Q: I recently flew to my girlfriend’s to celebrate her birthday. Several other friends came too. I ended up paying all of the expenses (they think I am rich because my parents have money) and I feel very taken advantage of. I would like to request they pay me for their share. Is this appropriate?
A; Not only is it appropriate to request they pay you, it was inappropriate of them not to offer to pay you before you ended the special weekend. Most likely, this was an expensive tab and the other girls should have realized that you carrying the whole tab is not right no matter what anyone’s socio-economic status is. They all made a conscious choice to attend the birthday weekend, and it is up to each of them to step up to the plate and pay you their portion of the expense. It would be very appropriate to call or text each of them and tell them exactly what they owe, and perhaps the best way to pay is through Zelle or Venmo, that way you can get your money right away.
For future reference, when you all meet up again for a celebration, perhaps you can come to terms with everyone putting in their equal share upfront to avoid future delay of payment. This seems the logical way to handle a situation that could be avoided before you leave town with all the expenses on your plate.