Whether the end of a small gathering, or the end of a party, there comes a time in many hosts' experience when the party is over, and it's time to make it clear to a guest in a tactful way. Although you may give subtle clues, sometimes certain guests need to be told more directly that it's time to leave.
Why don't all guests leave at the appropriate time? Maybe the guests are having such a great time, are engaged in an exciting conversation or are late-night people. It could be that the guests don't take hints well. Here are some ways to end the party tactfully and to make it clear that it's been fun and everyone should leave now.
One of the biggest hints is the type of beverage you serve. When you stop opening bottles of wine and start brewing coffee, guests are more likely to realize that they need to perk up for their trip home. Also cleaning up is a sign for guests to leave. You don't have to start washing dishes in front of them, but you can offer them leftovers to take along if you had food at the party.
Turning on the lights, blowing out candles, changing the music and making sure that the first guests to leave circulate and say goodbye can start the ball rolling in the right direction. Discussing your plans for the next day or saying what you need to do in the morning might also let guests know that you need some sleep.
Finally, if a guest just doesn't seem to get the idea, take the guest aside and quietly say that you have to get the house back in order now, and you're so glad he came. Ask where he put his coat and offer to get it for him. Walk with him to the door. If he is the last one there, he should realize it, and getting him assertively, but politely, out the door may be your only option. If he has had several drinks and needs a ride, offer to call a cab or ask another guest to take him home.
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