A dining out question

[miasmum]

We have been invited to dinner at another couples house. I have been there a few times, as she is my friend, but he and Tim have only met a few times, we go to a quiz with them. I would like to go, but does that leave me duty bound to invite them back?

[Kaz]

It is customary. Either to invite them back or treat them to a meal out somewhere.......

[miasmum]

Next time we go to the quiz, we'll buy their meal then as a thank you

[Ally]

Maybe not duty bound as such, just mannerly, but I've always invited people for dinner if we've been asked to theirs first.

But then I love having people round for a meal.

[Kaz]

Next time we go to the quiz, we'll buy their meal then as a thank you

I'm like Ally and like having people round, but I think that would be fine instead

[miasmum]

Just realised this makes it sound like we have never been invited to a friends for dinner before We have a small circle of friends, all of whom are happy to get together for a take away or a plain and simple spag bol/lasagne etc so no real cooking involved. However, this friend is a fantastic cook, and I wouldn't dream of inviting them back for a take away or a spag bol.

Also our other friends we have known for years, but I am too embarrassed about my lounge and dining room to invite anyone new round nowadays, especially when I think of the beautiful house this couple live in. Think grand designs

One further thought I think there might be two other couples invited, does that make a difference?

[Kaz]

Not really, your return invite 'obligation' (for want of a better word) will be just for them Shell I doubt very much they would mind the décor in your lounge, but I think treating them to a meal out is fine instead

[miasmum]

The decor is ok, it is my furniture and carpet I am ashamed off. All are over 30 years old but Tim is adamant no new stuff whilst we have pets. When Mia goes ( ) he says I have a choice, another cat or a decent house, but not both. I can see this being a tricky one

But regardless of that, the thought of cooking for anyone other than immediate family brings me out in a nervous rash

[Rodo]

Subdued lighting can cover a multitude of secrets! Invite them while it still goes dark early!

[Kaz]

Rodo