My girlfriend asked me to go to her parents 35th anniversary dinner. My question is since she invited me do I need to offer to pay for any of the bill? I am not sure if it would be offensive if I did or offensive if I did not.
I think because she invited me it would be in her court. I am not sure though since I pay everytime we go out.
2007-01-31 01:51:12 · 6 answers · asked by orderless1 1 in Society & Culture ➔ Etiquette
If you have a traditional girl (meaning you always pay), then I would say you should suggest that you pay for yourself and your girlfriend. By tradition (although it doesn't seem fair), a guy should always pay for himself and his girlfriend. I wouldn't pay for anyone else though, you are invitied therefore you shouldn't feel obliged to do so. Most likely though, if it is a big event, then the person holding the dinner reservation should pay for everyone.
Just watch other people around you. Usually a waiter will ask about the checks before taking the orders. If other people are saying I am with this group of two and etc, then you should pay for yourself and your gf. If it isn't asked before taking orders, then you shouldn't worry about it because the person holding the party is most likely paying.
If you are really worried about taking enough money. As your gf about how much you should expect to take with you so that you can pay for the two of you. By bringing it up before you go (a few days before) you will know your answer. She will either say, "oh, no I am paying since I asked you."; "don't worry about it, it is free"; or "you should bring this much." (meaning you have to pay for two people)
Good Luck and have a good time!
2007-01-31 02:33:42 · answer #1 · answered by Tonya B 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I don't think you should have to pay. If it is a big do, I am sure all will be pre-arranged, like a wedding. Ask your g-friend what kind of small present you could bring to the party, as a guest it would be in order (if you need ideas, check something like http://www.anniversaryideas.com/35th_Wedding_Anniversary.htm, it will give you some ideas...).
You could also volonteer your help in creating a special photo album with pictures from their time together, or a power point slide show... I am sure the family would enjoy such a happy memory, and thoughtful gifts are always appreciated.
If it is a low key event, without planning, you may offer to pay your bill at the end. Normally, you should be politely and thankfully turned down...
Don't let your g-friend pay... that would be showing to her family that she is not valued... :) it is stupid, but just in case... take a credit card.
2007-01-31 03:20:15 · answer #2 · answered by OneLilithHidesAnother 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Her parents should pay for the dinner. It would be shocking if my friend's parents want me to pay for my share if they invite me to their dinner. If they want to celebrate their happy occasion with friends and family, they should not want their guests to pay to be there.
2007-01-31 14:00:16 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I think you should ask her what she is expecting. At the very least pay for your own and maybe take flowers to her mother.
2007-01-31 16:49:04 · answer #4 · answered by Classy Granny 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
definitely avoid "dinner provided" or anything that implies it's paid for. i think the invitation should focus on people getting together to have dinner, rather than you giving people food. maybe include something about "splitting the check" to drive the point home..... good luck. I've been to birthday gatherings at restaurants where everybody paid for their own meal...unfortunately i cannot remember what the invitations said! I think it was something like "after the show, we'll all go to Bob's Restaurant for dinner!"
2016-05-23 22:39:00 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
You should not pay a dime.Don't do it its her grand parents
2007-01-31 02:19:45 · answer #6 · answered by peg42857 4 · 0⤊ 1⤋