To Future Endeavors

I received a call from a dear friend needing immediate help.  She was on her way to a party to say farewell to a colleague. In a panic, she realized she did not have a gift.   She began to wonder if she even needed to give a gift due to receiving the invitation a few days before the party.  The answer is yes and here is why. She accepted the invitation; therefore it is her responsibility to follow appropriate etiquette.

When you accept the invitation to attend an event such as a farewell party, you should:

1. Find out if the person is staying close or moving farther away.
   
   
2. Find out if they are retiring.
   
   
3. Ask if there is a group gift.
   
   
4. Select a gift that is appropriate for the occasion.
   

What gifts are perfect for a farewell?

1. If moving close, anything to make setting up a new residence easier.
   
   
2. If moving farther away, choose items such as gift cards.
   
   
3. If changing jobs, something for the office is always appropriate.
   
   
4. If retiring, a group gift is appropriate.
   

Anytime you accept an invitation to anyone’s home, you should always bring something.  A food item, a bottle of wine or flowers.  Don’t under estimate the power of a nice bouquet of flowers.

Have a question about proper etiquette? Don’t be shy.  Ask me, I am here for you.