DEAR MISS MANNERS: I received an invitation to a 60th wedding anniversary party and it states: “ABSOLUTELY NO GIFTS.”

What can I do for the lovely couple, with whom I have been friends for many, many years? I really want to give them something!!!

GENTLE READER: Then give them something priceless: a letter of appreciation about them and their friendship.

DEAR MISS MANNERS: I’ve been collecting silver flatware in various patterns when I see pieces at really great prices. I also love to entertain, both casually and semi-formally. In both cases, I love to mix up the place settings with all of my different patterns.

At this point, I’ve donated all my stainless steel flatware and only use the real silver.

Is it gauche for me to be using all these silver patterns together? My china is also a

See Full Page