DEAR MISS MANNERS: Hypothetically, if no one offers to throw a shower or bachelorette party for a bride-to-be, should she ask for one?

GENTLE READER: If she doesn’t mind seeming pathetic, she can ask for anything, including honors that nobody she knows is inspired to give her otherwise. This does not mean that they need to comply.

Please send your questions to Miss Manners at her website, www.missmanners.com; to her email, [email protected]; or through postal mail to Miss Manners, Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.