is going to be at your house, you have complete control of the guest list. It ...
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| Sympathy card | 8/4/2008 |
Q: Is it proper to pass around a sympathy card for signature in a department (about 25 people) for the ...
A: For a sympathy card, I think it best that everyone express their own feelings. The feelings one is ...
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| notes on hostess gifts | 7/30/2008 |
Q: What is the proper etiquette regarding hostess gifts. Are you supposed to put a note on it so the ...
A: It is always a good idea to attach a note of some kind to any gift you give. Imagine the confusion ...
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| Greetings | 7/30/2008 |
Q: Jay! I own a coffee shop and am now asking my employees to use my name when they say "Hi" to me, my ...
A: You are absolutely correct! Not only is it good manners; it is a job requirement now. You own your ...
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| sympathy card when 1 partner loses parent | 7/29/2008 |
Q: My cousin's partner (they live together, own house together, are not kids--in 60's)just lost his ...
A: What a sad time for both of them. However, mothers are mothers and in this case a card written to ...
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| Sitting on stage | 7/29/2008 |
Q: Jay, To clarify my previous question; when I sit on the platform at church, I generally cross my ...
A: There is no rule of etiquette addressing this particular matter. I think church platforms are ...
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| THANK YOU CARD | 7/26/2008 |
Q: I SENT A H.S. GRADUATION CARD WITH A CHECK FOR A $100 TO MY FRIEND'S SON IN JUNE. THE CHECK WAS ...
A: You should have received a thank-you note within a few days of giving the very generous gift. The ...
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| Table manners | 7/25/2008 |
Q: When you are through eating, are the tines up or down? When you are resting during a meal, are ...
A: In dining, there are two recognized styles of Western dining. They are American and Continental. In ...
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| Foreign Language | 7/25/2008 |
Q: Two questions. Is it proper to engage in an entire (or partial)conversation in a foreign language ...
A: Foreign language conversations in someone's house who doesn't speak the language are rude unless one ...
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| receiving wedding invitation | 7/23/2008 |
Q: I recently received a wedding invitation addressed to me on the envelope. Inside the invitation was ...
A: Generic RSVP cards can be problematic and in your case misleading. In fact, if the invitation is ...
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| restaurant manners | 7/22/2008 |
Q: I am contacting you regarding two manner question.It is:What should I do with my tie during dinner ...
A: You should do nothing with your tie. I advise keeping your suit jacket buttoned to prevent the tie ...
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| Engagement Gift | 7/18/2008 |
Q: What is the going price for a high class engagement party. It is an engagement party with over 200 ...
A: Frankly this is an odd question. Hosting parties and the budgets that go with them are very ...
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| Mr. Doe III? or John III? | 7/16/2008 |
Q: For a full name of John Doe, III. 1. How should I be addressed or introduced formally? As “Mr. ...
A: I have a suffix, so I know what you're dealing with. In answer toy our first question, formally you ...
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| Birthday wording etiquette | 7/15/2008 |
Q: My niece just sent my sister a e greeting for her 60th birthday which reads "may you have good ...
A: I agree with both you and your sister. What an inappropriate way to phrase 'best wishes'. Your niece ...
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| protolcol for wedding invites | 7/9/2008 |
Q: we are getting marriage next year and am perplexed at the correct order of names on the invites is ...
A: For wedding invitations, Mr. precedes Mrs. or Ms. - always. I know there will be a lot of questions ...
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| check cashing | 7/7/2008 |
Q: What is the appropriate span of time that you should wait to cash a personal check? i know someone ...
A: Fortunately there are banking regulations in place which protect everyone. Usually there is a 3 to 6 ...
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| Bringing food to a potluck | 7/6/2008 |
Q: My wife and I are invited to a poolside potluck dinner on a summer's hot day, held by a couple we ...
A: You are quite right about the host calling the shots for the menu. I have to say that for an ...
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| Dessert | 6/29/2008 |
Q: I was recently at my boyfriend's friends' house for dinner. I brought a dessert (lemon meringue ...
A: The bottom line is that the hostess acted correctly and you made the mistake. Having said that, what ...
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| wedding shower | 6/28/2008 |
Q: I wanted to have a church wedding shower for a friend in my home and only ask those in the church ...
A: No, you are not a jerk. It was also perfectly fine for the other bride to want to have her own ...
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| In laws not greeting when they come to my house | 6/27/2008 |
Q: What is the proper etiquette for greeting for a family to follow if they go to other familys homes? ...
A: Some people are naturally shy. Proper etiquette calls for people to introduce themselves to everyone ...
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| wedding shower | 6/27/2008 |
Q: I wanted to have a church wedding shower for a friend in my home and only ask those in the church ...
A: You were absolutely correct. It was your party. You control the guest list. Even if you asked for ...
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| wedding shower gifts | 6/26/2008 |
Q: I am invited to a wedding shower for my son and his fiance that is being hosted by her aunt and ...
A: Everyone invited to a shower is expected to bring a gift. Being family, you should know what the ...
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| College Graduation Announcements | 6/25/2008 |
Q: Mr. Jay Remer, Our son completed his Final Defense in May and will go through the formal university ...
A: Congratulations on your son's great accomplishment. It is absolutely appropriate to include the ...
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| job transfer | 6/25/2008 |
Q: I am applying for a position within my same company. Is it ok if I call the supervisor who will be ...
A: I would advise against calling the supervisor. First of all, what would the purpose of the call be? ...
