As an etiquette writer for more than a decade, I really should have known better, but knowing how to politely decline an invitation is hard. And you probably know exactly the type of regret and ...

Now, if you want to decline an invitation to be part of the wedding party — whether a bridesmaid or groomsman — that may be a tougher and more awkward conversation to have, Lowry said.

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.

The Los Angeles Dodgers, fresh off their eighth World Series championship, are reportedly expected to decline an invitation to the White House, should one be extended by President Donald Trump.