Estranged parents

It’s best to have someone trusted who knows them or has a picture so they can quietly escort them away. It’s best if it’s hired security, but a big intimidating friend can come in handy. Just a simple “I’m sorry, you’re not on the guest list, you need to leave.”

Most venues require you to rent security. You can give them instructions as necessary to turn away people who are not invited. Have a picture of them that you can give to security. Beyond that, there’s nothing you can do.


Do not ask guests to work at any time doing this. That takes away from being able to be a guest. Plus there are often legal issues involved. Also, not everyone who shows up unannounced (or gets overly drunk or otherwise rowdy needing to leave via security) is courteous and cooperative to follow instructions. Especially since they already know they are not welcome and don’t care.