We've all been on the receiving end of a no-show, and yes, it can be very irritating. In this instance, the mother claims she is out of pocket to the tune of about sixteen quid. In fact, she would have been paying that amount one way or the other, so technically she's not really out of pocket. But that would spoil her bid for revenge, I suspect.
There's no getting away from the etiquette issue here - the parents of the no-show boy should have made every effort to tell the host parents that their child wouldn't be able to make it; especially as they had already RSVP'd yes. They say they didn't have contact details, but hmmmm......finding that a little hard to believe. You're telling me that you didn't know anyone at school who might have had their telephone number?
But when you host a party, and estimate the numbers based on responses, there is always someone who doesn't show up. You're either left with far too much food, or, as in this case, a spot on the dry ski slopes paid for in vain. Isn't that the inherent risk of throwing a bash? Surely if you're that bothered about being "out of pocket" you should minimize your losses and have a party at home.
I can just see next year's invitation -
"Please join Freddie as he celebrates his 6th birthday at Such and Such zoo. Please RSVP by no later than next Friday. Oh, and please sign below:
I, the undersigned, as a confirmed guest at Freddie's 6th birthday party, undertake to show up at said party. On the occasion that I do not attend, and fail to give 48 hours' notice of this change, I will reimburse Freddie's parents (name and name) of the full cost of my participation in the event, including cake, ice cream and goodie bag."
I can see that poor kid not having too many friends in the future.
