My friend is hosting her own birthday party and asking for gifts!

Dear Polite One,

My friend is hosting her own birthday party at a restaurant, expects us to buy our own dinner, drinks, and give a gift. She prefers gift cards. She actually listed her registries on the invitation. How do I tell her that this is tacky and rude?

Worried Friend

Dear Worried Friend,

You are correct that it is tacky to ask friends to pay for the parties. Expecting gifts is even worse. Requesting a specific gift is beyond impolite. Yikes! Plus, we never register for birthday parties.

Unfortunately, you could lose your friend by mentioning this to her. Perhaps you might try telling her that you have read that this is impolite and are worried about her reputation. It might help, but probably won't. She doesn't appear to care about what others think.

Sincerely,

The Polite One

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