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| Adoption Ceremony Dinner | 6/23/2008 |
Q: Invited to dinner following adoption ceremony of niece's child. Just attended and gifted at ...
A: I think you've done your bit as far as gifts go. I have a friend who adopted a child and the number ...
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| gift-giving protocol | 6/22/2008 |
Q: For many months, my husband has been in physical therapy rehab. He is about to be discharged, and ...
A: Heart-felt notes, hand written, are always very much appreciated. Obviously these people have made a ...
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| wedding invitation | 6/20/2008 |
Q: Nearly 3 months have passed since I split from a business partnership and I just received an ...
A: I would not read too much into this invitation. You may never know what the intent behind sending it ...
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| Graduation Gifts | 6/20/2008 |
Q: My son is graduating high school and is invited to over 10 graduation parties. Should he bring a ...
A: I do not think it is necessary or even advisable for high school students to give gifts to their ...
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| phrases | 6/19/2008 |
Q: where did the term "bar hopping" come from?
A: The term has its roots in the 19th century, beginning with the beer crawl. It is really a ...
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| Late Graduation Announcements | 6/19/2008 |
Q: I am a few weeks late sending out my high school graduations and I was wondering if it is all right ...
A: It is absolutely fine to include both logos on your announcement. Carefully word the text and make ...
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| introduction | 6/19/2008 |
Q: kindly give an example of how to introduce a lower staff member to the MD
A: You always state the name of the person of higher rank first. So in this case, you would say, "Dr. ...
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| Debut Party | 6/18/2008 |
Q: My 20 year old son has been invited to a friend's debut pre-party at an old money, very prestigious ...
A: I have been to a lot of debutante parties, but never to a pre-party. This sounds a bit ...
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| wedding seating | 6/17/2008 |
Q: Where do I sit my daughter's future mother-in-law at my son's wedding? Thanks.
A: I don't know how the tables are being arranged or who the guests are, but I am going to assume that ...
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| Entering and getting seated in a restaurant in the company of a lady | 6/17/2008 |
Q: Upon entering a restaurant what is the proper procedure for checking in at the reception desk or ...
A: The question is multifaceted, so I am going to address those specific questions you mentioned and ...
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| returning son's birthday gift | 6/16/2008 |
Q: my son just turned 3 and received a gift from my husband's brother and his wife brought to the party ...
A: I think we are getting somewhere now. I am glad that you have a 'great' relationship with MIL. This ...
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| stepson's graduation party | 6/16/2008 |
Q: My husband and I have been married for over 5 years my daughter finished high school last year and I ...
A: Who's in charge here? There are no rules as to whose extended family is or isn't invited. It's up to ...
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| party etiquette | 6/14/2008 |
Q: I have a family member who is having a graduation party for her daughter. They have invited over 100 ...
A: I quite agree with you in this particular case, as the invitations have already ben sent. Normally ...
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| High School Graduation | 6/14/2008 |
Q: My grandson who lives out of state sent a high school graduation invitation to my sister and her ...
A: Your answer to her question was absolutely correct. Her response was rude and disrespectful. She ...
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| retirement party | 6/13/2008 |
Q: My children are giving a retirement party for me. Should I be getting them a gift as a thank you? ...
A: Strictly speaking you do not need to buy them a gift, bit I think it would be appropriate. I love ...
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| returning son's birthday gift | 6/12/2008 |
Q: my son just turned 3 and received a gift from my husband's brother and his wife brought to the party ...
A: I figured there would be a follow up. This a complex issue. Of course you would have appreciated the ...
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| Dating a Recent Widower | 6/11/2008 |
Q: A man who I used to be in love with lost his wife the end of March. I sent a sympathy card and he ...
A: I meant to mention him in my first answer. Again, it depends on how his grieving is going. It sounds ...
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| Dating a Recent Widower | 6/11/2008 |
Q: A man who I used to be in love with lost his wife the end of March. I sent a sympathy card and he ...
A: There really are no hard and fast rules for this. I think after you have finished mourning the loss ...
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| anniversaries | 6/9/2008 |
Q: O.K. here's the outline. If my neice and her husband are having a wedding anniversary (not a party ...
A: Clearer, yes. There is never an inappropriate time to acknowledge such occasions. It's sort of like ...
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| Fiance Master Degree Graduation Gift | 6/9/2008 |
Q: My Fiance is 45 and graduating from the Industrial College of the Armed Forces (ICAF), War College ...
A: It looks like the ball is in your court. Your fiance gave you an answer but left the door open. I ...
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| Graduation announcements | 6/9/2008 |
Q: My son received his undergraduate degree with honors three weeks ago. (just received his final ...
A: Congratulations to your son. That is truly a great accomplishment. It is not too late to send out ...
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| business telephone manners | 6/7/2008 |
Q: I recently called a hair salon in my town to make an appointment to use a gift card. After a few ...
A: You are absolutely correct on two counts. One, the receptionist was rude, bordering on ...
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| introducing an unmarried couple | 6/6/2008 |
Q: My Mom falls over introductions when she introduces me (female daughter 60 unmarried) and my life ...
A: First, let me congratulate you for picking a life partner during the prime of your life! There is no ...
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| Graduation gifts | 6/6/2008 |
Q: Our son is graduating from high school. Our family has flown in from all over the country for this ...
A: In this case, there are no 'shoulds'. It's a kind of case by case scenario. Some people may want to ...
