Ask Amy: Who Pays for Dinner During a Celebration Invitation?

Amy Dickinson addresses the etiquette of covering the bill when inviting guests to a celebration, sparking wider discussions on social expectations.

A reader inquires about the etiquette of paying for dinner when inviting another couple to join a celebration, sparking a discussion on social expectations.
Amy Dickinson advises that the person extending the invitation typically bears the responsibility of covering the bill, as the guests are invited to partake in the celebration.
The situation leads to a broader conversation on the nuances of dinner invitations and the expectations they may carry.
Readers share their own experiences and suggestions for handling similar situations, including the idea of discussing payment arrangements beforehand.
The column also touches on other topics, such as the benefits of board games for family bonding and the impact of alcohol on personal relationships.