Newport Manners + Etiquette: Wedding Gift Etiquette

Yes, send them all cards. Go ahead with what could be an adventure of a lifetime. After all, you're young, aren't married–or even engaged–so take your trip in good conscience. The time when your boyfriend will really need you is after all the commotion and fanfare of his father's funeral has settled down and he is left with the reality that his father is dead. Then you can spend quality time with him asking him questions about his father and encouraging him to tell you about the good times they shared together. Later is when he'll need you most to be a good listener.  ~Didi

 

I am ashamed to say I have not written one thank-you card to anyone that sent flowers, attended the service, gave money toward the final expenses, etc. for a more than dear friend. She passed a year and a half ago. I am and have been terribly grief-stricken.

 

We shared each other's lives for about 35 years.

 

I think I am ready to start the acknowledgement process. Do you have any suggestions? I know it's never too late to acknowledge someone's kindnesses and/or gifts. I need something to say that is quick, short, to the point, and as painless as possible.

 

In addition, I want to reach out to her family and just say something like, 'glad we're family.'  

 

This task must be a 'less is more' activity and I'm reaching out to you for guidance and in a sense–support.  

 

I am the executrix of her estate and as such am responsible for her final expenses. She has family and they were very close. Relationships, as you know, can be difficult. W.H., Providence

 

Dear W.H.,