When Guests Ignore Your Food Rules - A Guide to Etiquette
Key Highlights :
When it comes to hosting a party, there are certain rules that need to be followed in order to ensure that everyone is comfortable and safe. This is especially true if you have a child with food allergies, as you need to be extra vigilant about what food is allowed. Unfortunately, sometimes guests may ignore your requests and bring food that you asked them not to. How do you respond in a polite and effective manner?
When guests ignore your food rules, it can be difficult to know how to respond. The best way to handle the situation is to politely explain the situation to them in private. You can explain that the food they brought contains allergens that could cause a reaction in your child, and that you would prefer if they didn't bring it. If they are insistent on bringing the food, then you can simply explain that you won't be serving it.
In addition to food rules, there are also etiquette rules that need to be followed when it comes to communication. For example, when you receive an out-of-office reply or voicemail message that says, "I will get back to you at my earliest convenience," it can be interpreted as meaning that the recipient will call when it is convenient for them, not necessarily when it is convenient for you. The best way to phrase this type of message is to promise to return the call as soon as possible, as this gives the hope that the recipient will be making a greater effort.
Finally, there is the question of using a service such as a greeting card company to send a personalized handwritten note. Although this is not the same as writing a note yourself, Miss Manners grudgingly admits that this form of handwritten note is still more gracious than a form card.
No matter what the situation, it is important to always be polite and courteous. If you follow these simple tips, you can ensure that you handle any situation involving food rules or communication etiquette with grace and poise.
