With the cost of weddings and receptions these days, it’s hard to believe that this kind of problem still arises. The question is: how would you handle it? Read on…
Dear Wedding Guru:
“I understand that emergencies arise and sometimes guests are simply unable to attend a wedding to which they have responded positively. What I don’t understand is those people who don’t show up and then say nothing about it… or those who say nothing and don’t send a gift. What’s the right way to handle the no-shows?” — No Sympathy For No-Shows
Dear No Sympathy:
I agree. It boggles my mind how people can be so rude as to RVSP “yes” and then never show up to the wedding — and never provide an explanation. I wouldn’t blame you for feeling really annoyed and even to be curt, if given the opportunity. At the very least, the no-show owes you an explanation and, as far as I’m concerned, a gift!
That said, it’s entirely appropriate to call the person and ask them what happened. You should at least know why they didn’t make it when they said they would — especially since you paid for their seat (and perhaps their guest’s, if they were entitled to a plus-one). Regardless of the reason, you deserved a phone call and an apology. So, my advice? Confront them (provided it feels right to you), learn from their folly, forgive — and never do it yourself.
Have a wedding question? Write to me at judy@hvmag.com
