How can we avoid staying close to a friend with strong perfume without being considered rude?

I would just be politely honest with them. If they are “friends” they will understand.

I have never really tried to talk to them for I am afraid that they might get offended. So usually I would find whatever excuses I could make to change chairs or tables with others, going to rest room even going home earlier.

If you tell them that you’re allergic to perfume, it shouldn’t offend anyone. Just say that you love their perfume, but it triggers an allergic reaction…

Always have coffee beans around. Cause it will knock the sense of smell

If I were your friend, I’d be much more upset by you always avoiding me than I would be by a conversation about chemical sensitivities.

I have a terrible time with perfumed anything. I hold my breath to go down the laundry detergent aisle (and have to buy “free & clear” detergent), and avoid people who use too much perfume or cologne like the plague.
Due to how irritating I find perfumes I’m a bit of a jerk about it, and its not uncommon for me to tell a stranger they reek, or tell them they smell like a cheap french wh0re. If I’m feeling polite I tell people that they used way too much smelly crap and its giving me a headache, please go away.

Thats a good idea..

And that is what I learned today. I will surely tell them honestly about my sensitiveness. Thank you Pumpking :)

And that is what I learned today. I will surely tell them honestly about my sensitiveness. Thank you Pumpking :)

Please don’t be confused by my temporary October nickname, Sri; I’m still Hayyim, lol!