Let’s start with: When you receive a written (even emailed) invitation with “RSVP” written on it, it means you are to reply as to whether or not you will attend the event. It means you will make a serious commitment either way. This is so the host may plan the amount of food and beverages accordingly.
Yep, I’m on my own special kind of rampage here. Before I spent a lot of time and effort (not to mention money) on the preparations for a gathering at my home in December, I requested, on no less than 70 original and uniquely-created invitations, the simple courtesy of an RSVP.
Six days before the event, exactly 20 had responded. So what happened to the other 50 invitation recipients? Did they not have a mother at home when they were growing up who attempted to teach them proper etiquette? Has our culture become so impolite that it’s now OK to ignore a sincere request to get together to socialize face-to-face?
A few more called to tell me they’d be attending during that final week. But on party night, only half of those who had given me a firm “Yes” actually showed up. So what’s with THAT?
Now I know that “things happen,” but it only takes a few seconds to call or email or even text the change of plans. I’m whining here because I prepared and cooked for a conservatively-estimated 50, and 26 ended up walking through the door.
The past two weeks at my house have been leftover hell, but it’s finally all gone, and I’m now debating the future of my annual Christmas bash. After 29 years, I’m wondering if holiday parties have gone the way of so many other once-enjoyable traditions.
Like thank-you notes.