SOUVENIRS.
BRIDESMAIDS. These are given by the bride to her bridesmaids a few days before the wedding, and take the form of fans or jewelry of some kind that may be worn at the wedding.
A good time to present them is when the bride gives a farewell dinner or luncheon to her bridesmaids.
Failing this, they may be sent a few days
before the wedding.
The souvenirs should, of course, be all the
same in value and in style.
USHERS. The souvenirs given by the groom to the ushers usually take the form of scarf-pins or cuff-buttons. Sometimes the groom also gives the ushers neckties and gloves.
A good time for their distribution is at the farewell bachelor dinner.
SPONSORS. Only relatives and near friends should be asked to act as sponsors at a christening. Two women and one man are asked as sponsors for a girl, and one woman and two men for a boy, though one man and one woman are sufficient in either case.
These may be invited by note or personal call to act as sponsors, and should answer by note or personal call.
A few days before the ceremony the sponsor should send a christening gift addressed to the child, and the giver's card, with a suitable sentiment written on it, should be sent with the gift.
A man may give some article of silver, and, if a wealthy relative, a bank-book for money deposited in the child's name.
A woman may present the child with a garment, a carriage, a cradle, or some similar article.
It is in good taste for the sponsors to call immediately on the parents, to send flowers to the mother, and to show that they are pleased with the compliment.
The godfather at the ceremony assents to the vows, and later, at the drinking of the wine, should propose both the health of the child and that of its mother.
SPOON. The spoon should never be in the cup while
drinking, but should be left in the saucer.
It is used in eating grapefruit, fruit salads,
small and large fruit (when served with
cream), puddings, jellies, porridges, preserves,
and boiled eggs.
SR, The letters SR. (abbreviation for Senior) are
sometimes added to a woman's name on her
card when her son has the same name as
his father, and it is necessary to distinguish
between the cards of the daughter-in-law and
the mother-in-law.
If both become widows, and yet wish to retain their husbands' Christian names, the daughter-in-law would add Jr. on her cards.
STAG PARTIES. A party composed of men exclusively is sometimes so designated. They are usually informal in character, but may be as elaborate in detail as desired.
DRESS. The Tuxedo coat and black tie is worn, unless at a formal stag party, when evening dress is appropriate.
STATE, SECRETARY OF-HOW ADDRESSED. An official letter begins: Sir, and ends: I have, sir, the honor to remain your most obedient servant.
A social letter begins: My dear Mr. Wilson,
and ends: I have the honor to remain most
sincerely yours.
The address on the envelope is: Hon. John
J. Wilson, Secretary of State.