Have never gone white tie but as the Earl Marshal is I think the official UK expert on all things ceremonial, (just the guy in charge of small affairs like coronations) if he doesn't do it, it isn't done. Those protocol boys can be more modern than one would imagine, because in the end, you want things up to date, and not criticized for being stuffy.

The white cotton gloves make you feel like you're about to handle rare documents in a university library rather than shake hands anyway. Different cities have differing senses of formality too - I think the Viennese still use white tie for their Opera Ball - but I read that white tie in Washington is now very rare. Can't imagine it going over in the more relaxed western US or Canada.

Besides, one wants to look like a guest, not a waiter. It would be fun to handle something with white kid gloves literally rather than figuratively - but if you have 'em and nobody else does, I don't think it would work. Am enjoying the opinions sent in though. We all have these bridges to cross from time to time. This counsel is learned and has vast experience. These forums are terrific.