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| full dress on cruises | 6/5/2008 |
Q: At one time in our history, wearing full dress or white tie and tails on a cruise was expected. Now ...
A: Dress codes certainly have relaxed over the last couple of decades. There are no doubt a variety of ...
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| Graduation Gift Etiquette | 6/3/2008 |
Q: What would be the proper gift etiquette when you're invited to your boss's sons graduation open ...
A: From an etiquette viewpoint, it really doesn't matter who the invitation is for or from. The same ...
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| Graduation | 6/3/2008 |
Q: Hope you can help me. I can't decide to have some type of get together for my daughter's graduation ...
A: You do wait til the last minute, don't you? There is no dilemma here. You want to throw a party. You ...
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| Medical school announcement | 6/3/2008 |
Q: My cousin's wife just graduated from medical school and will start a pediatric residency. She just ...
A: Graduating from medical school in your late 40's is a whole lot different than graduating from high ...
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| gift giving | 6/2/2008 |
Q: The daughter of my husband's business partner is getting married. We are not invited to the ...
A: As I have said before, there is rarely an inappropriate time to give a gift. It is really up to you. ...
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| How to construct a message regarding monetary gift for wedding. | 6/2/2008 |
Q: My fiancé and I were getting married this 08-08-08 here in the Philippines. And we are having a hard ...
A: I completely understand your situation; however gifts are not mentioned on an invitation at all - ...
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| Help? | 6/1/2008 |
Q: My best female friend's daughter is expecting next month...and as a single man, never married, no ...
A: There is no recorded protocol or etiquette for this situation, so what we use is common sense. After ...
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| Graduation Invitation | 6/1/2008 |
Q: My husband and I received a graduation invitation from the grandaughter of a friend that we are no ...
A: Your husband is right in my view for two reasons. First of all, the invitation should have been sent ...
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| Grad Parties | 5/31/2008 |
Q: What is the gift-giving etiquette for graduation parties? Who would and who wouldn't bring a gift? ...
A: Giving gifts at graduations is much like giving gifts at other occasions. It is totally at the ...
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| How do I not invite someone to a party | 5/29/2008 |
Q: I have a rather delicate situation. I'm having a party and wish to invite my husband's ...
A: Great question!! You do not have to feel obligated to invite her at all. It's your party and you ...
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| Wedding etiquette | 5/28/2008 |
Q: A close friend is getting married on the same day as my brother. Even though she knows I will not be ...
A: You send your note of regret to the parents, as they were the ones who issued the invitation and are ...
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| Political Emails and Responses | 5/28/2008 |
Q: I have another one for you. My brother has not been returning my calls and emails for about a week ...
A: Here is my take on the situation. If you really enjoy having e-mail conversations with your brother, ...
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| Boss wedding | 5/28/2008 |
Q: My boss is getting married and having destination wedding. Nonoe from the office is invited. Do I ...
A: In my opinion, if you were not invited, a gift from you is not necessary; however, it would perhaps ...
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| invitation | 5/28/2008 |
Q: A long time girlfriend and I had decided to have a girls' poker nite since we don't see each other ...
A: To be honest with you, the hostess generally controls the guest list. However, since you both ...
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| Getting Thank yous | 5/28/2008 |
Q: We always send gifts (sometimes money) for Xmas, Birthdays etc. to My niece, age 2l, living 4 hours ...
A: Her mother needs to tell her in no uncertain terms that thank-you notes are absolutely necessary. At ...
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| invitations | 5/27/2008 |
Q: When do you use an 'at home' invitation? And how much information do you write on it? Can I use it ...
A: I believe what you are referring to is an 'at home' card. Such cards contain the name and address of ...
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| Correcting people | 5/25/2008 |
Q: Is it bad manners to correct an older person or someone in a higher position if he/she has made a ...
A: I am on your side here. Just because someone is older, doesn't mean they're always correct. You can ...
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| Graduation Gift Giving | 5/24/2008 |
Q: I am a high school chemistry teacher in my third year of teaching at a boarding school. Students ...
A: Sorry to take so long in answering this question, but was called out of town suddenly. Thanks for ...
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| manners | 5/24/2008 |
Q: If I enter an office or a room is it impolite to say "Good morning" (e.g.)? I was brought up to do ...
A: You were brought up correctly. Saying good morning is the polite thing to do when entering the ...
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| Etiquette | 5/23/2008 |
Q: I was out at lunch with a friend and another woman who lives very close by but whom I don't want to ...
A: My goodness, you have a real knack for attracting odd people. Again, you lead yourself right into ...
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| Etiquette | 5/23/2008 |
Q: Recently someone who I believe should have known better asked me out but asked could he come over ...
A: It's hard really to know where to start with this one, perhaps with accepting the invitation to ...
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| Protocal | 5/23/2008 |
Q: What is the protocol for sending out High School Senior announcements - two weeks prior, a month?? ...
A: Announcements go out two weeks after the ceremony. Invitations go out two weeks prior. It is ...
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| sympathy cards | 5/22/2008 |
Q: What family members should be included in cards of sympathy? My mother recently passed away and ...
A: However unfair this may seem, there are those who feel there is a formality of writing sympathy ...
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| Monetary Wedding Gift | 5/21/2008 |
Q: The President of our company's daughter is getting married. I have been invited to the wedding ...
A: This is not a contest. Gifts are given according to the relationship the person has with the ...
