If the person you invited for dinner does not show up, it can be disappointing and leave you feeling uncertain about what to do next. Here are some steps to consider in such a situation:
Give them some time: It's possible that there was a miscommunication or an unforeseen circumstance that prevented them from coming on time. Wait for a reasonable amount of time (15-30 minutes) before taking any further action.
Try contacting them: If you have a way to contact the person, such as their phone number or social media, send them a polite message or call them to inquire about their whereabouts. Be understanding and considerate in your message.
Have a backup plan: If the person doesn't respond or can't make it, it's helpful to have a backup plan. Perhaps you can enjoy the meal yourself or invite someone else over if there's someone available at short notice.
Avoid jumping to conclusions: It's easy to feel upset or frustrated, but try not to jump to negative conclusions about the person's intentions. There could be a legitimate reason for their absence.
Be gracious and understanding: If the person contacts you later with an explanation, be gracious and understanding. Life can be unpredictable, and sometimes things don't go as planned.
Consider rescheduling: If the person had a valid reason for not showing up, you might consider rescheduling the dinner for a more suitable time for both of you.
Assess the situation: If this becomes a recurring issue with the same person, it might be worth having a conversation with them to understand what's going on and if there's a deeper problem.
Remember that unexpected things can happen, and people may have genuine reasons for not being able to attend. However, if someone habitually disregards your plans without a valid reason, it might be worth reevaluating the dynamics of your relationship with them. Open communication and understanding are crucial in handling such situations gracefully.