Today is the day to be politcally inactive.
Mrs. Zulkey.com On False Advertising
Dear Mrs. Zulkey.com,
I have been invited to a large birthday party for a friend who I have not
known for a very long time, but the friend is closer than just an acquaintance
The invitation reads "No gifts." Does that really mean no gifts,
or some gifts?
If it helps, the party is being held at a restaurant, not a house, and the guest of honor is a male.
Sincerely,
Partying in Pensacola
Dear Partygoer,
This "no gifts" thing trips everyone up, so you have plenty of company.
Your well-meaning host is telling you that it's not all about presents. But
when it's your birthday, let's face it, if it isn't about the presents, what's
the point?
One time I, a dyed-in-the-wool rule follower obeyed these instructions. What
a huge mistake. When I saw the gift table laden with presents I knew I was
in trouble. What, I thought later, if the guest of honor didn't know about
the no-gifts policy. Would I get credit for being obedient? Hardly.
So, what to do? Bring a little something. What, you ask? Giving to men is
a hundred times harder than giving to women. Very few men like anything frivolous.
What most of them would really like is cash, but that's for his Grandma to
slip him in his birthday card. The next best thing, then, would probably be
liquor. It's neither inspired nor personal but given that your relationship
is not especially close, it will do. You can put it in a pretty wine bag,
but he won't care about that.
Technically, you'll be flouting the rule but I assure you, the birthday boy
won't be offended by your gesture.
Mrs. Zulkey.com can answer your questions about etiquette, love, home decorating,
shopping, golf, cars, money, you name it. Send
her a question, why don't you?