A couple who frequently hosts dinner parties for friends and family is seeking advice from Miss Manners on how to address a friend who often tries to dictate the schedule of their gatherings. Despite receiving compliments on their hosting skills, the friend in question consistently interrupts the flow of the evening by announcing when it is time to move on to the next activity, such as dessert. The hosts find this behavior insulting and wish to address it tactfully without excluding their friend from future events. Miss Manners advises the couple to kindly remind their friend that there is only one director at a dinner party and suggests they filter their feedback through the hosts to avoid confusing other guests. The couple is also encouraged to politely request that their friend refrain from taking over hosting duties, including interfering in the kitchen. By setting boundaries with their friend in a respectful manner, the hosts can ensure that future gatherings run smoothly and everyone can enjoy the evening. Questions for Miss Manners can be submitted through email, the website, or postal mail.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image associated with the presented article. Due to copyright reasons, we are unable to use the original images. However, you can still enjoy the accurate and up-to-date content and information provided.
