My partner and I were recently invited as guests to a fairly prestigious event ($150/ticket) by someone we know. We aren't particularly close to this person, but would like to keep a relationship. Neither of us are very interested or comfortable at this type of event, but the offer seems very generous.
How can we politely turn this down?
**if it clarifies, they were our real estate agent
As far as I know, the standard polite way to turn down an invitation is to pretend you have a scheduling conflict.
Oh, that sounds lovely, but we have other plans that night so we won't be able to make it. Thanks for the invitation though!
Of course you would presumably be lying about having other plans... that shouldn't be a problem if you're okay with it. It's one of those little "white lies" people tell to smooth over social interaction, and the person inviting you is unlikely to inquire about the details, especially if this is happening in written communication rather than a face-to-face conversation.
If both of you are not interested in the event, just say so. Mention that you are not really into that kind of event, but would love to come if it were a "insert some event here". Try to find an event that both you and your agent has similar interest.
Oh, we are not a big fan of music concert, sorry. But I hear you are a big fan of "the Cats" (or whatever). Are you free next week? We would love to watch them together with you!
By inviting you, it is most likely that your agent might be trying to improve relationship with you. You might want to reconsider turning down the invitation for the relationship sake, if you really want to improve your relationship. However, do not feel obliged to accept, if you really want to keep him at your arm's length.
He might not putting too much hope if he's really just an acquaintance, and if he is offended by your decline, you really want to reconsider keeping relationship with him.
