DEAR MISS MANNERS: We have been invited to a number of weddings that were supposed to occur over the past few months. Because of the pandemic, the brides and grooms are still getting married, but not having large gatherings or receptions.
We want your advice on what to do in these situations. Should we send a gift to arrive around the time the wedding would have been, or should we wait to see if they have a future reception? Or are we not obligated to send a gift at all?
GENTLE READER: Nobody is actually obligated to send a present, rendering moot any further disclaimer about the timing of the delivery of said present. Gracious people send wedding presents because they want a symbolic way of showing that they care about the people involved.
Never mind. Miss Manners does not mean to get caught up in technicalities. If you wish to send a present, now would be a good time. The residual shipping delays caused by the recent pandemic will, in any case, ensure that it does not arrive immediately.
(Please send your questions to Miss Manners at her website, www.missmanners.com; to her email, dearmissmanners@gmail.com; or through postal mail to Miss Manners, Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.)