How to graciously decline an invitation to a social event at a time like this

It's OK to turn down an invitation to a social event if you don't feel comfortable going. — Dreamstime/TNS

Not everyone has decided to cancel or postpone their wedding, birthday party, or baby shower, and for reasons vast and wide. Some are financial – refunds couldn't be negotiated with vendors, for example – and others are personal, with the host having confidence in the ability to throw a safe celebration or a higher risk tolerance.

Regardless, if you receive an invitation, you have a choice to make: to go or not to go? Many events will look significantly different right now, especially those that aren't hosted in a private home. Smaller guest lists, masks, and socially distanced tables are all commonplace. But no matter the setup, it's a pandemic. Everyone's situation is different, and there are countless reasons why you might opt out.