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| Childrens Birthday parties | 5/11/2008 |
Q: Against my better judgement I took my 3 year old to a birthday party for a 5 year old friend of the ...
A: My sincerest apologies. I had answered this question before I went on vacation but the answer ...
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| Bar Mitzvah RSVP Etiquette | 5/9/2008 |
Q: How do I respond when and ivitation is addressed to "Mr. & Mrs.John Doe" and the response card comes ...
A: How rude can some people be! I'm afraid you'll have to phone them and explain that due to space and ...
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| adoption | 5/8/2008 |
Q: We are adopting our toddler grandson & want to give a thank you gift to the worker who has been ...
A: Any time you are giving a gift, your financial circumstances must always be considered. What's ...
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| Graduation Invitations | 5/8/2008 |
Q: Please tell me how do I address an invitation to a couple that are not married and their children? ...
A: To address an unmarried couple and their children, the order is Mr. (full name) and Ms.(full name) ...
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| Graduation Ceremony Etiquette | 5/7/2008 |
Q: My husband is graduationg from Graduate School. When I graduated, I received a bouquet of flowers. ...
A: I am a traditionalist. I advise that you give a monogrammed sterling silver pen and pencil set, gold ...
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| Return Address Labels for Graduation Announcements | 5/6/2008 |
Q: Is it proper to use a return address label for a graduation announcement or should the return ...
A: If you are hand writing the envelope it would be proper to hand write all of it, as opposed to just ...
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| introduction | 5/6/2008 |
Q: What if your partner has invited people she know over to your house for a get together. Should the ...
A: It would be correct protocol for the person who has invited the guests to make the introductions. If ...
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| college graduation gifts | 5/6/2008 |
Q: My boyfriend's daughter is graduating from college - what would be an appropriate gift from me? We ...
A: As I have answered in the past, the gift you decide to give depends on your financial situation and ...
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| Proper title for Mayor letter | 5/6/2008 |
Q: Hello - I have to send a letter to a mayor of a city - what is the proper way to address him in the ...
A: I am going to assume that you are in the US. It would be 'Dear Mr. Mayor' or 'Dear Madam Mayor'. On ...
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| returning of phone calls | 5/5/2008 |
Q: I find it hurtful when people don't return phone calls in a reasonable time frame. I've had one ...
A: It helps me to see the situation more clearly. If these people have a habit to behaving this way, ...
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| funeral thank you notes from wife | 5/5/2008 |
Q: Who should receive a thank you note? Flower senders? Funeral service guests? Sympathy cards? ...
A: Everyone loves a hand written thank-you card. However, it can be overwhelming, especially during a ...
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| Colleague's Good Morning Gesture | 5/5/2008 |
Q: Every single morning - *every single morning* - a colleague of mine comes into my office and says ...
A: I doubt Emily Post has any tips on such a matter, but I will give it my best shot. I can picture ...
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| graduation announcements | 5/4/2008 |
Q: What is the correct way to enclose the enter envelope on graduation announcements? Do we just leave ...
A: To be honest with you, I am not sure what you are referring to. However, I am going to guess that ...
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| returning of phone calls | 5/4/2008 |
Q: I find it hurtful when people don't return phone calls in a reasonable time frame. I've had one ...
A: Proper etiquette calls for phone calls to be returned within 48 hours. However, the way this is ...
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| SIgning Cadrds | 5/4/2008 |
Q: My wife's Grandchildren, (I am her second husband) on their birthdays, she signs the cards, Grandpaw ...
A: I understand your point of view. But in this case, your wife's "traditional" approach is probably ...
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| panty hose color for mother of the groom | 5/4/2008 |
Q: I am wearing a black skirt and White dressy top for the wedding( the bridesmaid colors are black and ...
A: Although this is not an etiquette question, I always have an opinion on stylish dressing. In my ...
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| House warming gifts | 5/3/2008 |
Q: Family member recently moved into their 2nd home. We are going there for a birthday party. Do you ...
A: It is up to you to decide. If you want to bring a birthday gift or a house warming gift, it is your ...
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| graduation party for 3 friends | 5/3/2008 |
Q: We are hosting a H.S. Grad party for three seniors that grew up together on the same street. Some ...
A: You do not worry about getting such a message across. Strictly speaking no one is obligated to bring ...
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| Addressing Graduation Invitations | 5/3/2008 |
Q: Is it improper to address the outer envelope for graduation invitations using a computer ( my son's ...
A: It is always nice to hand write invitation envelopes. Why not let him stuff them and you address ...
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| family manners | 5/2/2008 |
Q: My partner says that when I come home from being at work all day that I shouldn't say "Hi how are ...
A: This is well outside of strict etiquette, but because of my interest in human dynamics,I will give ...
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| family manners | 5/2/2008 |
Q: My partner says that when I come home from being at work all day that I shouldn't say "Hi how are ...
A: WOW! Thanks for asking this amazing question. This is going to be the subject of my next column. ...
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| DIVORCE OF SIBLING AND INVITATONS | 5/2/2008 |
Q: HERE'S THE SITUATION, MY HUSBANDS BROTHER AND HIS WIFE OF 30 YRS ARE DIVORCING. IT IS NOT A MUTUAL ...
A: You are right about the touchy situation. However, this upcoming event is all about your son, not ...
