Q. Some friends and I have been discussing the vexed question of vegetarians, and opinions are divided as to whether they should announce this (or any other dietary requirements) when an invitation is given, or wait until they arrive. The former suggests that something special needs to be prepared for them, while the latter could cause a last-minute panic for the host/hostess if nothing suitable was to hand. Perhaps any host/hostess would be wise nowadays to check this when issuing the invitation, but please give us your guidance, dear Mary!
F.W., Siena, Italy
A. I have taken guidance from a much-in-demand vegetarian within my own circle. She is someone who, unusually, manages to carry off this social handicap without it impacting on her popularity. She advises, ‘I believe very firmly that you should never announce it! You wouldn’t expect someone to list any other likes and dislikes before accepting an invitation to dinner, unless they were life-threatening.
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