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This week on Jenny Says So, Jenny tackles a question from a listener, Guilt About Gifts in Georgia, who’s unsure about the etiquette of bringing gifts when visiting someone’s home. From housewarming parties to casual get-togethers, they wonder when a gift is expected—or if it’s even necessary.
Hi Jenny! I have a question about gifts for you. What’s your take on bringing “gifts” to someone’s house when you go over? Housewarming, hanging out, coming to visit, parties, etc. Do you bring a gift? If so, what do you bring? How do you determine when it’s appropriate or not? Is it different based on who it is? For example, Friends, family, neighbors, colleagues, acquaintances, strangers? I didn’t grow up in a house with much gift giving, so I always felt like I never learned the “rules” around that stuff. Any help would be appreciated! Signed, Guilt About Gifts in GeorgiaJenny breaks down the nuances of guest gifts, reassuring listeners that while a small token of appreciation is always thoughtful, showing up empty-handed is perfectly fine, especially if the host insists. The key is understanding context, relationships, and cultural expectations rather than following rigid rules.
Jenny shares practical insights on navigating gift-giving with confidence, emphasizing that a simple gesture—like bringing dessert, a bottle of wine, or even just asking if the host needs anything—can go a long way. She also explores how different cultures view guest gifts, the role of re-gifting, and why assuming the best intentions in social interactions helps create a more welcoming environment. If you’ve ever stressed about whether to bring a gift, this episode will help you approach it with ease and authenticity.
Learn more about Jenny Says So: https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/jenny-says-so-podcast
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In this heartfelt episode of Jenny Says So, Jenny tackles a listener’s question about how to support a close friend who lost everything in a devastating wildfire.
Hi Jenny, I have a close friend who recently had to evacuate their home due to a fire and sadly lost everything. I live far away, so I’m not sure how to best support them from here. I also don’t want to say the wrong thing and accidentally add to their pain. What’s the most thoughtful way to help and show I care during such a devastating time? Signed, Far Away Friend in FloridaFrom afar, it can be difficult to know what to say or do, but Jenny introduces the VASE method—Validate, Acknowledge, Support, and Express—as a thoughtful approach to providing comfort and care. She offers compassionate advice on validating the enormity of your loved one’s loss, acknowledging their pain, and offering practical and emotional support without overstepping boundaries.
Listeners will come away with actionable tips for helping friends in crisis, such as offering financial assistance, coordinating logistical help, or simply reaching out with heartfelt words of love and connection. Jenny emphasizes that even small gestures can have a profound impact during times of overwhelming grief. Whether you’re near or far, this episode will inspire you to show up with kindness and care for the people who matter most.
To support people who have lost their homes in the wildfire, please check out this link!
To create a free registry to help people start over again, check out the registry and essential items bundles here: https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/registry
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In this episode of Jenny Says So, modern-day etiquette expert Jenny tackles a relatable question from "Don't Want to Feel Weird in Wyoming" about navigating greetings and introductions in mixed social and professional settings. Should you go for a handshake, a hug, or something else entirely? Jenny breaks down how to read the room, establish comfort for everyone, and avoid awkward moments with a thoughtful approach to personal boundaries and cultural norms.
We'd love to know what you think about this episode! Have a question for Jenny? Head to the link and let us know. All questions are totally anonymous.
https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/jenny-says-so-podcast
Thank you to Aunt Jane for providing the voice over work, and the theme song is provided by simonarmitage, Pond5.
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In this episode of Jenny Says So, modern-day etiquette expert Jenny tackles a heartfelt question from "No Longer a Hugger in New York." Jenny explores how to navigate shifting personal boundaries, particularly when it comes to physical greetings like hugs. She shares practical advice on communicating changes with warmth and honesty, while also addressing the reactions of friends who might struggle to adapt. With empathy and curiosity, Jenny guides listeners on how to maintain meaningful relationships while honoring their own comfort and autonomy.
We'd love to know what you think about this episode! Have a question for Jenny? Head to the link and let us know. All questions are totally anonymous.
https://www.freshstartsregistry.com/jenny-says-so-podcast
Thank you to Taylor for providing the voice over work, and the theme song is provided by simonarmitage, Pond5.
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Welcome to Jenny Says So—the podcast where modern etiquette meets real life. I’m Jenny, a modern-day etiquette expert, former wedding officiant & professional, and co-founder of the first registry platform for divorce support. With 20 years of studying religion and communities under my belt, and as the creator of the VASE Method of communication I have a lot of opinions about what etiquette is and what it should be. I’ve been featured in Time Magazine, The New York Times, Real Simple, and more talking about everything from the least worst way to cancel your wedding to gifting in awkward circumstances.
My superpower? Knowing when to leave the party—and I’m here to answer all your questions about boundaries, manners, and navigating life as a human in this wild world. Each week, I’ll tackle one of your questions and break it down in a way that’s approachable, not stressful, because etiquette doesn’t have to be archaic or stuffy. Let’s leave the outdated rules behind and redefine how we connect. Follow Jenny Says So on your favorite podcast platform, and head to FreshStartsRegistry.com/JennySaysSo to send your questions (they can be anonymous!) —I can’t wait to hear from you!
