I wouldn't worry too much about it.

People that are that clueless about being some place when they said they would be. Or showing up hours late are not exactly the kind of people that would be upset if someone said they were not feeling well and wanted a clean house before they did a tour.

And I hate to say it, but if you did offend them (which I truly don't think you did) so what? It's not going to damage the acquaintance.

They might be the kind of people that think it's rude not to ask to see someones house.

I agree. Bet they never gave it a second thought. I think, based on what you say, they may be bit oblivious to basic etiquette.

She probably thought she was flattering you with a request for a tour and perhaps was more interested because her husband did the work.

Don't give it another thought. I'm sure they haven't.

As an aside, I have never understood this "home tour" mentality. Always a little shocked when I go to someone's home for the first time and they want to give me "the tour" . What is that about?

Exception being an open house event for people who have bought or renovated a new home.

I think it all depends on how you said it!

If you're worried that you've upset them, esp. the wife, whose clothes shop you patronize, then at some point, invite her over and see the house "at its best". Probably she wants to see her husband's handiwork. Maybe he did some particular job in your house that he wants her to see.

I'm one who likes touring other people's houses, mainly because I like to see how they've decorated so if someone wants to show off their house, count me in on the ooohing and ahhhing. As chase says, this normally happens at an event for people who have bought or renovated a new home.

But I also think it's the home owner's right to not offer a tour, or to decline if they are asked for one. I think the difference here is that I'm assuming she wants to see her husband's work, which is why I suggest inviting her back at a later date.

Thanks everyone. I am going to invite her back.

Once was out for the evening with my MIL and one of her friends. My husband was away for the weekend, and by the time they were dropping me off, it was after 11. This friend of MIL's -- who was someone I didn't even know well, demanded a tour of the house. I was pretty 'mousy' back then and rarely stood up for myself--but I wasn't about to give the woman a tour at that hour of the night. Personally, I thought it was rude of HER to ask.

I don't think you did anything wrong, and honestly, I doubt I'd invite her for a 'tour' unless you and she usually socialize anyway. Nice if you do, but you certainly shouldn't feel obligated to cave to someone who is that rude.

Chase,

I agree. Why do people do tours? I am only in my 30's. But, my entire life I always liked going to the homes that had bedrooms on one floor or in a private part of the house.

I don't like the newer styles where there is a master close to the entertaining area.

I keep my home open to all. I don't mind when friends are here and they have kids they put down in our bedrooms. I never think twice about that.

But, when people come by I never would suggest touring them through our home.

Just my opinion.

I guess I was just afraid of hurting someone's feelings. I have a bad habit of questioning myself even though I was polite.

I don't have a problem with showing someone my home when I invite them over, and everything is in order. I don't volunteer "showings" but if they ask, it's alright with me.

I do take issue to people who drop-in unannounced who expect you to give guided tours.

Rest easy. Your house. Your castle. Your call. Anyone with a brain would understand or, even if they didn't, (to hell with 'em if they didn't!) would acquiesce instantly. You're fine.

I have a problem with people who drop in unannounced for any reason. Ever get one of the calls, "we dropped by but you weren't home"? My reply, "were we supposed to stay home in case you dropped by unannounced"? OR, we knocked but you didn't answer the door. Yeh, I was in the shower!
Give me a break.