Life Camp Column: Store Returns From Relatives
by Giving readers an opportunity to ask questions and receive answers. Topics range from relationships, friendships, to in-laws, and children.
Dear Mrs. McVeigh,
During the holidays we had my aunt and uncle stay with us for a few days. I collect porcelain figures, and they sent one to us in the mail as a thank you. Unfortunately it came broken in several pieces. I am debating whether I should tell my aunt that it is broken or not. What is the polite thing to do?
Unsure Gift Receiver
Dear Unsure Gift Receiver,
If the item was shipped directly from the company that your aunt purchased it from, I would call them and get them to replace it. All of the information that they need will be on your packing slip. If they can replace it with the same item, the company gives you good customer service, and you feel good about your aunt ordering from them again, then I would not burden her with the whole scenario. Until it is all resolved, write her a thank you note for the gift, and do not mention anything about the item being broken. If it turns out that the company is a nightmare to work with, then I would at a later date mention it to your aunt.
If it is an item that your aunt shipped to you on her own, you will need to alert her of the damage. Still write her a thank you note for the gift, expressing your appreciation and gratitude – period. There is no need to add something about the item being damaged in the note.
Dear Mrs. McVeigh,
I want to return a gift from my mother-in-law, but I do not want her to know that I am returning it. It is an outfit that she got for me from a very nice department store, is great quality, but is the most hideous thing that I have ever seen. We do not have a great relationship, so I am not sure how to handle it. Thanks.
Signed,
HELP!
Dear HELP!,
If it is an item that she is not likely to notice that you return it, then I would not worry about it. If it ever comes up in conversation, and she questions you about never seeing you wear it, then tell her the item was not flattering on you. You can say that you returned the item, and found something from the same department, and think of her every time you wear it. This should hopefully keep your relationship from straining even further.
Liked it
