Article: If you simply want to get the guests out of your home but don’t mind spending more time together, you can suggest going somewhere else. For instance, say “Let’s grab a drink at Joey’s bar,” or “Who wants to go bowling?” Your friends are likely to toss around suggestions until you all agree on the next destination. If you don’t want to move to the next location, say something like, “I heard the new bar around the corner has amazing drink specials on Thursdays,” or “Cheers is a great place for a nightcap.” Hopefully your guests will take the hint and agree to move the party elsewhere. When you’re ready to call it a night, say something like, “Wow, I’ve kept you here half the night! Why don’t I clean up while you all head home for some rest?” or “Gosh, you’ve been held hostage here for hours! I’m sure you must be exhausted and ready to go home.” They’re unlikely to argue with you or insist they stay longer, so you’ll have your home to yourself again in no time. Make a show of looking at your watch and being shocked by the time. You could say, “Oh my goodness! It’s after midnight!” or “Wow, I had no idea six hours had passed!” This should cue your friends that it’s time to wrap up the evening. Reminding people that you have other responsibilities or commitments can get them to move along. Say something like, “I still need to do a load of wash before turning in,” or “My day is jam-packed tomorrow, so I need to get some rest.” Hopefully, they’ll take the hint and decide to hit the road. If one of your close friends is in attendance, you can ask for their help to get your guests to leave. Speak to them privately and ask them to leave a certain time. When that time comes, your friend can stand up, stretch, and announce they’re heading out for the evening. Usually, your other guests will get the hint and follow suit. Your friend could say, “What a lovely evening! It’s getting late, though, so it’s time for me to go.” Yawning will signify that you’re tired and ready to wrap up the evening. This hint works especially well if it’s late at night, though it won’t be convincing in the middle of the day. You can also act drowsy or distracted, which can signify to your guests that it’s time for them to make their exit. Clear the table or head to the kitchen to take care of the dishes. You could also turn off the music, blow out the candles, or turn off lights in rooms that aren’t being used. All these things will tip off your guests that the evening has come to an end. If you feel comfortable telling this kind of white lie, it can be very effective. Keep it as a last resort though, as being upfront is a better approach. Most people despise being sick, so they’ll be likely to exit quickly to avoid catching a bug. You could say, “I think I’m getting sick,” or “I’m actually not feeling well. Do you mind if we resume this another time?”
What is a summary of what this article is about?
Suggest moving the party to another location. Pretend they’re the ones that are ready to leave. Mention the time in a surprised manner. Inform your friends that you’ve got a busy schedule. Ask a close friend to help you out. Yawn repeatedly. Busy yourself with end-of-the-night tasks. Feign sickness such as a headache or stomachache.