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| DIVORCE OF SIBLING AND INVITATONS | 5/2/2008 |
Q: HERE'S THE SITUATION, MY HUSBANDS BROTHER AND HIS WIFE OF 30 YRS ARE DIVORCING. IT IS NOT A MUTUAL ...
A: This is really case of human dynamics. If there is real bitterness going on in this divorce, this ...
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| Graduation Dinner | 5/2/2008 |
Q: Our daughter is graduating from college in another state. We are all flying in for the graduation. ...
A: Strict etiquette calls for the host to pay for the dinner. In this situation, I suggest that your ...
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| Plastic or real plates | 5/1/2008 |
Q: My son got married and had a formal reception, the bride is from another state. We are now hosting ...
A: It's really up to you. Having said that I would lean towards paper and plastic rather than going to ...
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| GRADUATION ETIQUETTE | 5/1/2008 |
Q: A FRIEND OF MINE WAS INVITED TO HER NEPHEW'S GRADUATION CEREMONY WHERE THERE IS A $5 CHARGE FOR EACH ...
A: It is generally up to the family who has obtained the tickets for a graduation ceremony to ...
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| apparel | 4/30/2008 |
Q: A recent wedding invitation states the following. 50s theme black and white apparel What ...
A: What this means is that you and your wife should wear black and white clothes that would have been ...
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| Accepting money from friends | 4/30/2008 |
Q: I am currently going through a divorce and have 3 young children. My 8 girlfriends all pitched in ...
A: First of all, tell your mother for me that she gives good advice! You are indeed blessed to have ...
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| High School Graduation Tea | 4/30/2008 |
Q: Some of my friends are giving my daughter a graduation tea. As her mother, do I bring a present to ...
A: Please remember that gifts should be neither expected nor required at any function. They are at the ...
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| College Graduation Announcement/Invitation | 4/30/2008 |
Q: We recently received (3-1/2 weeks before the graduation ceremony) what I would term an invitation to ...
A: You have landed yourself in a situation of bad planning on the part of your friend. I doubt there ...
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| re college graduation | 4/29/2008 |
Q: My daughter who is graduating first in the family from college on May 10 from out of state, then ...
A: First of all, congratulations to your daughter for this tremendous accomplishment. I am so glad you ...
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| Who to Invite to Graduation Open House | 4/29/2008 |
Q: Where do you draw the line with inviting your co-workers to your child's graduation open house when ...
A: You can invite as many people as you want to the open house. Remember the guiding principle. There ...
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| Neighbor's kids invite themselves over | 4/29/2008 |
Q: I have some very nice neighbors, with some fairly 'pushy' children. We have a privacy fence, ...
A: This an all too common problem. As I see it, you have two choices. Either speak with their mothers ...
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| Thank you notes | 4/28/2008 |
Q: I had a baby shower recently and had about 30 guests. Many people brought gifts, but some did not. ...
A: There's really nothing to debate here. How can you send a thank-you note for something you haven't ...
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| graduation announcements | 4/28/2008 |
Q: My daughter is graduating from high school. should she send announcements with pictures to her ...
A: You have put a new twist to a question I have answered before by throwing in the picture. I still ...
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| Which side to walk | 4/28/2008 |
Q: At a recent high school prom, I noticed that the young men entered the stage for the Grand March ...
A: You are correct half of the time. When walking on the street, the man always walks on the street ...
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| Party Invitations | 4/28/2008 |
Q: When inviting a single person to a party at which most invitees will be couples, must you tell ...
A: If you want your single guest to be able to bring a date, the add'and Guest' onto the invitation. ...
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| Monetary Thank you | 4/28/2008 |
Q: I recently spent a week's vacation with my brother and family in Australia. There was three in our ...
A: You did nothing wrong. Your brother would be wise to accept the give graciously and say 'thank-you'. ...
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| Extended family member of divorce | 4/28/2008 |
Q: I have been divorced for over 4 years and have 2 daughters 18 & 21. My daughters and I do not like ...
A: I can see why this is causing you and your daughters a lot of stress. Family dynamics can be quite ...
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| JOINT GRADUATION PARTY | 4/28/2008 |
Q: A FRIEND'S SON IS HAVING A JOINT GRADUATION PARTY WITH HIS COUSIN. SHOULD WE BRING 1 OR 2 GIFTS?
A: Giving gifts is completely at the discretion of the giver. Having said that, if you are planning to ...
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| High School Announcements | 4/28/2008 |
Q: I was wondering if it is appropriate for my son to send announcements to his school friends(who are ...
A: The answer is no. It is not necessary to send announcements to classmates. Announcements are usually ...
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| monster in law | 4/27/2008 |
Q: Is their any ettiquete in ettiquete land on sending the grooms parents an invitation to the wedding? ...
A: You definitely should receive an invitation. Perhaps all along she was planning for your son to hand ...
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| graduation announcement | 4/27/2008 |
Q: I am graduating from university and am sending out my announcements. I am also very excited about ...
A: The answer is yes. The wording could go something like this and you can design the announcement ...
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| Graduation cards vs. gifts | 4/27/2008 |
Q: What is the proper ediquette for a college graduate gift? I always send high school graduates ...
A: It all depends on your relationship with the graduate. Money is always appropriate as a gift as the ...
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| Ref: question | 4/27/2008 |
Q: Good day, Lets say you are just starting out in business and trying to network with high profile men ...
A: You are on the right track by being genuine. You will find that all people, men or women, rich or ...
