DEAR MISS MANNERS: I sent a registry item to a soon-to-be bride. (They are only having a small celebration. I am not attending, as I am COVID-vulnerable.) The store confirmed delivery.
Is it inappropriate to call the mother of the bride to ensure that the bride received the gift? Porch pirates abound!
GENTLE READER: As do shiftless brides. But Miss Manners admires your presumption of good faith.
If a reasonable amount of time goes by and you have not received thanks -- and you have other reasons to contact the mother, besides checking up on the bride -- then yes, you may casually mention your fears. As long as you are prepared for the bevy of excuses that may follow.
(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.)