Scrap guests

Brazilians like to party, no doubt. In December I had to prove it numerically. There were many invitations: meetings between friends, professional meeting year-end, get togethers, cocktails for the launching of books, products ... The invitations were piled on my desk and, of course, was impossible to have a presence in all events. For each call received an honest answer confirmation or notice of absence.

RSVP (Répondez s'il vous plaît) or please confirm that is printed at the end of many calls, unnoticed by most people. Only those who make or receive events often at home know how important a return confirmation. This is a matter of education, respect. It turns out that we Brazilians, stripped, we believe that label is a thing of the past, it's OK to arrive at the last minute where they eat 6 to 20 eat. But not so.

Worse than not to return is to confirm the presence, say yes just to please or be "political." "I'll be there," this is the response of many to hear the voice of the girl responsible for the follow-up - that last phone call to check who's going. Hard to say no? But if any is necessary. Being honest is part of good education, and only helps to round out the event.

Nor is to say that will not then appear with the whole family at the wedding. Ideally, if you change your mind, let me know. Who is organizing the event - is a small family celebration, a big wedding or business meeting, releasing more energy, plan everything months in care of every detail with the utmost care. And this same respect should be returned by the guests. Unable to provide a forum for 120 people and only 60 attend. And that's the reality in Brazil, especially when it comes to business events.

Therefore, I include in my wishes for 2009 that sincerity, and etiquette and good manners back to be a constant in human relationships. It is better for everyone. And nothing to feel guilty for not going to the party's best friend or brother. If it was not possible, treat the subject with candor and elegance. Notify will not advance and the day of the festival, send beautiful flowers. You'll feel better and your host will be very grateful.