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| dress for Celebration of Life | 4/26/2008 |
Q: My daughters best freind (7 years old) passed away from Cancer this week. What do you wear to a ...
A: It is so sad when a young child passes away. Your daughter must be devastated. My deepest ...
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| daughter's chiristening | 4/26/2008 |
Q: we have been planning my daughter's christening since february. We have a lot of family members some ...
A: There are two issues here. One is the desire to have a family photo and the other is the RSVP issue. ...
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| cash gifts to college graduates | 4/25/2008 |
Q: I have two nephews graduating college in early May. I will not be attending either ceremony. I want ...
A: Cash gifts are dependant on your financial situation. College graduations are more significant than ...
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| RE: Mother invited my aunt. | 4/25/2008 |
Q: I invited my Mom and Dad to come to Hong Kong on a holiday and they will be staying at my home for 5 ...
A: Once again, you are correct. I don't understand your mother's line of reasoning at all, nor your ...
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| graduation gift | 4/24/2008 |
Q: My nephew has graduated from 4 yrs of university and his parents are throwing him a big party, Do I ...
A: The answer is that it really is up to you. There is never any obligation to give someone a gift. A ...
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| Gift giving | 4/24/2008 |
Q: I have two nephews (both out of state) that are graduating from college. They are both going on the ...
A: And congratulations to your two nephews. This marks an important milestone in their lives. ...
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| RE: Mother invited my aunt. | 4/24/2008 |
Q: I invited my Mom and Dad to come to Hong Kong on a holiday and they will be staying at my home for 5 ...
A: You are absolutely right as far as your mother should have consulted you. She did not show you ...
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| graduation party | 4/23/2008 |
Q: I am having a high school graduation party for my son at a local restaurant. I am paying the bill. ...
A: The wording would go something like this. Mrs. Jane Doe cordially invites you attend a dinner in ...
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| Announcement vs invitation... | 4/22/2008 |
Q: In the past I have had AN ANNOUNCEMNT of a party to be planned, because they needed input as to the ...
A: What you are referring to is a "Save the Date Card". For this occasion, three to four weeks notice ...
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| 50th Anniversary | 4/21/2008 |
Q: My friend is celebrating her 50th Anniversary and will wear a long dress to a 2 p.m. reception. She ...
A: It is improper to wear a long dress at 2 p.m. However, in this day and age, people do odd things. In ...
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| Sister in-law wants gift that was given back | 4/21/2008 |
Q: I don't know what to do. My parents-in-law gave me a ring shortly after our wedding (though not a ...
A: You have been put in the middle of a very difficult situation. Strictly speaking, your in-laws made ...
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| Break up question | 4/21/2008 |
Q: What do I do with jewelry from my ex-boyfriend of 9 month's during dating? Do I give it back or keep ...
A: Gifts given come with no strings. You are entitled to keep the jewelry and either wear it, sell it, ...
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| high school graduation invitation | 4/21/2008 |
Q: should you send invitations to members of the same graduating class (ex sons friends)
A: The answer is no. They are already going to be at the graduation, so that would be completely ...
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| Birthday Gifts | 4/21/2008 |
Q: We are having a 1st birthday party for our triplets. Due to the crazy amount of toys and clothes ...
A: Strictly speaking it is poor form to mention anything about gifts on any invitation unless it's ...
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| master's degree announcements? | 4/21/2008 |
Q: I did not send out announcements for my bachelor's degree because my mother thought it was tacky. ...
A: There is absolutely no reason not to send out an announcement for this great accomplishment. I ...
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| graduation | 4/20/2008 |
Q: Does the female buy the boutineer for her date to grad. Thanks Kayt
A: In a word, 'NO'. Even in this world today, where feminism has a stronghold, this is a place where ...
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| Announcement Sending Time | 4/18/2008 |
Q: Jay: I've researched and found that it is proper timing to send out college graduation ...
A: I will answer the second question first. I still stand by tradition. The parents send out the ...
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| Bosses Wedding | 4/18/2008 |
Q: My boss is getting married. I'm acquainted with both him and his fiance'(we've had a few double ...
A: Whether or not you were invited to the wedding has no bearing on your decision to give a wedding ...
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| Graduation Announcement - Who is the sender? | 4/18/2008 |
Q: The inside envelope on the college graduation envelope should be addressed to the person as if you ...
A: Bottom line answer is it's up to you. Traditionally, however, the parents are the senders of the ...
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| entertaining/serving platters | 4/16/2008 |
Q: I have a very pretty silver plate serving platter I received as a wedding gift. I am hosting ...
A: In brief, food may go directly onto the silver plated platter. The only foods that really react with ...
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| invitation address | 4/15/2008 |
Q: Our country club that technically my husband is a member of - but it is a family club - addresses ...
A: The country club send mailings to its members. Your husband is the member, so that is why they send ...
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| Wedding gifts - US to Canada | 4/15/2008 |
Q: Jay, My American son is getting married this fall to a wonderful Canadian woman and they will live ...
A: I live in Canada myself and am a US citizen so I completely understand the situation. First of all, ...
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| Return address labels for grad. whn childs name is different | 4/14/2008 |
Q: My daughter is graduating from High School we are working on her graduation announcements and I'm ...
A: First of all, let me congratulate your daughter for graduating from high school. This would be a ...
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| Apologies | 4/14/2008 |
Q: I did something to upset my friend, who is my neighbor and co-worker, while she and her family were ...
