Each Wednesday, we tackle wedding etiquette. At times, it’s a reader question or one from a colleague, friend or family member and other times we’ll cover a popular issue. (Note: Questions may be edited for clarity and brevity.)
Question: My cousin is getting married and I’ve been invited to the wedding and reception. We were pretty close until a couple of years ago, but don’t really hang out anymore and we don’t have much contact outside of the occasional family functions. Do I have to go to my cousin’s wedding?
Answer: If you were still close, my advice would be to attend the wedding. Also, if you are trying to close the gap in your relationship, it would be a good symbolic gesture. However, if neither of those things is true, send your regrets on the R.S.V.P. card, then send along a nice gift and your well wishes for a long and happy marriage. Relationships change as we grow and mature, and that’s fine, but a gift and nice note go a long way towards keeping things pleasant at family gatherings.
Do you have a solution to share or a wedding etiquette question? Respond in the comments or email Melanie@MyNewOrleans.com.
