Know Your Limits

The first rule of thumb, says entertaining expert Dana Christine, is to know the limits of your home and don't invite more guests than you or the house can accommodate. If children are on the guest list, determine if you'll need to line up a babysitter if adult-only outings are on the schedule; if pets will be visiting as well, either make it clear that they're welcome in the house or offer up contact info for local kennels.
Most importantly, Christine says to establish arrival and departure dates and avoid inviting friends and family for an open-ended stay. \"If you can't handle guests for more than a week, don't be shy about setting limits. This puts everyone on the same page and avoids surprises.\"