A: I am happy to give you my insight here now that I have the details. I agree with your friends. This ...
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| Wedding Shower... | 4/13/2008 |
Q: I'm a brides maid in my friends upcoming wedding, do I still by her a shower gift? Thank you Jay for ...
A: In a word, yes. You are, of course, never obliged to buy a shower gift, but being a bridesmaid ...
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| Daughters graduation | 4/13/2008 |
Q: My 30 year old daughter, who has returned to school after having a child, is graduating with her BA. ...
A: I am delighted to answer all of your questions. No need to be sorry. I would be doing this if I ...
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| Apologies | 4/12/2008 |
Q: I did something to upset my friend, who is my neighbor and co-worker, while she and her family were ...
A: This one is another one asked of me which falls outside of the strict etiquette or protocol realm. ...
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| Daughters graduation | 4/12/2008 |
Q: My 30 year old daughter, who has returned to school after having a child, is graduating with her BA. ...
A: At this time of year, I get so many graduation questions. The irony of this for me is that I never ...
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| Graduation Announcements | 4/12/2008 |
Q: My daughter will be graduating from college soon. What is the correct way to write the announcement ...
A: This is a very sensitive issue which in fact falls outside of strict etiquette or protocol. However, ...
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| Daughters graduation | 4/12/2008 |
Q: My 30 year old daughter, who has returned to school after having a child, is graduating with her BA. ...
A: First of all, let me congratulate your daughter for a real accomplishment. And give yourselves a pat ...
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| wedding attendance | 4/12/2008 |
Q: My daughter is one of the bridesmaids at my nephew's wedding. We, her parents, however, have not ...
A: Technically speaking, without an invitation, you should not go to the wedding. It occurs to me that ...
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| Graduation Announcements | 4/12/2008 |
Q: My daughter will be graduating from college soon. What is the correct way to write the announcement ...
A: The way to do this is as follows. Ms. Jane Doe, daughter of Mrs. Cathy Smith and the late Mr. John ...
|
| Bringing an uninvited dog to your host's home | 4/11/2008 |
Q: My Mother-In-Law insists on bringing her dog to my 1200sf apartment when she stays overnight. This, ...
A: Let me say that this falls outside of strict etiquette, however, I am happy to share my thoughts ...
|
| How to address a sympathy card | 4/11/2008 |
Q: A neighbor's husband passed way, do I address the card to her and family or "the family of . . . . . ...
A: You address the card to Mrs. John Doe and family. Addressing it to the family of the deceased would ...
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| house warming party | 4/11/2008 |
Q: i would like to give my daughter and son-inlaw a house warming party. They have just bought a house ...
A: The simple answer to this is that yes, by all means have a party for them at your home. But, an ...
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| Shower/Wedding Gifts | 4/10/2008 |
Q: I recently attended by nephew's fiancee's bridal shower and shortly thereafter, their wedding. I ...
A: You and your sisters are dead on right. It is absolutely not acceptable to send canned thank-you ...
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| college graduation invitation vs announcment | 4/10/2008 |
Q: Daughter's college graduation in NH coming up soon. It's out-of-state and scheduled outside no ...
A: By the way, we're practically neighbors. I live in St. Andrews, NB, Canada. At any rate, this is ...
|
| 6pm weddings in the South | 4/10/2008 |
Q: Is a 6 pm wedding in the South (NC) considered to be "black tie" if the invitation does not specify?
A: The answer to your question, in a word, is no. Unless the style of dress is indicated clearly on the ...
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| Wedding invitations for singles | 4/10/2008 |
Q: A friend is sending out wedding invites and during a phone conversation stated that since I was ...
A: I don't really see a question here. This is more of a venting. And I have no problem with that, but ...
|
| how do I approch a coworker about bad habits | 4/9/2008 |
Q: My question is, how do you approach someone that shares office equipment and kitchen area that ...
A: The answer to your question is very straight forward. And as long as your intention is not to ...
|
| Early Graduation from High School | 4/8/2008 |
Q: This is a topic I did not encounter with my other children. My daughter cane home and informed us ...
A: Know that you are doing the right thing. It's so nice for people like you who make the effort to ...
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| Early Graduation from High School | 4/8/2008 |
Q: This is a topic I did not encounter with my other children. My daughter cane home and informed us ...
A: I can relate to this because the same thing happened to me in college. I was finished my studies a ...
|
| college graduaton announcements | 4/8/2008 |
Q: Technically, who sends out the announcements the student or the parents? ANSWER: Dear Penny, Thanks ...
A: Don't apologize. I am happy to work with you to ensure that you are comfortable in doing the right ...
|
| privacy fence | 4/8/2008 |
Q: If there is a shared privacy fence, should I remove the old fence before putting up the new? The ...
A: Although this falls outside the guidelines of real etiquette, I feel compelled to answer you because ...
|
| wedding shower gifts | 4/7/2008 |
Q: Recently sent a shower gift to couple who will marry in June. The thank you note said the groom is ...
A: To clarify, you stated that you sent a 'shower gift'. That is not the same as a wedding gift. So ...
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| addressing wedding invitations | 4/7/2008 |
Q: I have all my wedding invitations sealed stamped and ready to go. I desired and printed them myself. ...
A: Already stamped, Yikes! We need to move quickly on this one. Absolutely, you must put 'and Guest' on ...
|
| 50th wedding Anniversary | 4/7/2008 |
Q: Is it etiquette to ask for donation of____ per person on your 50th wedding anniversary invitation or ...
