DEAR MISS MANNERS: I was invited to a “sprinkle” party for the mother of a bride. I thought sprinkle parties were for women having their second or more babies, but this group is asking for a donation to pamper this woman.
I am a little turned off with the whole idea. Am I rude for not going or contributing? The woman is a friend of mine. I have gone to a shower for her daughter, with a gift, and plan on giving another gift for the wedding. A party to pamper the mother of the bride just seems crazy to me. Not in my budget.
GENTLE READER: Although Miss Manners understands that the reason for inventing the “sprinkle party” may have been to de-emphasize gift-giving, rather than emphasize it, it all sounds to her like another way to soak the family and friends.
It is also an excellent example of why she objects to amateurs inventing their own etiquette. As with any invitation, you may attend or not as you wish -- and as with any invitation, you may not cite Miss Manners’ objection to the party itself as the reason for refusing.