Happy Wednesday, folks!
Today I wanted to break from my typical what I wore/what I did fair to offer a brief etiquette lesson. We all find ourselves in social situations where we may be meeting new people and/or reconnecting with old. Behold 5 questions that are on my pet peeve list…and are undoubtedly on the short list of many of you out there. Without further ado..
1. Do you remember me?
This one might grind my gears the most. As a young industry aspirant, I remember seeing uber famous celebrity stylist Phillip Bloch at a party. I’d met him before during Fashion Week, and asked him if he remembered me. After some hesitation, he said no, then added, “Don’t ever ask someone that. It just makes them feel bad if they haven’t. Instead, kick it off with, ‘remember we met at so and so…’” I’ve always taken his advice to heart in my interactions and hope you guys do the same.
I meet loads and loads and loads of people at Cocktails with Claire, networking events, parties…sometimes I remember, sometimes I don’t. Don’t make me feel bad by getting offended or saying “We met like 5 times.” Just jog my memory and say, “Nice to See you again!” Maybe understand that sometimes people are busy or have other things that might be weighing on their mind. Give ’em a break! And just say, “We met at…” and keep the conversation flowing.
2. Is that your real…?
I think anyone would find this offensive. If someone has enhanced hair, butt, boobs, whatever…they got it because they want it to look natural. If you are close friends, you can ask if someone’s boobs are real. Complete stranger? Offensive and honestly none of your beeswax!
3. Are you pregnant ?
Don’t congratulate someone on their bundle of joy until they spill the beans. They might have a food baby vs. a real baby! And if you make the mistake of congratulating them on their rotund belly, you’re just calling them fat. HUGE no no.
4. How much do you make?
This was a popular question I received whilst in Lagos, Nigeria, but I’ll chalk that up to cultural differences. Unless I’m listed on Forbes, how much I report on my tax returns is again, classified info. How about you’ll know when I make the Forbes list? Sounds like a plan!
5. How old are you?
We all know a lady never tells. And age ain’t nothing but a number! You’re only as old as you feel (as you age).
Other potential additions to this list would be, “Why are you single?” and/or “Why Aren’t you Married yet?” The answers to both: NUNYA!
That does it!
What do you think?
Love & Light,