A: Simply stated, this is in very poor taste. The rule of thumb is this: if you are going to host a ...
|
| Rsvp to Bar Mitzvah | 4/7/2008 |
Q: My daughter received her first invite to a Bar Mitzvah. On the RSVP card, it reads, "We look forward ...
A: There are many different variations on RSVP cards. The most important point is to make sure to ...
|
| college graduaton announcements | 4/7/2008 |
Q: Technically, who sends out the announcements the student or the parents? ANSWER: Dear Penny, Thanks ...
A: It does help to clarify your concern. The announcement can read Mr and Mrs George Jones are proud to ...
|
| college graduaton announcements | 4/6/2008 |
Q: Technically, who sends out the announcements the student or the parents?
A: I have just completed an column on the matter of graduation invitations and announcements, but ...
|
| What should a Boss Say or Not | 4/5/2008 |
Q: I think I know the answer to this but I asked my boss how he was doing since he recently had been ...
A: , Thanks for asking this question. It opens up an interesting topic, one which I shall use in one of ...
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| JOB ETIQUETTE | 4/4/2008 |
Q: I AM A TEACHER. I AM ON A 4 MAN/WOMAN TEAM. EVERY ONCE IN A WHILE WE'LL GET TOGETHER AND FIX ...
A: This does rings thing more into focus. If your group is having breakfast together, bring food enough ...
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| JOB ETIQUETTE | 4/4/2008 |
Q: I AM A TEACHER. I AM ON A 4 MAN/WOMAN TEAM. EVERY ONCE IN A WHILE WE'LL GET TOGETHER AND FIX ...
A: I need more information before I can answer this question. What is the venue? It sounds like a ...
|
| Extending greetings | 4/4/2008 |
Q: What is the current(or US) protocol on greeting? My heritage is British and etiquette as it was ...
A: Your upbringing taught you well. I might add that there is no difference at the workplace. Good ...
|
| Gifts | 4/1/2008 |
Q: A dear friend has given my newborn outfits that I absolutley hate. I can't imagine having to put ...
A: In this case, your dear friend has overstepped her bounds. Personally, I would send a nice thank-you ...
|
| door opening/holding etiquette | 4/1/2008 |
Q: When a man and a woman are walking together approaching a door, especially a narrower one, should ...
A: I think common sense dictates the answer to this question. Personally, the way I handle this ...
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| door opening/holding etiquette | 4/1/2008 |
Q: When a man and a woman are walking together approaching a door, especially a narrower one, should ...
A: I side with you and your friends on this one. From an etiquette point of view, today's rules are ...
|
| table manners | 3/31/2008 |
Q: I am a stepparent to a 10year old. We only have her for 2days a week, but she has the worst table ...
A: First, let me say that I grew up with a step mother so I understand how this situation can be ...
|
| dinner party invites | 3/31/2008 |
Q: I am invited to my mother-inlaw's for a sit down dinner. At the last minute, my sister and her ...
A: First of all, stop fuming. We're talking about a dinner party, not a botched open heart surgery. ...
|
| Send gift for event or keep until you see the person? | 3/31/2008 |
Q: I have an ongoing battle with relatives - they like to keep the gifts for my daughter (we only give ...
A: This is more of a sensitive area for you than for your husband or your daughter. After all, you most ...
|
| Uninvited Houseguests | 3/30/2008 |
Q: I have a cousin that lives 6 hours away, he will show up anyday, anytime with his 7 children and ...
A: Unfortunately it sounds like you have become begrudgingly an enabler in this situation. This ...
|
| Pouring wine | 3/29/2008 |
Q: Is it improper to pour wine into your guest's glass that still contains wine?
A: Simply stated, no, it is not improper to pour wine into your guest's wine glass if it still contains ...
|
| Wedding invitations for singles | 3/27/2008 |
Q: A friend is sending out wedding invites and during a phone conversation stated that since I was ...
A: I have to agree with you and I have to agree with your friend at the same time. First of all, the ...
|
| College Graduation Announcements | 3/27/2008 |
Q: I will be graduating in May and I am preparing to send out my announcements. I'm going to send them ...
A: First let me congratulate you on your accomplishment. Secondly, let me thank-you for taking the time ...
|
| Small Dinner Seating | 3/27/2008 |
Q: My wife and I were discussing (not arguing)how to seat ourselves when we go to dinner with only us ...
A: The answer really depends on who the third party is. If it's a woman, she should on your right and ...
|
| car seating etiquette | 3/27/2008 |
Q: What is the proper way of seating in a car when there is men and women going on a ride altogether.Is ...
A: For couples going on a road trip together, there is no right or wrong way to arrange the seating, no ...
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| Send gift for event or keep until you see the person? | 3/26/2008 |
Q: I have an ongoing battle with relatives - they like to keep the gifts for my daughter (we only give ...
A: I must agree with you here. Perhaps if your parents put themselves in the shoes of a 7 year old ...
|
| etiquette regarding return address labels | 3/26/2008 |
Q: Is it acceptable to put only the last name on return address labels (along with the address of ...
A: I am certainly guilty of doing this myself, usually because I am in a rush. However, in a formal ...
|
| Phone call to confirm plans | 3/25/2008 |
Q: I was recently asked by my niece, who was about to deliver her second child, if I would be "on ...
A: You have asked an excellent question and one which I can relate to as well. There are many factors ...
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