On Saturday, the Chevy Chase women’s boutique Harriet Kassman hosted author Anna Post, great-granddaughter of etiquette icon Emily Post, for a signing of her book, Emily Post’s Wedding Parties: Smart Ideas for Stylish Parties. Kassman, an icon in her own right among Washington’s stylish set, held court in her spacious new bridal salon, which stocks rows of gowns by designers including Badgley Mischka, Reem Acra, and Anne Barge.

Post, in a fabulously ladylike (and appropriate, natch) black pencil shirt, cranberry silk top, and round-toe suede pumps, greeted admirers and fielded questions: Is it appropriate to ask for money in lieu of gifts? (Actually, yes!) What does she think of invitation services such as Evite.com? (Great for all occasions except weddings.)

Guests, brides-to-be, and a smattering of men sipped Champagne and sampled mini-cupcakes from Bethesda’s Just Cakes. Chef Stephen Scholz knew just what to say to the women eyeing his confections: “They’re little, which means they don’t have any calories.”

Sometimes a little white lie is the most appropriate thing after all.

Have you gotten a chance to read Anna Post's new book yet? Head to the comments section to let us—and other readers—know what you thought. 

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