How should I address somebody at my shower when I cant remember their name??

I am really forgetful with names, and my FMIL has invited a bunch of people to my shower that I have met only once or twice. What should I do when I open a gift from "aunt so-and-so" and I dont know who she is?? Has anybody else been in this situation or have any good ideas on how to handle this?

Re: How should I address somebody at my shower when I cant remember their name??

honestly...you can say this is from aunt X...where is she?

I had problems locating people and where there were and I knew everyone pretty well...and I said that a few times...

do you fave a FSIL that can help you out or someone on fhs sides that could?

Re: How should I address somebody at my shower when I cant remember their name??

say "this is from......" please raise your hand". lol, i have the SAME problem, i met some people once or twice & i don't know whos who lol!!!!!!

Re: How should I address somebody at my shower when I cant remember their name??

My FMIL is inviting 26, yes twenty-six people that I nor my FH have NEVER met (not family but friends of hers and their grown children). Doesn't that take nerve? Its a shower, not a "invite everyone you've ever met in your whole life" party. I mean what did this woman do, take out a want ad? Anyway, you can imagine what a difficult time I will have.

Message edited 6/11/2002 9:42:01 AM.

Re: How should I address somebody at my shower when I cant remember their name??

I am so happy to read this! I have been so worried about this same thing. I don't know or have only met fh aunts/cousins once or twice. I just went to my now sister-in-laws shower and she remembered everyone! I was so scared that when it is my turn I will forget who is who. I think I am gonna make a family tree before hand and study study study!

Re: How should I address somebody at my shower when I cant remember their name??

This works like a charm - "Will Aunt so-and-so please raise your hand so everyone knows who you are."

Re: How should I address somebody at my shower when I cant remember their name??

I went to a shower where evveryone was given a carnation corsage and on it was a little card on which you wrote your name and how you were related to the bride or groom. It was great because you knew who you were talking to and people did not have to continually explain who they were.

Re: How should I address somebody at my shower when I cant remember their name??

Thanks ladies for the tips, I will try it out. I am also going to ask my FMIL to re-introduce me to everyone. Unfortunately my FH doesnt have any sisters to help out.

ps - taraalissa good luck with the 26 unknown people...I only have to worry about maybe half of that, I feel for you...

Taraalissa

Think GIFTS! That's the only way to accept your FMIL inviting everybody and the kitchen sink!

Re: Taraalissa

I am thinking gifts! Unfortunately, these people are mostly originally from another country (I won't say which one so as not to offend anyone on this board) where they are not known for having good taste. Oh, and they are not only unfamiliar with the concept of a shower, but of a registry too, so they will probaly just get me stuff they pick themselves, and I doubt it will be anything nice. I feel awful saying this, but its true.

Re: How should I address somebody at my shower when I cant remember their name??

dcbride's idea is great. Debbie's also although I would still try to enlist someone who knows everyone that you don't to be on hand to direct your gaze generally in the right direction. I didn't know only 2 people at my shower (both my hubby's cousins) but it was definitely uncomfortable to not know where to look when I announced who it was from. Of course, they had never met me either so they understood. But when you're in the spotlight everything seems magnified. If all else fails, just go through the uncomfortable feelings with a jovial attitude. They wouldn't come if they didn't want to so it's a nice chance to get to meet them before your wedding. It was worse in the receiving line when I was staring at someone, clueless as the who they were and elbowing my hubby at the same time to introduce me (while he was being talked to by 3 other people also)...I'm so glad I knew 98% of the people at my wedding.

Best wishes