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Subtle body language -

Start tidying up by collecting glasses, plates, or trash. This non-verbal cue shows that the event is wrapping up without directly asking them to leave.

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Mention the time -

Casually say, "Wow, it's already past 11!" This gently reminds guests of how late it's getting and signals that the evening should come to an end.

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Switch the atmosphere -

Dim the lights to create an environment that screams "party's over!" This naturally encourages guests to wind down their conversations and prepare to leave.

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Thank them for coming -

Express gratitude by saying, "It's been so wonderful having you over tonight. I'm so glad we got to spend time together!" 

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Talk about your schedule -

Mention an early morning or busy day ahead: "I have to be up early tomorrow, so I'll need to start winding down soon."

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Announce cleanup plans -

Say, "I think I'm going to start tidying up," while beginning to clean. This signals the event is ending and nudges guests to wrap up their visit.

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Set an end time -

When inviting guests, say, "Let's meet from 6pm to 10pm!" During the event, remind them about the planned end time to manage expectations for departure.

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Offer a final snack -

Ask, "Would anyone like one last snack before we finish up?" The phrase "last" subtly indicates the evening is concluding.

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Change the topic to goodbye -

Bring up how much fun you’ve had: "This was such a great evening. Let's plan to do it again soon!" This transitions conversations toward departure.

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Mention your wind-down routine -

Say, "I'm about to get into my pajamas soon!" This lighthearted remark makes it clear that the night is over without making guests feel unwelcome.

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Blame an upcoming commitment -

Mention an appointment or task: "I have a busy day tomorrow, so I need to start wrapping up." This provides a polite excuse to end the evening.

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Blame the kids and pets -

Say, "I need to get the kids ready for bed" or "The dog needs his walk before bedtime." This adds urgency without directly asking guests to leave.

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Use humor -

Joke, "I love you guys, but I need my beauty sleep!" This keeps the tone friendly while still communicating that it's time to leave.

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Turn down the music -

Lowering the volume creates a less lively atmosphere, signaling that the fun is winding down without needing to say anything directly.

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Stand up -

Physically stand to signal the event is wrapping up. Your posture can subtly communicate that it's time for guests to prepare to leave.

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Say it's time for bed -

Be honest and polite: "I've had such a great time tonight, but I think I'm ready to call it a night."

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Offer their coat -

Hand them their coat or belongings with a smile: "Let me grab your things for you!" This creates a natural segue for their departure.

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Encourage a follow-up -

Say, "Let's plan another get-together soon!" Redirecting the focus to a future event can signal the current one is ending without sounding abrupt.

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Announce last call -

Say, "Alright, I think this is the last round before we wrap up for the night!" This sets a clear end point for the gathering.

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Bring the event to a natural end -

Wrap up any games or activities with, "Alright, let's finish this last game before calling it a night." This gives a clear endpoint for the evening.

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Turn off unnecessary lights -

Start turning off lights in unused areas of your home. This creates a visual cue that the event is over without needing to say much.

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Blame noise restrictions -

If it's late, mention quiet hours: "It's getting late, and I don't want to disturb the neighbors." This gives a logical reason to end the night.

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State the party is over -

Gently say, "I think we're going to wrap up for tonight. Thank you so much for coming!" This straightforward approach works well in casual settings.

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Order a ride or call a cab -

"Can I help you call a cab or get to your car?" Offering assistance with their departure makes the gesture polite and thoughtful.

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Make it about safety -

Say, "It's late, and I want to make sure you get home safely." This shows care for your guests while encouraging them, politely, to leave.

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Start saying goodbye individually -

Walk each person to the door, thanking them personally: "Goodnight! It was wonderful to see you. Let's catch up again soon!"

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Be honest but polite -

If needed, say, "I've had a great time tonight, but it's time to wrap things up. Thank you so much for coming!" This ensures clarity.

Sources: (Best Life Online) (Mumsnet) (The Cut) 

See also: Top tips for hosting like a true professional

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