To ask how to communicate with someone when you don't speak the same language

[Tigerpaws57]

My daughter's lovely partner is from a different european country. He speaks perfect English so communication is never a problem. His dad is coming to the uk for a two week visit next month and I feel we should really invite him to our home for a meal or something. However , his dad does not speak any english and we can not speak his language. Obviously dds partner will be there to interpret for both sides but it all sounds so awkward! Anyone else been in this situation? Any tips?

Food, beer, sign language and smiles.

Try to learn a couple of phrases in his language; hello, welcome, thank you. And point a lot.

It'll be fine, don't overthink it!
Ask your DD's-partner how to say "hello, welcome, yes, no, good night", ask if there are any social faux pas to avoid, any dietary issues, what you can do to make 'Dad' feel welcome.
On the night take your time, look at 'Dad' when you are speaking, wait for the answer. Make eye contact, smile a lot.

Get out the baby photos!

Remember that it's the tone that people understand first. So chat away in a jolly voice.

I married a European, I don't speak his language, although I'm learning, and my MIL doesn't speak English. We speak slowly, use gestures and my husband, BIL and FIL all speak both so translate. It's generally easier at home rather than out and about.
I still have fear when it's just us though, but I'm a nervy sort anyway.

It's lovely that you want to invite him over, so don't worry too much.

A few words - hello, thank you, please would help.
Smiling and sign language help.
Good food and a genuinely warm welcome. It will be fine.

Pointing, smiling, waving. A few key phrases.

You say your dd's partner is lovely, so most likely his dad is as well. It will be fine!

Yes to family photos, and you can learn a few words (sister brother aunt uncle etc) so you can point, explain and name who is in the pics.
Board or card games might be good, again you can get by with numbers / gestures and possibly you'll have a game in common so it's a good starting point
With any luck he'll be keen to listen to what you call things e.g. During a meal and will reciprocate by telling you his words. Relax, it will be fun! I've stayed in my husbands family's house for days, where no-one speaks English but we muddled along and communicating was the fun bit!