What is the proper etiquette in this situation?

Question

I am walking down the road and I spot someone I have heard of and know about but have never personally met. Do I wave?

This person obviously does not know me or even who I am, but is it still acceptable to wave at them or say hello?

Answer 1

I'm pretty sure they won't take it offensively if you don't acknowledge them, and if it were me, I'd love a friendly smile =]

Answer 2

yeah you can always smile and say hello to anyone. but if you don't its ok too since you have never met them

Answer 3

Hi Giles,

Of course it is all right to wave to someone that you know or have heard of, it is just a friendly gesture.

Answer 4

~~I would wave, smile and say- you don't know me but..... and tell them how you know about them. Most people are friendly and it's nice to be recognized. Worse thing that can happen is the guy's not to friendly and just moves on. What do ya have to lose?~~

Answer 5

According to the Big Book of Etiquette you are NOT supposed to "wave" or "say hello",  Proper etiquette is that you must be "properly" introduced by friends or family, etc.

I know that today many of these rules are simply thrown out the window, but they still stand,  They may seem silly and simple but they are there because some people relish their privacy and prefer that social graces be done properly even in this modern and fast paced society.

Peace & Love :)

Answer 6

It is never impolite to smile and wave.

We have become so fractured as a society, that even friendliness is considered a possible threat.

Answer 7

No problem at all, they are wondering the same as you, if the truth is known!

Answer 8

Yeah, wave....it's nice to know people like you!