I'm planning a dinner party and want it to be adults only. How can I say this without offending friends who have children?
Parents should assume that unless it's an afternoon barbecue or the equivalent, kids aren't invited, says Kim Izzo, author of The Fabulous Girl's Guide to Decorum. But just to be clear, here's how to say that it's a dinner party, not a playdate. Izzo suggests saying, "I'm hosting a dinner party and I'd like to invite you and Jeff. I hope I've given you enough time to find a babysitter." If you're sending an invitation or Evite, you can write: "You and Jeff are invited for a glamorous evening of dinner and cocktails." Be sure to extend the invitation two weeks in advance to allow time to find child care. If a friend asks if she can bring her child, be prepared to say no gently. Try, "Actually, this won't be a great party for children. But if you do find a sitter, I'd love to see you there."
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